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As a weightlifter, I’m always looking for easy and convenient ways to up my protein intake. After all, protein is essential for healthy exercise and is responsible for things like energy production, muscle growth, and recovery. But after a long day of work and a sweaty two-hour workout session, the last thing I want to do is actually make my protein shake. This is why I’ve recently stocked my ‘fridge with ready-to-drink shakes, like Fairlife’s Core Power Protein Milkshakes ($4), which are the most delicious way to up my protein post-workout. Here’s why I love ’em so much.
Experts in This Article
integrative and functional medicine dietitian based in Elkhorn, Wisconsin
Fairlife, Core Power Chocolate Protein Milkshake — $4.00
Protein: 26 g/bottle
Flavors: 3 (chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry)
Pros:
- Ready to drink
- Contains 26 grams of protein per bottle
- Contains nine essential amino acids
- Low in sugar
- Ultra-filtered and lactose-free
Cons:
- Pricey individually
1. Protein content
Each Fairlife Core Power Protein Milkshake clocks in at a whopping 26 grams of protein per bottle—that’s a lot of protein. Samantha Schleiger, MS, RDN, CD, CLT, ITNCP, an integrative and functional medicine dietitian based in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, notes that while protein consumption will vary from person to person, it’s recommended to aim for 25-35 grams of protein per serving. At 26 grams of protein, the Core Power milkshake is generally considered a reasonable amount for post-workout consumption, she says.
“After an intense workout, especially one that involves weightlifting, your muscles may experience micro-tears and damage,” says Schleiger. “Protein shakes, specifically those containing high-quality protein sources like whey or casein, provide your body with the necessary amino acids to repair and rebuild muscle tissue.” Thankfully, Core Power’s shake contains all nine essential amino acids (aka, the building blocks of protein), as well as electrolytes, vitamin D, and calcium. Because of these benefits, I’ll usually crack open the chocolate shake after my most intensive workouts like leg day, HIIT, or runs. Timing of the post-workout protein intake matters, so I aim to consume this drink within one to two hours after exercise, which Schleiger says can “optimize muscle recovery and growth.”
2. Taste and quality
Fairlife Core Power Protein Milkshakes taste delicious, and the simple flavors are fantastic. They’re so darn flavorful minus the exorbitant amount of sugar; both the chocolate and vanilla flavors contain only 5 grams of sugar, while the strawberry contains 6 grams. And there’s zero chalky texture that often plagues protein shakes. Tbh, it tastes more like a dessert than a supplement.
The quality of these shakes also has to do with the milk, which is always fresh and ultra-filtered. According to the brand’s website, the milk (which comes from high-quality, ethical dairy farms) is quick-chilled before going through the filtration process. The temperature ensures it stays fresh and delicious, while the filtration process leaves the final product with less sugar, more calcium and protein, and—get this—no lactose. Yep. After it’s all filtered, any remaining lactose gets zapped with a lactase enzyme, leaving all of Fairlife’s products lactose-free. So if you have an intolerance or sensitivity, you can sip stress-free.
Fairlife, Core Power Protein Milkshakes Variety (Pack of 6) — $35.00
Protein: 26 g/bottle
3. Convenience
Like I said—the last I think I want to do after the gym is break out the blender and make a mess with my protein powder. Ready-to-drink protein shakes like these already come pre-packaged in a bottle or carton that’s available for immediate consumption. “They require no preparation, mixing, or blending, making them extremely convenient, especially for on-the-go consumption,” says Schleiger. Fairlife Core Power Protein Milkshakes offer the ultimate convenience. I can toss a bottle into my gym bag or grab one on the way home, ensuring I never miss my post-workout nutrition.
Final thoughts
Lactose-free, portable, easy to drink, and flavorful—there’s so much to love about Fairlife’s Core Power Protein Milkshake. Having these shakes in my fridge takes the guesswork out of what ingredients to mix, and makes it that much easier to recover post-workout. Snag a single bottle for $4 or a pack of six for $35. (Pro tip: Get the six-pack—you’ll be glad you did!)
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