Is Protein powder & shakes safe during pregnancy?
Protein powders are supplements with variable ingredients. Food sources of protein are preferred — ask your clinician before using one.
What the sources say
Protein powders are sold as dietary supplements: FDA regulates them as foods rather than drugs and advises talking with a health professional before use, and ACOG notes supplements aren't regulated by FDA like medicines, so read labels and choose reputable brands. MotherToBaby warns supplements can contain unlisted ingredients or contaminants. Check labels for added herbs and other ingredients. ACOG recommends meeting needs with protein foods such as meat, poultry, seafood, beans, eggs, nuts and soy.
Common alternatives
Also listed as
protein powder, protein shake, whey protein, whey, casein protein, plant protein powder, pea protein, soy protein powder, meal replacement shake, protein drink
Sources
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.