Smoothie vs Shake – What is the Difference?

10.   Smoothie vs Shake – What is the Difference?

Health websites are filled with drink recipes to make you look and feel healthier.

Protein Shakes and Green Smoothies are two common themes… but what is the difference?

At first glance, these two drinks are very similar. I think of them as basically interchangeable, but there are some key differences that might make you choose one over the other.

Today I’m going to weigh in on the smoothie vs shake debate.

I’ll start with the main differences, but keep reading for important information on how to choose the best option for you.

The Bottom Line:

·       ​Smoothies are thick due to the vegetable and fruit pulp they contain, while shakes use creamier ingredients.

·       Shakes usually contain a hefty dose of protein, while smoothies may not

·       Common smoothie flavors: strawberry, mango, kiwi, pineapple or green vegetables

·       Common shake flavors: vanilla, chocolate, caramel, or peanut butter

·       Smoothies and shakes can be both healthy options as long as you make them yourself at home

·       Pre-workout smoothies are the best option, and shakes are great for post-workout.

·       When ordering at a restaurant, ask questions and ensure you’re not getting a milkshake in a false healthy disguise.

Base and Texture

Shakes have a creamier texture than smoothies. Think of milkshakes… they are so thick you could probably use a spoon if you wanted to.

We’re only referring to shakes that are made from health-friendly ingredients. This excludes milkshakes which are usually based on ice cream.

Shakes use a much healthier base ingredient than ice cream - frozen banana, avocado, and coconut milk are just some of the ingredients you will find adding richness to a healthy shake recipe.

This is different than smoothies, as they don’t necessarily have a creamy texture. They can be thick, as they contain the pulp of the fruit and vegetables. Especially frozen fruit can add thickness but not necessarily creaminess.

The liquid base of shakes is often milk, coconut milk or yogurt, while the more typical liquid base for smoothies is water or almond milk.

Protein Content

Protein is where shakes really stand apart from smoothies.

Smoothies may or may not contain any protein at all. Often smoothie ingredients are limited to fruits and vegetables, with some hemp seeds or nut butter added to increase protein content.

Shakes are typically fortified with some kind of protein powder. This adds a creamy texture and will make you feel full for longer. Shakes are often designed as a meal replacement so their nutrient ratio is more comprehensive.

That said, you could always add some protein powder to a smoothie if you want to increase the protein content. That’s usually all it takes to turn your green smoothie into a green protein shake.

Flavor Combinations

When most people think of a smoothie, they think of a brightly colored drink.

Popular fruit smoothie flavors include combos like strawberry/kiwi, mango/pineapple, orange/berry and other sweet, fresh ingredients.

Popular green smoothie ingredients include spinach, kale, romaine lettuce, cucumber, and one of my personal favorites - celery.

Shakes, on the other hand, are more likely to be based on healthy fat-based ingredients.

Popular shake flavors include vanilla, chocolate, caramel and peanut butter. The base of the shakes themselves is often a creamy ingredient like avocado, coconut milk or frozen banana.