What is equivalent to Boost Plus: Alternatives, Comparisons & Homemade Shakes

At 360 calories and 14 grams of protein per serving, Boost Plus is a high-calorie nutrition shake formulated for weight maintenance and gain. Finding what is equivalent to Boost Plus requires comparing nutritional content, considering dietary needs, and exploring different product types, from store-bought shakes to simple homemade alternatives.

Quick Summary

This guide compares nutritional drinks like Ensure Plus, high-protein shakes, and homemade recipes to identify products equivalent to Boost Plus, focusing on weight gain and nutritional completeness.

Key Points

• Ensure Plus: This is the most direct commercial equivalent, offering a very similar high-calorie, high-protein nutritional profile.

• Homemade Shakes: Blend high-calorie, natural ingredients like whole milk, bananas, oats, and nut butter for a customizable and often more cost-effective alternative.

• Boost VHC: For those needing an even higher calorie count than Boost Plus, Boost Very High Calorie (VHC) provides 530 calories per serving.

• Store Brands: Look for store-brand equivalents, like Walmart's Equate Plus, which offer similar nutrition at a lower price.

• Focus on Needs: The best equivalent depends on your specific health goals, dietary restrictions, and budget; always compare nutrient labels and ingredients.

Understanding Boost Plus's Nutritional Profile

Boost Plus is a complete nutritional shake designed to provide a high-calorie, high-protein boost to help individuals gain or maintain a healthy weight. Its key features include 360 calories, 14 grams of protein, and a blend of essential vitamins and minerals per serving. This makes it a popular choice for those with a low appetite, specific dietary needs, or for recovery from illness or surgery. When searching for an equivalent product, it's crucial to consider the balance of macronutrients (protein, carbs, fat) and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals) offered by competing products.

Why Seek an Equivalent to Boost Plus?

There are several reasons why someone might look for an alternative to Boost Plus:

• Dietary Restrictions: Individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to ingredients in Boost Plus, such as lactose, and may need a plant-based or dairy-free option.
• Flavor Preference: Some may simply dislike the available flavors and want more variety.
• Specific Health Goals: While Boost Plus is for general nutritional support, people with diabetes, for example, may need a drink with a different carbohydrate profile, like Boost Glucose Control or Ensure Glucerna.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Ready-to-drink shakes can be expensive, and homemade versions or alternative brands may offer a more budget-friendly solution.
• Availability: Some products may not be available in local stores or may be out of stock, necessitating a comparable substitute.

Commercial Alternatives to Boost Plus

Several commercial products offer similar nutritional profiles to Boost Plus. The most direct competitor is Ensure Plus, but other high-calorie and high-protein shakes also serve as viable alternatives.

Ensure Plus

Ensure Plus is the closest and most well-known equivalent to Boost Plus. Both products are designed for similar purposes, but there are minor differences in their specific nutritional content that may matter to some users.

Other Boost Varieties

Boost's own product line offers other options depending on specific calorie and protein needs. Boost Very High Calorie (VHC) is a good option for those who require an even bigger caloric boost, providing 530 calories per serving. Boost Max and High Protein shakes focus more on protein, which may be beneficial for muscle maintenance but less ideal for maximum calorie intake.

Store-Brand Equivalents

Many retailers, including Walmart and Target, offer store-brand nutritional shakes that mirror the calorie and protein content of national brands like Boost Plus and Ensure Plus at a lower price point. For instance, Walmart's Equate Plus brand provides a comparable 350 calories and 13 grams of protein.

High-Calorie Mass Gainer Powders

For those who need a substantial calorie and protein increase, especially for intensive weight gain or bodybuilding, mass gainer powders are an option. Products like Dymatize Super Mass Gainer pack over 1,200 calories per serving, though they typically contain higher amounts of protein and carbohydrates and require mixing.

Comparison Table: Boost Plus and Its Top Competitors

Feature	Boost Plus	Ensure Plus	Boost VHC	Equate Plus
Calories	360	350	530	350
Protein	14g	13g	22g	13g
Fat	14g	11g	N/A	N/A
Carbohydrates	45g	51g	N/A	N/A
Sugar	24g	22g	N/A	N/A
Micronutrients	Over 20 vitamins/minerals	Over 20 vitamins/minerals	Over 20 vitamins/minerals	Over 20 vitamins/minerals
Best For	Weight gain/maintenance	Weight gain/maintenance	Extreme calorie needs	Budget-friendly option

Homemade Nutritional Shake Equivalents

For a more natural, customizable, and cost-effective equivalent to Boost Plus, homemade shakes and smoothies are an excellent choice. You have complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your exact needs and taste preferences.

