Lactose-free protein shakes include options made from pea, rice, hemp, or egg protein, as well as lactose-free whey protein isolates.
Finding protein shakes without lactose is crucial for those with dairy sensitivities. Many popular brands now offer delicious lactose-free options that provide muscle-building protein without digestive discomfort.
Why Choose Lactose-Free Protein Shakes?
Lactose intolerance affects about 65% of adults worldwide. Symptoms include bloating, gas and stomach pain after consuming dairy. Lactose-free protein shakes solve this problem by either removing lactose from dairy proteins or using plant-based alternatives.
How Lactose is Removed from Protein Shakes
Dairy-based lactose-free shakes use special filtration processes:
- Ultrafiltration – Removes lactose while concentrating protein
- Enzyme treatment – Lactase enzyme breaks down lactose
- Isolation – Whey protein isolate contains minimal lactose
Top Lactose-Free Protein Shake Options
1. Fairlife Core Power
This popular brand uses ultrafiltered milk to create shakes with 26-42g protein per bottle. Available in chocolate, vanilla, banana and strawberry banana flavors. The stainless steel blender bottle keeps these shakes cold for hours.
2. Slate Milk Protein Shakes
Offers 20g protein per serving with 0g added sugar. Their variety pack includes classic chocolate, dark chocolate and french vanilla flavors. Made through ultrafiltration like cold press juicers preserve nutrients.
3. Plant-Based Alternatives
For completely dairy-free options:
| Type | Protein Source | Example Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Pea Protein | Yellow peas | Vega, Ripple |
| Rice Protein | Brown rice | Sunwarrior, Nutribiotic |
| Hemp Protein | Hemp seeds | Manitoba Harvest |
Key Benefits of Lactose-Free Protein
Easier Digestion
Removing lactose prevents bloating and discomfort while still providing high-quality protein for muscle recovery.
Higher Protein Concentration
Ultrafiltration increases protein content while reducing sugars. Fairlife’s process creates milk with 50% more protein and 50% less sugar than regular milk.
Wider Availability
Once hard to find, lactose-free protein shakes are now available at most grocery stores, pharmacies and online retailers like Amazon and Walmart.
How to Make Your Own Lactose-Free Shakes
For homemade options, combine these ingredients in a portable blender:
- Lactose-free milk or plant milk (1 cup)
- Protein powder (1 scoop whey isolate or plant protein)
- Frozen fruit (1/2 cup)
- Nut butter (1 tbsp)
- Ice cubes (4-5)
Nutrition Comparison
Here’s how popular lactose-free shakes stack up nutritionally per serving:
| Brand | Calories | Protein | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fairlife Core Power | 170 | 26g | 6g |
| Slate Milk | 140 | 20g | 0g |
| Vega Plant Protein | 160 | 20g | 1g |
Who Should Use Lactose-Free Protein?
These shakes benefit multiple groups:
- Athletes with dairy sensitivities
- Older adults with reduced lactase production
- People recovering from stomach issues
- Those following elimination diets
- Vegans (plant-based options)
