The Menopause Power Shake: A High-Protein, High-Fiber Daily Ritual

The Menopause Power Shake: A High-Protein, High-Fiber Daily Ritual

Written by The 'Pause Life Editors

Medically reviewed by Dr. Mary Claire Haver, MD, FACOG, MSCP 

The menopause protein shake delivers 50+ grams of protein, 20+ grams of fiber, plus collagen and creatine in one blended meal designed for women in perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause.

Dr. Haver's Power Shake was born out of her curiosity, some experimentation, and her genuine desire to feel better from the inside out. What started as a simple morning smoothie has evolved into a carefully balanced blend of nutrients designed to fuel energy, support muscle health and a healthy inflammatory response.* Over time, through trial, research, and a few tweaks along the way, this shake has become more than just a smoothie. It is one of her daily rituals rooted in nourishment, balance, and longevity.

Before noon, she's easily hitting over 50 grams of protein, over 20 grams of fiber, and several plant varieties. For her, that is not a flex, it's a strategy.

Why Do Protein and Fiber Matter So Much in Midlife?

During the menopause transition, changes in estrogen are associated with changes in muscle mass and body composition. Getting enough protein, paired with resistance training, becomes especially important for supporting muscle and strength as you age.

Dr. Haver recommends aiming for 1.5 to 1.8 grams of protein per kilogram of preferred body weight daily. Use this protein calculator to determine your unique protein range, which can be adjusted to consider your age, activity level, and health goals.

Fiber is equally non-negotiable. Most women aren't getting enough of it. Fiber supports digestive health and regularity*, and different fiber-rich foods give you another reason to keep plenty of plants in rotation. 

A single well-constructed shake can make a serious dent in both targets before your day even gets going.

The Base Recipe: The Menopause Power Shake

This is the foundation. The base recipe delivers 50+ g of protein, including about 41g of complete protein, 20 grams of fiber, and a variety of nutrient-dense ingredients in one blender-friendly package.

Ingredients:

Boosters:

  • 1 cup frozen mixed berries

  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds

  • 1 tablespoon flaxseed

  • 1 tablespoon hemp seeds

  • Ice and water to fill a 24 oz cup

Blend and go. The berries provide anthocyanins, antioxidant compounds that support brain and cardiovascular health. The seeds layer in omega-3 fatty acids, additional fiber, and plant-based protein. Skin & Bone contains VERISOL® and FORTIBONE® collagen peptides, which have been clinically studied for skin elasticity and bone health.* Creatine, paired with resistance training, has been studied for its role in supporting strength in women over 40, and researchers are also exploring its role in brain energy metabolism.*

Note: Want to save this recipe? Print or bookmark it from our Help Center for easy access.

Can You Make This Menopause Protein Shake Diary-Free?

Greek yogurt is the protein base in this recipe, but it is not the only option. If you are dairy-free, lactose intolerant, or simply prefer plant-based choices, here is how to swap without sacrificing nutrition.

Coconut yogurt (unsweetened): Creamy and thick, it blends beautifully. Look for brands with live active cultures. Protein content is lower, around 1 to 2 grams per serving, so you may want to compensate with a higher-protein protein powder or add extra hemp seeds.

Soy yogurt: The closest plant-based match to Greek yogurt in terms of protein, offering around 6 to 9 grams per 3/4 cup. 

High-protein oat milk or pea milk: Brands like Ripple or Silk Protein offer 8 to 10 grams of protein per cup. Swap the yogurt for 1 to 1.5 cups of pea milk as your liquid base, and you maintain a solid protein foundation.

Silken tofu (1/2 cup blended in): An underrated smoothie addition. It disappears into the texture and adds 7 to 8 grams of complete plant protein with a subtle creaminess that works especially well with berry flavors.

No matter which base you choose, pair it with a high-quality plant-based protein powder (pea, rice, or a blend) if your aim is to reach the 50-gram protein target. Note: Protein + Creatine contains milk. For a dairy-free shake, use a plant-based protein powder plus your favorite standalone creatine.

What Fruits Work Best in a High Fiber Menopause Protein Shake?

Frozen mixed berries are the default for good reason: they are affordable, convenient, rich in antioxidants, and relatively low in sugar. But rotating your fruit is one of the easiest ways to increase plant diversity, keep things interesting, and target specific nutritional benefits.

Tart cherries: Contains melatonin precursors and anti-inflammatory compounds. Research links tart cherry consumption to improved sleep quality and reduced muscle soreness, both of which are common concerns in perimenopause.

Mango: Rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene. Pairs well with collagen for skin support. Use frozen chunks to keep the shake thick and cold.

Pineapple: Contains bromelain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties. Adds brightness and sweetness without a high glycemic hit when paired with fiber-rich seeds.

Pomegranate seeds or pomegranate juice (~2 tablespoons): Emerging research suggests pomegranate may support estrogen metabolism and cardiovascular health in menopausal women. A small addition goes a long way in flavor and function.

Green banana or plantain (frozen slices): Surprisingly neutral in flavor and high in resistant starch, a prebiotic fiber that feeds gut bacteria and supports blood sugar stability.

Stone fruits such as peaches or nectarines: Fresh or frozen, they add another plant variety and work especially well in summer versions of the shake.

How to Add Even More Protein, Fiber, and Collagen

Once you have your base dialed in, these add-ins let you customize the shake to your specific goals for the day.

