Protein plays a pivotal role in supporting the healthy development of the mother and the baby during pregnancy. It is a critical building block for the body’s cells and is essential for the baby’s growth during pregnancy.
As such, pregnant women must maintain adequate levels of protein in their diet. This is where protein powder can come in useful!
Protein powders provide a convenient way to supplement your daily protein intake without consuming additional calories from solid food sources. However, not all proteins regarding safety and efficacy in pregnant women are equal.
To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the 9 best protein powders for pregnant women. All of them are formulated with high-quality ingredients and provide the essential nutrients needed for a healthy pregnancy.
Our Top Picks:
Protinex Mother's Nutritional Drink
Pro360 MOM Protein Powder
Horlicks Mother's Plus Protein powder
Vivamom Maternal Nutrition Protein powder
Advanta Whey Protein Powder
Is protein powder safe during pregnancy?
Protein powder can be a helpful supplement during pregnancy, but its use has certain caveats. Pregnancy-safe protein powders offer a convenient protein source without the need for extra calories from solid food during pregnancy.
Before taking any protein supplement, pregnant women should consult with their healthcare provider to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for them. According to UNICEF Maternal Health Guidelines, pregnant women should consume 46 g/day protein in their first trimester and 71 g/day in their second and third trimesters.
Additionally, protein powders are rich in essential amino acids and other nutrients, which can benefit the baby’s development. Protein supplements can also help to prevent excessive weight gain during pregnancy, as the additional protein can reduce hunger and cravings.
Benefits of consuming protein powders during pregnancy?
Pregnancy-safe protein powders provide a variety of benefits to pregnant women, including:
- Enhancing fetal development and growth: If you drink protein powder during pregnancy, you can rest assured that your baby receives the building blocks needed to develop and grow healthy.
- Supporting muscle repair and recovery: Protein powder is an excellent source of essential amino acids for postpartum healing.
- Boosting energy levels: Protein powders help to maintain balanced blood sugar levels during pregnancy by providing a slow and steady release of energy.
- Improving appetite: Protein powders can help to enhance your needs during pregnancy, allowing you to get the daily recommended intake of essential vitamins and minerals.
- Helping to reduce the risk of premature birth: Studies have shown that women who supplement their diets with protein powder during pregnancy are less likely to experience preterm birth.
What to look for in pregnancy protein powders?
When choosing a pregnancy-safe protein powder, make sure to look for the ingredients that are beneficial to pregnant women:
- Protein from plant-based sources: Plant-based proteins such as soy are an excellent choice for pregnant women since they don’t contain hormones or antibiotics.
- Low sugar: High sugar levels can be dangerous for pregnant women, so look for protein powders with low or no added sugar.
- Omegas: Many protein powders are fortified with omegas, which provide essential fatty acids for a healthy pregnancy.
- Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help to promote digestive health and immunity. Look for probiotic-fortified protein powders to support your gut during pregnancy.
- Free from artificial sweeteners: Artificial sweeteners can be unhealthy for pregnant women, so avoid them.
- Free from artificial colors and flavors: Artificial dyes and flavorings can harm the mother and baby, so make sure the protein powder you choose is free of these ingredients.
Best protein powder for pregnant women in India
Protein powders provide an additional source of protein and can be a great way to get other essential vitamins and minerals. During pregnancy, the right protein can help to ensure an adequate daily intake of essential nutrients. Here are the 9 best protein powder during pregnancy in India:
| Product Name | Price at Amazon |
|---|---|
| Protinex Mother's Nutritional Drink | No products found. |
| Pro360 MOM Protein Powder | ₹ 489 |
| Horlicks Mother's Plus Protein powder | No products found. |
| Vivamom Maternal Nutrition Protein powder | ₹ 600 |
| Advanta Whey Protein Powder | ₹ 1,599 |
| Fabpro Mom Essential Protein powder | No products found. |
| Develo Pregnancy & Lactation Protein powder | ₹ 575 |
1
Protinex Mother's Nutritional Drink
Best protein powder for Breastfeeding Women
Protinex Mother's Nutritional Drink is a specially formulated nutritional supplement designed to cater to the specific dietary needs of pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. It is fortified with DHA, which is beneficial for the fetus's brain development. Protinex Mama also contains high-quality protein and essential nutrients that contribute to the overall health and well-being of the mother. This chocolate flavor vegan protein powder offers several benefits; it's necessary to consider individual taste preferences and dietary needs before purchasing.
No products found.
Pros:
- Enriched with DHA, which aids in the baby's brain development
- High-quality protein
- Vegan and lactose-free
- Unique chocolate flavor
Cons:
- Some users have reported that the taste might be too sweet.
| Type of Protein: | Powder |
|---|---|
| Flavour: | Chocolate |
| Protein per serving: | 8 grams |
| Nutritional facts: | 14.3 g Carbohydrates, 0.38 g fat, 10 g sugar, 6.8 mg iron (as per serving) |
2
Pro360 MOM Protein Powder
Best budget-friendly protein powder
The Pro360 MOM Protein Powder is a nutritional supplement for pregnant and lactating women. It comes in a Swiss Chocolate flavor, which adds a delightful taste to its impressive nutritional profile. Pro360 MOM Protein Powder is enriched with 30 essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, all vital for maternal health and wellness during pregnancy and lactation. The formula is enhanced with DHA, Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, and Vitamin D, ensuring your baby gets a healthy start in life.
