11 Best Keto Shakes For Weight Loss in 2024
Overall my top pick is Sated Keto Shake because it ticks the boxes of a keto diet, it is high in fat, moderate in protein, and low in net carbs.
However, there are also many other good options for you to consider based on your budget, taste preference, and nutrition.
In this article I cover the best keto shakes for weight loss, I also talk about what you should look out for before buying a keto shake, along with their benefits and downsides. So read on.
Top Keto Shakes For Weight Loss
1. Sated Keto Shake: The Complete Kit
Description: Sated offers not just a shake but a complete kit, ensuring you have everything you need for your keto journey.
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 400
Fat: 35 grams
Protein: 18 grams
Net Carbs: 1 grams
Pros:
Comes with a kit that includes oil and a shaker.
Subscription discounts are available.
Rich in protein and low in carbs.
Cons:
Might leave you feeling hungry at times.
Contains artificial sweeteners.
Requires addition of fats.
Why Choose This Product: Sated is perfect for those who want a comprehensive solution. With its kit and flavorful shakes, it’s a convenient choice for keto enthusiasts.
2. HLTH Code Keto Shakes: The Smooth Operator
Description: HLTH Code offers shakes that stand out for their texture. They’re smooth, without the oily aftertaste common in many keto shakes.
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 400
Fat: 27 grams
Protein: 27 grams
Net Carbs: 4 grams
Pros:
Free from artificial ingredients and additives.
Offers a smooth texture without an oily aftertaste.
Available in both chocolate and vanilla flavors.
Cons:
Limited flavor options.
Shakes might be thinner than some prefer.
Why Choose This Product: If you’re particular about the texture of your shakes, HLTH Code is worth a try. It offers a smooth experience without compromising on taste.
Also read: Best Energy Drinks for Weight Loss
3. OWYN Pro High Elite Protein: The Plant-Based Powerhouse
Description: OWYN offers a keto-friendly protein shake that’s 100% plant-based, catering to vegans and those looking for a plant-powered boost.
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 200
Fat: 7 grams
Protein: 32 grams
Net Carbs: 0 grams
Pros:
Entirely plant-based and vegan.
Smooth texture.
Suitable for athletes seeking a protein boost.
Cons:
Limited flavor options.
Thick consistency might not appeal to everyone.
Why Choose This Product: For those seeking a plant-based, keto-friendly protein shake, OWYN is a top choice. It’s especially suitable for athletes looking for muscle recovery and growth.
4. Ambronite Keto Meal Shake: The Vegan Delight
Description: Ambronite brings a plant-based, keto-friendly shake that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition.
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 400
Protein: 18.4 grams
Net Carbs: 4.5 grams
Fat: 31 grams
Pros:
100% organic and natural ingredients.
Rich in digestive enzymes and amino acids.
No added sugars or sweeteners.
Cons:
Contains xylitol, which may not be preferred by all.
Why Choose This Product: For vegans on a keto diet, Ambronite offers the perfect blend of taste, nutrition, and ethical sourcing.
5. Ketond Keto Protein: The Energy Booster
Description: Ketond is all about providing that energy boost, especially for those intense workout sessions.
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 200 (per scoop)
Protein: 11 grams
Carbs: 3 grams
Fat: 16 grams
Pros:
Contains 14 essential vitamins and minerals.
No artificial sweeteners or flavors.
GMO and gluten-free.
Cons:
Lacks Lauric acid, which some might prefer.
Why Choose This Product: If you’re looking for a keto shake that gives you an energy boost, especially pre or post-workout, Ketond is the one for you.
6. PhenQ Complete Meal Shake: The Premium Choice
Description: PhenQ stands out as a top-tier keto shake, boasting a delightful taste and a rich nutrient profile.
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 269
Protein: 16 grams (vegan source)
Carbs: 0 g
Fat: 13 grams
Pros:
Contains 24 essential vitamins and minerals.
Loved for its chocolatey taste.
Gluten-free and non-GMO.
Cons:
Slightly low in calories.
Exclusive purchase through their official website.
Why Choose This Product: PhenQ is not just a meal shake; it’s a complete nutritional experience. With ingredients like Ashwagandha extracts and Reishi mushrooms, it ensures you get a balanced dose of nutrients while aiding in weight loss.
Also read: Is Spam Good for Weight Loss?
7. Ample K: The All-Natural Option
Description: Ample K offers a wholesome approach to keto shakes, focusing on natural ingredients and a balanced nutrient profile.
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 400
Protein: 25 grams
Net Carbs: 4 grams
Fat: 28 grams
Pros:
Offers two portion sizes for flexibility.
