Protein Shakes: Keto-Approved Premier Protein Options

Premier Protein shakes are a popular choice for those looking to boost their protein intake, but are they suitable for people following a keto diet? With a range of flavours available, these shakes are marketed as a convenient and tasty way to increase your protein consumption. But how do they fit into a keto diet plan, and are there any potential health concerns? This article will explore whether Premier Protein shakes are keto-approved and provide an overview of their nutritional content.

Premier Protein shakes are keto-friendly, but some flavours are better than others

When following a keto diet, it's important to keep your carbohydrate intake low, typically between 20 and 50 grams per day. This is where protein shakes can be useful, as they are often low in carbs and can help keep you feeling full for longer.

Premier Protein shakes fit the bill, with only 0-2 grams of net carbs per shake, depending on the flavour. However, if you include fibre and artificial sweeteners in the calculation, this number rises to around 6 grams of total carbs.

The different flavours of Premier Protein shakes vary slightly in their carb content. For example, the Strawberries & Cream flavour has 1 gram of net carbs, while the Chocolate Peanut Butter flavour has 3 grams. The Bananas & Cream, Cake Batter Delight, Caramel, and Vanilla flavours all have 4 grams of net carbs.

It's worth noting that the Premier Protein shakes with oats are not considered keto-friendly, as they contain significantly more carbs, with 7 grams per shake. The Goodnight ready-to-drink shakes are also best avoided while on a keto diet, as they contain 10 grams of carbs per shake.

In addition to their carb content, it's important to consider the ingredients of the shakes. Some Premier Protein shakes contain artificial sweeteners such as sucralose, acesulfame potassium, and inulin. While these sweeteners are carb-free, regular consumption may lead to gut health issues.

Another ingredient to be mindful of is carrageenan, a controversial food additive that may cause inflammation.

So, while Premier Protein shakes are generally keto-friendly, it's best to choose the flavours with the lowest carb content and be mindful of the potential impact of artificial sweeteners and additives.

The shakes are low in carbs and high in protein

Premier Protein shakes are a great option for those on a keto diet as they are low in carbs and high in protein. The shakes have between 3 and 5 total carbs and 1-3 net carbs per 11.5oz bottle, depending on the flavour. The Premier Protein powders have a slightly higher carb content, with 2 grams of net carbs per serving, but this is still within the acceptable range for a keto diet.

The shakes are a good option for those wanting to lose weight, as the high protein content can help to keep you feeling full for longer. They are also a convenient option for those on the go, as they are ready to drink.

However, it is important to note that some of the Premier Protein shakes contain artificial sweeteners such as sucralose and acesulfame potassium, which may cause negative side effects for some people. These sweeteners have been linked to gut health issues and can affect ketone levels.

Additionally, the shakes contain carrageenan, an additive that can cause inflammation. For these reasons, it is recommended to slowly transition away from artificially sweetened foods like the Premier Protein shakes and towards whole foods, especially if you have been on a keto diet for more than a few months.

They are considered ''Dirty Keto' due to unhealthy ingredients

Premier Protein shakes are considered keto-friendly as they are low in carbs. However, they are labelled as 'Dirty Keto' due to the presence of unhealthy ingredients.

Dirty Keto is a term used for low-carb foods that contain unhealthy ingredients. While these foods can help you reach ketosis and lose weight, they may also lead to health issues in the long term.

Premier Protein shakes contain artificial sweeteners such as acesulfame K and sucralose. Although these sweeteners are carb-free, they can negatively impact gut health and bacteria when consumed regularly. Sucralose, for example, has been shown to raise blood sugar levels, which can affect ketone levels.

Another controversial additive in Premier Protein shakes is carrageenan, a thickening agent often found in processed foods. Carrageenan can cause inflammation, which people generally try to avoid.

To summarise, while Premier Protein shakes are keto-approved in terms of their carb content, they are considered Dirty Keto due to the presence of artificial sweeteners and additives that may have negative health impacts. For a healthier keto diet, it is recommended to focus on nutritious, minimally processed low-carb foods.

The shakes can be used as a meal replacement to help with weight loss

Premier Protein shakes are a great option for those looking to lose weight through the keto diet. The shakes can be used as a meal replacement to help with weight loss.

Premier Protein shakes are formulated to keep you fuller for longer, making it easier to stick to your keto diet plan. Each shake contains 30 grams of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and recovery. Protein also suppresses appetite, increases metabolism, and prevents muscle loss, all of which are crucial for weight loss.

When using Premier Protein shakes as a meal replacement, it is important to ensure you are still getting all the necessary nutrients. A typical meal replacement shake provides around 90 to 200 calories and essential vitamins and minerals such as zinc, calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, and B-complex. Premier Protein shakes offer a similar nutritional profile, with 160 calories, 24 vitamins and minerals, and only 4 grams of carbs per shake.

It is worth noting that while Premier Protein shakes are keto-approved, not all flavours are ideal for a keto diet. The oat shakes and Goodnight ready-to-drink shakes are best avoided due to their higher carb content. Instead, opt for flavours like Cake Batter Delight, Cafe Latte, Caramel, Chocolate, and Strawberries & Cream, which have fewer than 5 grams of total carbs per shake.

By choosing the right flavour and incorporating Premier Protein shakes as a meal replacement, you can stay on track with your keto diet and achieve your weight loss goals.

There are alternative protein shake brands that use keto-friendly sweeteners

While Premier Protein shakes are keto-approved, they contain artificial sweeteners such as sucralose and acesulfame potassium, which can negatively impact gut health and bacteria. These artificial sweeteners are also associated with raising blood sugar levels, which can, in turn, affect ketone levels.

For example, Ketologie's Collagen Protein Keto Shakes are recommended for their zero net carbs, grass-fed collagen, coconut oil, zero-glycemic index sweeteners, perfect macros, and great flavors.

Another option is to make your own keto-friendly protein shakes at home. A simple recipe for a keto protein shake includes almond milk, Greek yogurt, protein powder, almond butter, and a crystal sweetener such as erythritol, xylitol, or monk fruit blend. This type of shake is easy to make and can be customized with additional ingredients such as cocoa powder, frozen fruits, or vegetables, and collagen powder.

Other keto-friendly protein powder brands include Perfect Keto, Quest, Isopure, PaleoPro, and NutraBio, which can be used in shakes or as a flour replacement in baking.

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