Are Special K Protein Shakes Safe in Pregnancy?

Written by Amber Canaan

28 November, 2018

Special K protein shakes are available in three flavors -- milk chocolate, strawberry and French vanilla. Kellogg’s manufactures these ready-to-drink protein shakes that are available for purchase in grocery stores nationwide. During pregnancy, Special K protein shakes may help you achieve the required protein intake needed for maternal and fetal health. Always consult with your midwife or doctor before adding nutritional supplements during pregnancy, including Special K protein shakes.

Protein During Pregnancy

Protein is a tremendously powerful nutrient during pregnancy. Both mother and baby benefit from protein intake during pregnancy. Additional demands on the mother’s body require an increase in daily protein. The Baby Center parenting website says that protein intake during pregnancy is recommended at 70 to 100 g per day. Each Special K protein shake contains 10 g of protein to supplement your diet and help you reach the recommended intake each day.

Protein is a tremendously powerful nutrient during pregnancy.
The Baby Center parenting website says that protein intake during pregnancy is recommended at 70 to 100 g per day.

Ingredients

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Special K protein shakes include a variety of vitamins and minerals. Each flavor contains different natural and artificial flavors to impart its taste. These protein shakes also contain artificial sweeteners sucralose and acesulfame potassium. Although the American Pregnancy Association states that these ingredients are deemed safe by the FDA, there is controversy over the safety of artificial sweeteners during pregnancy. The lack of long-term data due to the relatively short amount of time these ingredients have been in the food supply lead some people to question their safety. Dr. Larissa Hirsch of KidsHealth.org says that they are likely acceptable in moderation.

Special K protein shakes include a variety of vitamins and minerals.
Although the American Pregnancy Association states that these ingredients are deemed safe by the FDA, there is controversy over the safety of artificial sweeteners during pregnancy.

How to Use Special K Protein Shakes

Special K protein shakes, like other protein supplements, should not be used like meal replacement drinks during pregnancy. Try to get the majority of your nutrients from foods, such as lean meats, fresh fruits and vegetables. Special K protein shakes may be used in addition to meals or as a snack between meals. If you are having difficulty consuming enough protein each day due to nausea, speak with your midwife or doctor regarding treatments for the nausea that would enable your appetite to increase.

Special K protein shakes, like other protein supplements, should not be used like meal replacement drinks during pregnancy.
Special K protein shakes may be used in addition to meals or as a snack between meals.

Considerations

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Special K protein shakes may not be appropriate for all pregnant women. Women with a history of allergies or sensitivity to artificial sweeteners should avoid the product. These shakes also contain milk, which may be unsuitable for individuals who are lactose intolerance or who have a milk allergy. Read the product label carefully, and talk with your health-care provider regarding the safety of drinking Special K protein shakes during your pregnancy.

Special K protein shakes may not be appropriate for all pregnant women.
These shakes also contain milk, which may be unsuitable for individuals who are lactose intolerance or who have a milk allergy.