Rich in MCT oil for ketosis benefits.
Contains probiotics for gut health.
Cons:
A bit on the pricier side.
Why Choose This Product: For those who prioritize natural ingredients and a holistic approach to nutrition, Ample K is the perfect choice.
8. Keto Chow Shake: The Flavorful Delight
Description: Keto Chow is renowned for its vast array of flavors, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Its serving size is notably generous, helping to curb cravings and keep you full.
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 530
Fat: 47 grams
Protein: 28 grams
Net Carbs: 2 grams
Pros:
Over 25 delicious flavors are available.
Subscription discounts are offered.
Effective in curbing sugar cravings.
Cons:
Requires you to add your own fats.
The price might be on the higher side for some.
Why Choose This Product: If variety is what you seek, Keto Chow won’t disappoint. Its flavors, from salted caramel to snickerdoodle, combined with its fulfilling nature, make it a top choice.
9. SlimFast Keto Shakes: The Budget-Friendly Option
Description: SlimFast keto meal replacement shake offers keto shakes that are both affordable and convenient, available in ready-to-drink and powdered forms.
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 190
Fat: 15 grams
Protein: 5 grams
Net Carbs: 8 grams
Pros:
Filling despite its low-calorie content.
Affordable price point.
Available in both ready-to-drink and powdered forms.
Cons:
Taste might not appeal to everyone.
Higher carbs compared to other options.
Why Choose This Product: If you’re on a budget but still want a keto-friendly shake, SlimFast is a solid choice. It’s convenient and won’t break the bank.
10. Instant Knockout Complete: The Muscle Builder
Description: Instant Knockout is the go-to for those looking to build muscle without compromising their keto diet.
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 400
Protein: 35 grams (plant-based)
Net Carbs: 22 grams
Fat: 13 grams
Pros:
Packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
Vegan-friendly.
Promotes thermogenesis for fat burning.
Cons:
Available in only one flavor.
Why Choose This Product: If muscle building on a keto diet is your goal, Instant Knockout is your best bet. Its unique formula ensures you don’t lose muscle while shedding those extra pounds.
11. Proganics Keto Shakes: The All-Natural Choice
Description: Proganics is for those who prioritize natural ingredients. It’s free from major allergens, making it suitable for many with dietary restrictions.
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 266
Fat: 65 grams
Protein: 22 grams
Net Carbs: 13 grams
Pros:
Made with all-organic ingredients.
Free from major allergens.
No added sugars or controversial ingredients.
Cons:
Higher price point.
Limited flavor options.
Why Choose This Product: If you’re looking for a shake that’s both keto-friendly and organic, Proganics is a top contender. It’s suitable for those with allergies and prioritizes natural ingredients.
What to Look For In a Keto Shake For Weight Loss
Navigating the world of keto meal replacement shakes can be a bit overwhelming, especially when you’re aiming for weight loss. Let’s dive deeper into the science behind each point to help you make an informed choice:
Calories
Calories are units of energy. When you consume fewer calories than you burn, you create a calorie deficit, which is essential for weight loss.
For a keto meal replacement shake, having between 400 and 600 calories ensures you’re getting enough energy to keep you going without overdoing it.
It’s like striking a balance – you don’t want to feel starved, but you also don’t want to consume too many calories in just one shake.
Protein
Keto isn’t a high-protein diet, but protein is still crucial. It helps maintain muscle mass, especially if you’re working out. However, too much protein can interfere with ketosis.
Whey protein concentrate is a common source of protein in many shakes.
Striking a balance is key. Look for shakes that offer a moderate protein amount, tailored to your activity level and body needs.
A keto protein powder with 20 to 35 grams of protein can help preserve muscle mass during weight loss and keep hunger at bay. Remember, when you feel satiated, you’re less likely to snack impulsively.
Also read: Are Protein Pancakes Good For Weight Loss?
Carbs
The essence of the keto diet is to minimize carb intake, pushing your body to burn fats for energy, a state known as ketosis.
When scouting for the best keto meal replacement shake, you’d ideally want one with net carbs per serving in the single digits.
By choosing a shake with minimal net carbs, you support the body’s ability to stay in ketosis, where it burns fat for energy instead of carbs. This can be particularly beneficial for weight loss.
Fats
On keto, fats aren’t the enemy; they’re your primary energy source.
But not all fats are created equal. Healthy fats like MCT oil from coconut oil are easily converted into energy, avocado oil is packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, and flaxseed oil boasts omega-3s.
These fats not only fuel your body but also keep you satiated longer.