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Pros:
- Contains DHA, aiding in the baby's brain development
- High in protein, supporting overall health and well-being
- Provide enough protein for pregnant and lactating women
- Easy to use and no added sugar
Cons:
- Some users may prefer a less sweet flavor.
- The product needs to be consumed within a short period after opening.
| Type of Protein: | Powder |
|---|---|
| Flavour: | Chocolate |
| Protein per serving: | 6 grams |
| Nutritional facts: | 15 g Carbohydrates, 1 g fat, 0 g sugar, 6.5 mg iron (as per serving) |
3
Horlicks Mother's Plus Protein powder
Best vanilla protein powder for pregnant moms
Horlicks Mother's Plus Protein Powder offers scientifically designed nutrition for pregnancy and breastfeeding. This health drink is high in protein and DHA, which supports the healthy birth weight of the baby and aids in brain development. This protein powder is packed with 27 vital nutrients, making it a comprehensive health drink designed to fulfill the nutritional requirements during pregnancy and lactation. The delicious vanilla or kesar flavor makes this supplement enjoyable to consume.
No products found.
Pros:
- Supports brain development
- Provide immunity to the Foetus
- Formulated with 27 vital nutrients
- Delicious kesar or vanilla protein powder
- No added sugar, preservatives, or colors
Cons:
- As with any supplement, there is potential for allergic reactions or intolerance to certain ingredients.
| Type of Protein: | Powder |
|---|---|
| Flavour: | Kesar and vanilla |
| Protein per serving: | 20 grams |
| Nutritional facts: | 58.5 g Carbohydrates, 5 g fat, 0 g sugar, 28 mg iron |
4
HealthyHey Nutrition- Protein powder
Best prebiotic protein powder for pregnant women
HealthyHey Nutrition- Protein for Pregnant Women, also known as BabyGrowth, is an all-natural, vegetarian protein supplement formulated for pregnant women. The gluten- and soy protein-free product suits those with specific dietary restrictions or preferences. The protein supplement is loaded with prebiotics, which aid digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut. The product contains no artificial flavors, making it a healthier choice for expectant mothers.
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Pros:
- Provide immune-boosting and antioxidant benefits
- Natural, vegetarian supplement
- Gluten and soy protein-free
- No artificial flavors or colors
Cons:
- The product size is relatively small compared to other protein powders.
- Some users may find the taste of this protein powder bland.
| Type of Protein: | Powder |
|---|---|
| Flavour: | Chocolate |
| Protein per serving: | 8 grams of protein per serving |
| Nutritional facts: | 14.97 g Carbohydrates, 0.60 g fat, 9.20 g sugar, 7 mg iron (as per serving) |
5
Vivamom Maternal Nutrition Protein powder
Best probiotic protein powder for pregnant women
Vivamom Maternal Nutrition Supplement Powder is packed with proteins (Whey and casein) associated with reduced risks of low birth weight and helps improve fetal growth. The product also contains dietary fiber, which supports bowel frequency and stool consistency and helps meet increased dietary fiber needs during pregnancy. The formula has DHA, a type of Omega-3 fatty acid known to keep the brain and eye development of the fetus. It also contains probiotics, which potentially support the immune function of the mother.
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Pros:
- Includes Hemo Nutrients for normal blood formation and fetal growth
- Gluten-free and trans-fat-free product
- Supports bowel frequency
- Supports stool consistency
- Contains DHA and probiotics
Cons:
- Some users may be put off by the taste of this product.
- Some users may be sensitive to the ingredients used in this product.
| Type of Protein: | Powder |
|---|---|
| Flavour: | Vanilla |
| Protein per serving: | 9.90 grams |
| Nutritional facts: | 15.60 g Carbohydrates, 0.90 g fat, 1.50 g sugar, 17.50 mg iron (as per serving) |
6
Advanta Whey Protein Powder
Best protein powder for postnatal support
Advanta Sugar-Free Whey Protein Powder is a nutritional supplement for pregnant women. It contains whey protein isolate, an easily digestible protein, making it ideal for pregnant women. The formula contains 22 essential vitamins and minerals critical during pregnancy and postpartum recovery. This sugar-free variant makes it a healthier choice for pregnant women. The vanilla flavor also adds a pleasant taste to the protein powder.
