Does your smoothie need an extra scoop of protein?
You’ve picked your smoothie, and then comes the question: add protein?
It can be a convenient addition, particularly if you’re fitting food around a busy day or regular training. But whether you need it depends on what’s already in your drink and what you eat throughout the day.
At Get Fruity, we think it’s worth knowing what that extra scoop brings to your order.
What does the research say?
A major review published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine in 2018 combined 49 studies involving 1,863 people. It found that protein supplementation led to modest additional improvements in muscle size and strength when combined with resistance training lasting at least six weeks.
The important detail is that participants were training consistently. The research doesn’t show that adding protein to a smoothie on its own builds muscle.
Yoghurt and protein powder: what’s the difference?
Both can contribute protein to a smoothie, but they bring different things to the recipe.
Yoghurt adds creaminess and a slightly tangy flavour, alongside naturally occurring protein. The amount depends on the type of yoghurt and the portion used.
Protein powder provides a more concentrated addition. It can also change the flavour and thickness of the drink, depending on the product and serving size.
Our Berry Blast combines strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and banana with Greek yoghurt and vanilla protein. The yoghurt gives it that creamy texture, while the vanilla protein complements the berries and adds to the drink’s protein content.
It already includes protein powder, so it’s worth checking what’s in your usual order before automatically asking for another scoop.
When could a protein booster be useful?
A booster can be a practical option when you want your smoothie to contribute more protein to your day. It’s convenient, easy to add to an order you already enjoy, and saves having to prepare a separate shake.
But start with the bigger picture. What’s in your breakfast, lunch and dinner? Does your chosen smoothie already contain yoghurt or protein powder? Are you adding something useful, or simply assuming that extra must be better?
Those questions are more helpful than judging a drink by the number of scoops in it.
Choose the smoothie that suits you
Sometimes you want a protein smoothie after training. Sometimes you fancy mango, pineapple and something cold on your lunch break. Both are perfectly reasonable reasons to place an order.
Pick the flavours you enjoy, find out what’s already included, and choose a booster if it fits what you’re looking for.
Next time you visit Get Fruity, ask our team what goes into your favourite blend and which protein options are available.