Malin Akerman said she replaced her usual chocolate indulgences with chocolate protein shakes while training for her starring role in Netflix’s The Hunting Wives, a regimen she described as part of a weeks‑long fitness program to prepare for intimate and physically demanding scenes.
The 47‑year‑old actor told TODAY that she worked with a professional trainer on both cardio and weight workouts and that swapping sweets for protein shakes helped satisfy her sweet tooth while fueling muscle repair and energy during the preparation period. Akerman, who co-stars with Brittany Snow in the series, said she still allows herself chocolate occasionally at the end of the day.
Protein shakes are commonly used as a supplemental source of dietary protein and typically contain about 15 to 30 grams of protein per serving, depending on the product and serving size. Nutrition experts say such shakes can help people meet increased protein needs associated with strength training, but they are not a replacement for whole foods and are best used alongside a balanced diet.
After intense exercise, the body requires both protein and carbohydrates to repair muscle and replenish glycogen stores. During activity, the body uses glucose from carbohydrates, fatty acids from fats and amino acids from protein to varying degrees depending on the intensity and duration of the workout. Akerman framed her use of shakes as a practical way to both satisfy cravings and support the recovery demands of a rigorous training schedule.
Consumers should be aware that protein powders and prepared shakes vary widely in composition. Some products contain minimal added sugar, while others include substantial amounts; labels on some powders list as much as 23 grams of added sugar per scoop. The American Heart Association’s guideline for added sugar is 24 grams per day for women and 36 grams for men.
Protein powders are made from a range of sources, including dairy, eggs and plant proteins such as soy, pea, rice, potato and hemp, and formulations often include additional ingredients such as flavorings, thickeners, vitamins and minerals. In the United States, protein powders are sold as dietary supplements, which means manufacturers are responsible for evaluating ingredient safety and labeling. The Food and Drug Administration does not approve dietary supplements for safety or efficacy before they reach the market.
Because of that regulatory framework, nutrition and consumer advocates recommend that buyers read ingredient lists carefully and look for products voluntarily certified by independent third‑party organizations that test for label accuracy and contaminants. Some research has also examined how concentrated supplements and their additives can affect the gut microbiome; disturbances to gut bacteria have been associated with conditions ranging from functional bowel disorders to altered immune responses, though scientists caution that evidence varies and ongoing study is needed.
Experts note that whole foods remain reliable sources of protein and other nutrients. Lean poultry, such as skinless chicken breast and turkey, are commonly cited for their protein density, and lean cuts of beef provide both protein and micronutrients such as iron and vitamin B12. Those alternatives can be used in combination with targeted supplementation depending on personal needs, dietary preferences and the guidance of a health professional.
Akerman’s comments highlight a common approach used by actors and athletes preparing for physically demanding roles: a combination of structured exercise, attention to macronutrient intake and practical substitutes to manage cravings. She emphasized the role of protein in fueling her workouts and recovery while maintaining occasional indulgences, an approach she described as sustainable during the show’s intense preparation period.