Nutrients
Beyond macronutrients (fats, proteins, carbs), our body needs micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) and other beneficial compounds for optimal function.
Ingredients like BHB can help the body produce energy in the absence of glucose, while minerals like magnesium can support muscle and nerve function.
A well-rounded keto shake will provide these essential nutrients, ensuring you’re not missing out on vital components for overall health while focusing on weight loss.
Taste
Let’s be real, If it doesn’t taste good, you’re probably not going to stick with it. While taste is subjective, reading reviews or getting recommendations can give you an idea of which shakes are palate-pleasing.
No Added Sugars
Sugars can quickly increase the carb content of your shake. Even if they’re labeled as “healthy” or “natural,” sugars can affect your blood sugar levels and insulin response.
Artificial sweeteners, while calorie-free, can sometimes cause digestive discomfort or cravings. Always check the ingredient list for hidden sugars or sweeteners.
Natural Ingredients
Ever looked at a product label and felt like you were reading a science textbook?
Us too! The best shakes have ingredients you recognize, like cocoa powder or almond butter.
Natural ingredients often mean fewer artificial additives, which is always a win for your body.
Versatility
A shake that can wear many hats is a gem. Can you blend it with coffee? Use it in pancakes? As a post-workout drink? The more roles your shake can play in your diet, the more value you get out of it.
Incorporating Keto Shakes in a Healthy Weight Loss Diet
Alright, let’s put on our science caps and delve deeper into how keto meal replacement powders fit into a weight loss regimen. Understanding the ‘why’ behind each point can help you make the most of these shakes. Let’s break it down!
Meal Replacement
When you replace a meal with a keto shake, you’re essentially controlling your calorie and macronutrient intake.
Keto protein shakes are designed to provide a balance of fats, proteins, and minimal carbs.
This balance can help maintain stable blood sugar levels, preventing the typical spikes and crashes that can lead to increased hunger and overeating later on.
Pre or Post-Workout Boost
Muscles require energy during workouts, and they need repair afterward. The healthy fats in keto shakes can provide sustained energy, as fats are a longer-lasting energy source compared to carbs.
Post-workout, the protein in the shake aids in muscle protein synthesis, helping repair and build muscle tissue.
Snack Time Savior
Snacking on high-carb foods can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar, followed by a sharp drop, leading to increased hunger.
Keto shakes, being low in carbs, provide a steady energy release. The high fat and protein content can also promote satiety, reducing the overall calorie intake.
Recipe Enhancer
When you incorporate keto shakes into recipes, you’re adding nutrient density.
For instance, adding a shake to a pancake batter can increase its protein and healthy fat content, making the pancakes more filling and nutritionally balanced.
Curb the Sweet Cravings
Sweet cravings often arise due to fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Consuming high-sugar foods results in a quick energy boost followed by a crash, triggering cravings.
Keto shakes, with their balanced macronutrients, provide steady energy, reducing the likelihood of sugar cravings.
Additionally, certain ingredients like cocoa have compounds that can stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s natural ‘feel good’ chemicals.
Stay Hydrated
When you’re on a keto diet, the body tends to excrete more water, making hydration even more critical. While keto shakes contribute to hydration, they shouldn’t replace water.
Drinking water alongside your shake ensures optimal metabolic function and supports the body’s natural detoxification processes.
Listen to Your Body
Our bodies have intricate feedback systems, like the hunger and satiety hormones ghrelin and leptin. Ghrelin signals the body to eat, while leptin signals fullness.
Overeating or consuming foods that don’t provide the right nutrients can disrupt this balance.
By tuning into these signals when consuming keto shakes, you ensure you’re meeting your body’s needs without overdoing it.
Benefits of Keto Shakes For Weight Loss
Keto shakes have become a staple for many on their weight loss journey, and for good reason.
Precise Macronutrient Balance
Keto shakes are formulated to have the right balance of fats, proteins, and minimal carbs.
This precise ratio ensures you’re getting the nutrients needed to maintain ketosis, where the body burns fat for energy, facilitating weight loss.
Appetite Regulation
The high fat and moderate protein content in keto shakes can help regulate the hunger hormone ghrelin and the satiety hormone leptin.
This balance can reduce overeating and unnecessary snacking, which are common pitfalls in weight loss efforts.
Stabilized Blood Sugar Levels
With minimal carbs and sugars, keto shakes can prevent the blood sugar spikes and crashes associated with carb-heavy meals.
Stable blood sugar levels can reduce cravings, especially for sugary and starchy foods, aiding in calorie control.
Enhanced Fat Burning
By maintaining a state of ketosis, the body becomes efficient at burning fat for energy.
