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Is Drinking Boost Healthy?

Jun 3, 2011 | By Brian Willett
Is Drinking Boost Healthy?
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Boost is a nutritional drink intended to act as a meal replacement or healthy on-the-go snack, as it provides a blend of protein, carbohydrates and fat, as well as vitamins and minerals. Although Boost may not seamlessly integrate with your nutritional plan, it does provide vital nutrients, and can be a healthy addition to your diet. Check product labels, as nutritional values may vary based on serving size.

Calorie Content

Boost is calorie-dense, with 240 calories in an 8 oz. bottle. If you are active, this can be beneficial; 240 calories is more than enough to fuel an hour-long weightlifting session. If you are trying to lose weight, Boost may not be ideal; an 8 oz. bottle of Boost provides more than twice the calories in an 8 oz. can of soda.

Protein Content

Boost can be beneficial because it is rich in protein, supplying 10 g in an 8 oz. bottle, which is 2 g more than milk provides. Protein is essential for your health, as it helps your body repair and build tissues such as muscle and skin. Research from the February 2002 issue of "Journal of the American College of Nutrition" also suggests that protein-rich diets can be more effective than lower protein diets for weight loss.

Fat Content

Boost is low in fat, with 4 g per bottle, and just 0.5 g comes from saturated fat. Saturated fat is considered unhealthy, as it can increase your cholesterol levels, which can lead to an increased risk of heart disease. Some dietary fat is essential for proper health, as it can help your body absorb nutrients and fuel endurance activities, so Boost's fat content is beneficial.

Carbohydrate Content

Boost is rich in carbohydrates, which provide your body with energy, so it can be helpful for athletic activity. However, 23 g of the carbohydrates come from sugar, which can promote tooth decay and other health issues. Additionally, the Harvard Medical School suggests that drinking high-sugar beverages regularly can increase your risk of diabetes and obesity, as the thin consistency of the drinks does not trigger your body's satiety cues.

Vitamins and Minerals

Boost is rich in vitamins, including vitamin D and vitamins C and E, which are considered antioxidants. Antioxidants protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are released by physical stress. Boost contains a number of minerals, including selenium and calcium, which promotes bone strength.

Allergen Information

Boost can be healthy for those who have celiac disease or lactose intolerance, as the drink is gluten- and lactose-free.

References

Article reviewed by Elizabeth Ahders Last updated on: Jun 3, 2011

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