For more protein:

  • 2 tablespoons of spirulina powder 

  • 1/4 cup rolled oats blended in 

  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened almond butter or sunflower seed butter 

For more fiber:

  • White beans or chickpeas for a surprising protein and fiber double hit

  • Avocado for fiber plus monounsaturated fats and satiety

  • Cacao nibs for insoluble fiber with a cardiovascular flavanol bonus

  • Chicory root powder is the most seamless prebiotic addition, but frozen Jerusalem artichokes or mango are great options

For gut and metabolic support:

  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (supports glycemic response)

  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (support for insulin sensitivity)

  • 1 tablespoon cacao powder for chocolate flavor and naturally occurring flavanols

  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder with a pinch of black pepper 

How to Customize the Menopause Protein Shake

The Menopause Power Shake continues to evolve alongside the science of nutrition and alongside Dr. Haver's own wellness journey. What started as a morning smoothie has become a vehicle for meeting her body where it is right now: in midlife, navigating hormonal change, prioritizing strength over the scale, and choosing nourishment over calorie restriction.

Plant diversity matters more than perfection, and consistency matters more than optimization. Strong matters more than skinny, and we're here for this evolution.

Use this recipe as a starting point. Adjust the flavors, swap the base, rotate the fruit, and layer in the add-ins that serve your goals. The goal is to show up for your body every day with intention, information, and something genuinely delicious in the blender. Or, if you prefer, combine everything in a bowl for a delicious parfait.

Love this recipe? Save it on Pinterest so you can find it again.

And remember, while a nutrient-dense shake can be a convenient way to increase protein and fiber intake, overall dietary quality, including whole foods, resistance exercise, sleep, and adequate calcium and vitamin D are the foundation of healthy aging. 

Consult with your healthcare practitioner before using this product. If you are pregnant, nursing, allergic, have a medical condition (especially individuals with pre-existing kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure), or taking medications, consult a doctor before using this or any other dietary supplement. Do not use if safety seal is open or damaged. Keep out of reach of children.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Sources

Bauer, J., Biolo, G., Cederholm, T., Cesari, M., Cruz-Jentoft, A. J., Morley, J. E., Phillips, S., Sieber, C., Stehle, P., Teta, D., Visvanathan, R., Volpi, E., & Boirie, Y. (2013). Evidence-based recommendations for optimal dietary protein intake in older people: A position paper from the PROT-AGE Study Group. Journal of the American Medical Directors Association, 14(8), 542–559. PubMed

Dos Santos, E. E. P., de Araújo, R. C., Candow, D. G., Forbes, S. C., Guijo, J. A., & de Almeida Santana, C. C. (2021). Efficacy of creatine supplementation combined with resistance training on muscle strength and muscle mass in older females: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrients, 13(11), 3757. PubMed

Jäger, R., Kerksick, C. M., Campbell, B. I., Cribb, P. J., Wells, S. D., Skwiat, T. M., Purpura, M., Ziegenfuss, T. N., Ferrando, A. A., Arent, S. M., Smith-Ryan, A. E., Stout, J. R., Arciero, P. J., Ormsbee, M. J., Taylor, L. W., Wilborn, C. D., Kalman, D. S., Kreider, R. B., Willoughby, D. S., ... Antonio, J. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: Protein and exercise. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14, 20. PubMed

König, D., Oesser, S., Scharla, S., Zdzieblik, D., & Gollhofer, A. (2018). Specific collagen peptides improve bone mineral density and bone markers in postmenopausal women: A randomized controlled study. Nutrients, 10(1), 97. PubMed

Kreider, R. B., Kalman, D. S., Antonio, J., Ziegenfuss, T. N., Wildman, R., Collins, R., Candow, D. G., Kleiner, S. M., Almada, A. L., & Lopez, H. L. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: Safety and efficacy of creatine supplementation in exercise, sport, and medicine. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14, 18. PubMed

Proksch, E., Segger, D., Degwert, J., Schunck, M., Zague, V., & Oesser, S. (2014). Oral supplementation of specific collagen peptides has beneficial effects on human skin physiology: A double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 27(1), 47–55. PubMed
Losso JN, Finley JW, Karki N, Liu AG, Prudente A, Tipton R, Yu Y, Greenway FL. Pilot Study of the Tart Cherry Juice for the Treatment of Insomnia and Investigation of Mechanisms. Am J Ther. 2018 Mar/Apr;25(2):e194-e201. doi: 10.1097/MJT.0000000000000584. PMID: 28901958; PMCID: PMC5617749.

Related Reading

Stay in the Know

Stay current on the science, and never miss a new resource from Dr. Haver.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much protein should women over 40 get per day?

Dr. Haver recommends aiming for 1.5 to 1.8 grams of protein per kilogram of preferred body weight per day. Your individual needs can vary based on factors including activity level and health goals. Use The 'Pause Life's protein calculator to estimate your protein range.

How much fiber does this menopause protein shake have?

The base recipe provides more than 20 grams of fiber. The exact amount will vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use.

Does this protein shake include collagen, and what does it do?

Yes. Dr. Haver's base recipe includes 'Pause Nutrition Skin & Bone Collagen. The formula contains VERISOL® collagen peptides, which may help support skin elasticity and hydration, and FORTIBONE® collagen peptides, which may help support bone mineral density as part of a bone-health routine.*

Can I make this shake without a blender?

Yes. All ingredients can be combined in a bowl to make a high-protein parfait instead. Add your choice of yogurt to a bowl and thoroughly mix in any powdered protein, fiber, creatine and/or collagen supplements. Layer the fruit and seeds on top. Enjoy!