Consuming keto shakes can support this metabolic state, ensuring the body taps into fat reserves for its energy needs.
Convenient Calorie Control
Keto shakes offer a controlled amount of calories in every serving. This makes it easier to track daily calorie intake, which is essential for weight loss.
Plus, the convenience of a shake reduces the likelihood of reaching for high-calorie, non-keto alternatives when in a rush.
Supports Muscle Preservation
Weight loss isn’t just about shedding fat; it’s also crucial to preserve muscle mass.
The adequate protein content in keto shakes ensures that while you’re in a caloric deficit, your body doesn’t break down muscle tissue for energy.
Thermogenic Boost
Certain ingredients often found in keto shakes, like MCT oil or green tea extract, have thermogenic properties.
This means they can naturally increase the body’s calorie-burning rate, supporting faster weight loss.
Digestive Health
Many keto shakes include ingredients like fiber or probiotics. A healthy gut can aid in digestion, reduce bloating, and ensure efficient nutrient absorption—all of which can indirectly support weight loss.
Reduced Inflammation
Chronic inflammation can hinder weight loss efforts. Ingredients like turmeric, often found in keto shakes, have anti-inflammatory properties.
By reducing inflammation, the body can function optimally, supporting efficient weight loss.
Enhanced Mental Clarity
A lesser-discussed benefit, but equally important. The state of ketosis is often associated with improved mental clarity and focus.
When the brain has a steady energy source (ketones), it functions better. This mental boost can enhance motivation and commitment to one’s weight loss goals.
Also read: Is Iced Coffee Good for Weight Loss?
Downsides of Keto Shakes For Weight Loss
While keto shakes offer numerous benefits for weight loss, it’s essential to approach them with a balanced perspective. Like any dietary tool, they come with their set of drawbacks. Let’s dive into the specific downsides of relying on keto shakes for weight loss.
Nutrient Imbalance Over Time
While keto shakes are formulated to provide an optimal balance of macronutrients for ketosis, relying solely on them can lead to a lack of essential vitamins and minerals found in whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and grains.
Potential for Overconsumption
Because they’re convenient and often tasty, there’s a risk of over-consuming keto shakes. This can lead to taking in more calories than intended, hindering weight loss goals.
Digestive Discomfort
Some people might experience digestive issues, especially when starting with keto shakes.
Ingredients like MCT oil or certain sugar alcohols used as sweeteners can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, or gas in some individuals.
Cost Factor
High-quality keto shakes with premium ingredients can be pricey. Relying on them regularly can strain one’s budget, especially when compared to whole foods that can be bought in bulk and prepared at home.
Potential Reliance on Processed Ingredients
Not all keto shakes are created equal. Some might contain artificial additives, preservatives, or low-quality fillers. Over time, consuming these processed ingredients might not be ideal for overall health.
Taste Fatigue
Even with the best of flavors, consuming keto shakes regularly can lead to taste fatigue. This can make it challenging to stick to a diet if you’re not enjoying what you’re consuming.
Lack of Chewing
Chewing is an essential part of the digestive process, signaling the body to release digestive enzymes. Relying heavily on liquid nutrition might deprive the body of this natural digestive aid.
Potential for Nut Allergies
Many keto shakes use nut-based ingredients or are processed in facilities with nuts. This can pose a risk for those with nut allergies or sensitivities.
Not a Long-Term Solution
While keto shakes can be beneficial in the short term or for occasional meal replacement, they might not be sustainable as a primary food source in the long run.
Whole foods offer a variety of textures, flavors, and nutrients that shakes can’t fully replicate.
Also read: Is Gatorade Good for Weight Loss?
Conclusion
It’s essential to recognize that while many brands promise the moon, not all deliver the desired results. The key lies in understanding your unique needs and ensuring the shake you choose aligns with them.
Personally, I am not a big fan of meal replacement shakes as I think they are unsustainable in the long term.
However, if you do want to try out some keto shakes to complement your keto diet, remember to use them responsibly and in step with a balanced diet.
Ultimately your diet and your overall lifestyle of staying active, getting enough sleep, and managing your stress levels is going to help you get closer to your weight loss goals. No keto shake could replace that.
FAQ
Can you lose weight with keto shakes?
Yes, keto shakes can aid in weight loss by promoting ketosis and reducing calorie intake.
Can you drink meal replacement shakes on keto?
Yes, as long as the meal replacement shakes are low in carbs and fit within the keto macronutrient profile.
How to lose 10 pounds in a month with keto?
Achieve a consistent calorie deficit, maintain a strict low-carb diet to stay in ketosis, and incorporate regular exercise.