 [ Symptoms ] do protein shakes make good snacks or are they only appropriate as meal replacements [ Disease ] it depends on the amount of calories always check the total calories of protein shakes if the shake is over 150 calories it is a meal replacement instead have a much less expensive glass of nonfat milk which is a protein drink too with only 86 calories per 8 ounces a cup of nonfat milk provides 8 grams of protein even a cup of fat free chocolate milk is a good option