High-Calorie Homemade Shake Ingredients

To create a shake that mirrors the calorie and protein density of Boost Plus, you can use the following high-calorie, nutrient-rich ingredients:

• Protein Source: Greek yogurt, protein powder (whey, casein, pea), nuts, or nut butter.
• Calorie-Dense Base: Whole milk, full-fat yogurt, coconut milk, or avocado.
• Carbohydrates: Oats, frozen bananas, dates, or honey.
• Healthy Fats: Nut butters (peanut, almond), flax seed oil, chia seeds, or avocado.

Sample Homemade Recipe

One example of a high-calorie shake that serves as a great Boost Plus equivalent includes:

• 1 frozen banana
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 scoop whey protein powder
• 2 tbsp peanut butter
• 1 tbsp flax seed oil
• Optional: a handful of oats for extra calories and fiber.

Advantages of Homemade Shakes

• Ingredient Control: Avoid artificial flavors, sweeteners, or allergens.
• Cost-Effective: Often cheaper per serving than commercial products.
• Taste Customization: Create endless flavor combinations.
• Digestive Health: Can include ingredients like oats and seeds to boost fiber for gut health.

How to Choose the Right Equivalent

Choosing the best alternative depends on your specific goals and preferences. Consider the following steps:

1. Define Your Goal: Are you looking for a direct, high-calorie replacement, or do you need a different nutritional balance (e.g., more protein, lower sugar)?
2. Evaluate Your Dietary Needs: Check for any allergens or sensitivities you have. Some people may prefer plant-based options or a lactose-free formula.
3. Check Nutritional Labels: Compare the calorie, protein, and sugar content of potential alternatives to see how they stack up against Boost Plus.
4. Consider Cost: Weigh the convenience and cost of a ready-to-drink product versus a homemade shake.
5. Consult a Professional: If you have specific medical conditions or complex nutritional needs, consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized advice.

Conclusion

What is equivalent to Boost Plus isn't a single answer but a spectrum of alternatives tailored to individual needs. For a convenient, direct substitute, Ensure Plus is the most comparable option, with minor differences in macro-nutrient breakdown. For a higher calorie count, Boost Very High Calorie (VHC) is the in-brand choice, while store-brand versions offer budget-friendly similarities. Ultimately, for maximum control and customization, creating a homemade shake from high-calorie, nutrient-rich whole foods is often the most personalized and wholesome solution. Regardless of your choice, understanding the nutritional profile of Boost Plus and its alternatives empowers you to make an informed decision for your health goals. A good resource for comparing different brands is the Healthline article on Ensure vs. Boost.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Ensure Plus compare to Boost Plus?

Ensure Plus is very similar to Boost Plus, offering a comparable high-calorie and high-protein content for weight gain and maintenance. Key differences are minor, such as a slightly different carbohydrate or fat breakdown, so comparing labels is recommended.

Can I make a homemade shake equivalent to Boost Plus?

Yes, a homemade shake can be a great equivalent. Use ingredients like whole milk, Greek yogurt, protein powder, bananas, nut butter, and oats to create a calorie-dense, nutrient-rich beverage tailored to your preferences.

Are there more calorie-dense alternatives than Boost Plus?

Yes, for even higher calorie needs, Boost Very High Calorie (VHC) offers 530 calories per serving. Additionally, mass gainer powders used by bodybuilders, such as Dymatize Super Mass Gainer, provide very high calorie counts but are a different product category.

What is the best alternative for someone on a budget?

For those on a budget, store-brand nutritional shakes like Equate Plus from Walmart often provide similar nutritional value to Boost Plus at a lower price point. Homemade shakes with simple ingredients are another cost-effective option.

What if I have dietary restrictions, like lactose intolerance?

Many commercial brands offer lactose-free options or plant-based protein shakes. Homemade alternatives can easily be made with lactose-free milk or milk alternatives like soy or almond milk, along with plant-based protein powders.

Is it better to use a commercial shake or a homemade one?

The best choice depends on your needs. Commercial shakes offer convenience and consistent nutrition, while homemade shakes provide ingredient control, customization, and are often more cost-effective. Consult a healthcare provider for specific dietary concerns.

Are there alternatives for people with diabetes?

Yes, products like Boost Glucose Control and Ensure Glucerna are specifically formulated with a different carbohydrate profile to help manage blood sugar levels. Always consult your doctor or dietitian before changing your nutritional supplement regimen.