This post is sponsored by Abbott, the makers of Ensure Max Protein.

As most of you know, I’ve been following a low carb diet for a while now. One of the things that I’ve missed most is the taste of chocolate, so when I found out that Ensure Max Protein comes in a delicious milk chocolate flavor with 30 grams of high-quality protein and 1 gram of sugar, I was hooked. I am a busy, single mom so I love that I can drink an Ensure Max Protein from the comfort of my desk or car and still get the protein that I need to meet my health goals. All of this in an easy to drink, eco-friendly bottle. While it is best when served cold, it does not require refrigeration so that makes it easy for those of us who are constantly on the go.

After drinking Ensure Max Protein for a few mornings, I realized that I was staying full longer and not splurging on unnecessary food at lunch. This is important because I had been feeling like I was eating too much cheese for a while, so by making this one simple change, I was able to eliminate one snack a day. I simply didn’t need it anymore.

Protein is SO important to a healthy lifestyle. People often think about protein as building strong muscles for athletes or “staying full,” but there are many health benefits of protein – including weight management and metabolism benefits. Surprisingly, new data from Abbott and the Ohio State University shows more than 1 in 3 adults 50+ aren’t getting the protein they need. By drinking Ensure Max Protein each morning before heading to work, I am getting the right amount of protein for my age and lifestyle.

Did you know that people who miss their protein intake recommendations are less likely to eat the recommended amount of healthy foods such as greens and beans, seafood and plant proteins and dairy? That’s another reason protein is critical, especially as you age.

Curious about how much protein you need each day? You can calculate it with one of the many meal trackers available online. I used an app to determine my macros (fats, protein, carbs and calories), and then I track everything that goes in my mouth each day. This helps to keep me on track and accountable while helping to ensure that I’m meeting my protein and calorie goals.

Another great benefit is that the Ensure Max Protein Café Mocha flavor has 100 mg of caffeine, which is the same amount in a cup of coffee. This was a huge benefit for me because I cut out all soda two months ago and I have been missing my caffeine buzz in the mornings. (I am not a coffee drinker.)

All in all, I am very pleased with Ensure Max Protein and hope that you give it a try if you are looking for something that will help you meet your nutrition goals. To get your own, head to Target.

Abbott partnered with influencers such as me for its Ensure Program. As part of this Program, I received compensation for my time. Abbott/Ensure believes that consumers and influencers are free to form their own opinions and share them in their own words. Abbott/Ensure policies align with WOMMA Ethics Code, Federal Trade Commission (FTC) guidelines and social media engagement recommendations.