Bolthouse Protein Shake Review – Is Bolthouse Protein Plus Healthy? - Friday Food Talk
Protein shakes are everywhere these days. From grocery store shelves to coffee shop menus, high-protein drinks have become a staple for busy people seeking quick nutrition. One brand that’s earned a loyal following is Bolthouse Farms—but is the Bolthouse Protein Plus with Almond Butter actually good for you?
In this Bolthouse Protein Shake review, we’ll look at the nutrition facts, health benefits, and potential downsides. Using the Nutripledge Food Coach rating system, this shake scored a Red Dot Food rating—meaning it should be enjoyed occasionally, and with caution.
Bolthouse Protein Shake Nutrition Facts – The Good, The Bad & The Caution
✅ The Good
- Convenient high-protein drink for on-the-go meals or snacks.
- Fortified with vitamins and minerals, including:
- Calcium: 60% Daily Value (DV)
- Iron: 60% DV
- Vitamin K: 25% DV
- Vitamin D: 40% DV
- Several B vitamins for energy and metabolism support
❌ The Bad
- Protein comes from whey protein concentrate and soy protein concentrate (30 g per serving).
- Highly processed with many added ingredients.
- 29 g of added sugars—similar to a sweetened soda.
- Low in fiber for the amount of calories.
⚠ The Caution
- Very high protein for its calorie level—can exceed daily needs for many people if consumed more than 2-3 servings.
Is Bolthouse Protein Plus Healthy for Everyone?
The truth is, most people don’t need as much protein as food marketing suggests. Unless you’re a competitive athlete or have specific dietary needs, the general recommendation for healthy adults is 0.8–1 g of protein per kilogram of body weight per day.
Over-consuming protein from processed shakes like Bolthouse Protein Plus doesn’t necessarily improve health, and it can add unnecessary calories, sugars, and protein overload to your diet.
The Problem with Added Sugars in Protein Drinks
With 29 grams of added sugar, the Bolthouse Protein Plus Almond Butter Shake:
- Can spike blood sugar and insulin levels
- May increase the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease
- Can contribute to weight gain
According to the American Heart Association:
- Women should limit added sugar to 25 g (6 tsp) per day
- Men should limit added sugar to 37 g (9 tsp) per day
*One bottle of this protein shake can meet—or exceed—those limits.
A Better Way to Get Protein
For a balanced diet:
- Protein should make up 10–35% of total calories.
- Choose whole food plant-based protein sources—like beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds for better nutrition and health.
Final Verdict – Should You Buy Bolthouse Protein Shake?
The Bolthouse Protein Plus Almond Butter Shake can be part of your diet occasionally, but it’s not the healthiest everyday choice. While it’s convenient and fortified with key nutrients, it’s also high in added sugars, low in fiber, and heavily processed.
If you want a cleaner, more nutrient-dense option, try this Banana Almond Smoothie with Chia Seeds—it offers natural sweetness, dietary fiber, and protein without the added sugar or artificial processing.
Disclaimer! Please note that this page is not medical advice. It offers only general guidance for a healthy and balanced diet. This food does not guarantee an adequate or safe intake level for any individual. Please consult your healthcare provider and explore our Medical Nutrition Therapy services for a meal plan tailored to your needs.