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Pros:
- Easy-to-digest protein
- Contains 22 essential vitamins and minerals
- No added sugar
- Pleasant vanilla flavor
Cons:
- The product is not suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
| Type of Protein: | Powder |
|---|---|
| Flavour: | Vanilla |
| Protein per serving: | 15 grams |
| Nutritional facts: | 13 g Carbohydrates, 0 g fat, 0 g sugar, 0 mg iron (as per serving) |
7
Fabpro Mom Essential Protein powder
Best protein powder for lactation
Fabpro Mom Essential Protein Powder by Friska is a nutritional supplement formulated for pregnant and breastfeeding women. It contains 200g of protein powder per pack and has a delicious Chocolate flavor. This product includes micronutrients, including Vitamin B1, B2, B6, B12, A, Selenium, and iodine, which are known to improve the quality of breast milk. The protein content in this product contributes to a healthy birth weight of the baby. It also contains DHA, an Omega-3 fatty acid essential for the baby's cognitive development.
No products found.
Pros:
- Rich in protein and other micronutrients
- Promotes cognitive development
- Contains DHA for improved brain development of the baby
- No added sugar or artificial ingredients
Cons:
- It may be unsuitable for those with dietary restrictions or allergies.
- Some users may find the chocolate flavor too sweet.
| Type of Protein: | Powder |
|---|---|
| Flavour: | Chocolate |
| Protein per serving: | 9.90 grams |
| Nutritional facts: | 17.10 g Carbohydrates, 0.28 g fat, 7.50 g sugar, 3 mg iron (as per serving) |
8
Develo Pregnancy & Lactation Protein powder
Best organic protein powder
The Develo Pregnancy & Lactation Protein Supplement is scientifically designed to provide essential nutrition during pregnancy and lactation. It contains micronutrients known to support healthy birth weight of the baby. The product also helps provide 100% of the daily requirement of Vitamin B2, B12, and C during pregnancy and Vitamin B2, Iron, and Folic Acid during lactation. This supplement comes in various flavors, including Banana Shake, Chocolate, Elaichi Pista, Kesar Badam, and Mixed Fruit, providing multiple options for consumers.
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Pros:
- Provides DHA and choline for brain development
- Support better sleep and alertness
- Fortified with essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids
- Promotes healthy birth weight of the baby
Cons:
- Not suitable for those with dietary restrictions
- Not suitable for those who want a plant-based protein powder
| Type of Protein: | Powder |
|---|---|
| Flavour: | BANANA Shake |
| Protein per serving: | 6 grams |
| Nutritional facts: | 20 g Carbohydrates, 2 g fat, 0 g sugar, 6 mg iron (as per serving) |
9
Healthy You Mom Protein powder
Best sugar-free protein powder
Healthy You Mom is formulated to meet women's nutritional requirements during pregnancy and lactation. This product contains high-quality vegetarian protein, including whey protein, that helps support the healthy development of your baby's brain. The key ingredients include Folic Acid, Vitamin B Complex, Vitamin C, Calcium, Iron, Satavary Extract, and Vitamin K2-7. The unique flavor makes it enjoyable for those who are not used to taking supplements regularly.
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Pros:
- Promotes good bone health
- High in vegetarian protein
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals
- It helps support recovery from physiological changes
- It emphasizes bone health
Cons:
- Some users may find the powder difficult to mix with liquids
- May need to consume protein-rich foods for better absorption.
| Type of Protein: | Powder |
|---|---|
| Flavour: | Chocolate |
| Protein per serving: | 15.7 grams |
| Nutritional facts: | 8 g Carbohydrates, 3.3 g fat, 0 g sugar, 18.7 mg iron (as per serving) |
How We Choose Protein Powder For Pregnancy?
Protein powders offer a convenient and nutritious way to meet the daily protein needs of pregnant women. We select protein powders for pregnant women based on the following criteria:
- We look for protein powders free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors.
- We ensure the product is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals for a healthy pregnancy.
- We check to ensure that the protein powder contains probiotics or omegas to support maternal health.
- We assess whether the product has been tested in clinical trials to ensure its safety and efficacy.
- We look for a protein powder with a low glycemic index to avoid sudden blood sugar spikes or drops.
- We check the accuracy of the nutrition labels and ingredient list before recommending any product.
- Finally, we consider customer reviews to determine the overall quality of the product.
Furthermore, we always suggest that pregnant women consult with their healthcare provider before taking any supplement during pregnancy. This ensures that the product chosen is right for them and will help to ensure a healthy and safe pregnancy.
Tips to consider while consuming pregnancy protein powders!
Getting the right amount of protein from various sources is essential during pregnancy. The following tips can help you make the most out of your protein powder:
- Read the label and check for allergens or artificial sweeteners that may not be suitable during pregnancy.
- Mix the powder with milk, yogurt, or nut butter for an extra protein boost.
- Add fresh fruit to the shake for additional vitamins and minerals.
- Drink in moderation and follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding consumption.
- Take a multivitamin supplement if your diet lacks essential vitamins and minerals during pregnancy.
- Plan and stock up on healthy snacks to avoid unhealthy food cravings.
- Avoid drinking protein shakes late in the day, which can cause insomnia and disrupt sleep.
- Make sure to take breaks between drinks so you don’t overconsume protein.
Taking a pregnancy-safe protein powder can benefit pregnant women if done in moderation and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
