In this fast-paced and busy world, we may not be getting the nutrition we like. Nutrient deficiency is real and can present itself in numerous ways, including unwanted fat, stress eating and feeling constantly depleted.
Meal replacement shakes are wonderful innovations that seek to solve problems like these. Just add a scoop or two to a bottle or glass, fill it with milk or cold water and you get vital nutrients, as well as vitamins and minerals.
Whether as a weight-loss tool or as a convenient shake you can chug in-between meals, you can count on these 13 best meal replacement shakes to save the day.
When we tried Instant Knockout’s Complete meal replacement shake, we were blown away. This product truly stands out for its quality ingredients, dosage, and value for money. It’s almost like a real meal, except it’s better for you!
The plant-based protein content is impressive at 35 grams per serving, and the 35 grams of carbs provide a great energy source. The 13 grams of slow-digesting fiber are perfect for keeping you feeling full for longer, making it an ideal option for those looking to manage their weight.
We were impressed by the high-quality ingredients, including pea protein, soy, flaxseed, MCT, oat flour, organic brown rice, chia seed, and more. All of these ingredients come together to create a nutritious and delicious meal replacement shake that will keep you going all day.
What’s more, when paired with Instant Knockout’s Cut fat burner, it’s part of the Instant Knockout System. The two products work in synergy to give you the best results possible.
Pricing is very reasonable when compared to other meal replacement shakes, and you can even get free shipping when you buy multiple pouches. In our experience, there’s simply no better meal replacement shake on the market than Instant Knockout’s Complete.
Pros
Can be used with their fat burner for amplified results
13 grams of fiber per serving to keep you fuller longer
Less expensive per meal
Features a mighty 35 grams of protein per serving featuring pea protein
Buying multiple pouches gets you free shipping in the US and UK
PhenQ Meal Replacement Shake is a great, easy way to get that nutrient-packed shake you need when you just don’t have the time. Get the protein and vitamins your body needs while also keeping cravings at bay with this keto-friendly shake made from 100% plant-based nutrients.
Two scoops give you essential protein, carbs and fat from natural and healthy sources, and at just 254 calories you’ll be hitting your daily macros consistently. Fiber is the key to letting go of excess weight from food, and you get 2 grams of it along with MCT, BCAAs and all that vitamins and minerals.
PhenQ curbs your cravings as you go on a diet by filling you up with pea protein and brown rice protein. The taste is something to write home about, and you get to choose between Vanilla and chocolate.
Why is it the best meal replacement shake for weight loss?
It’s the best for weight loss because you get all those great ingredients and vitamins and minerals and it only has 254 calories. Think about how easy weight loss will be when your lunch is only 254 calories.
No matter the reason for your weight loss, PhenQ has your back. Whether it’s curbing appetite or giving you the macros to sustain energy, the meal replacement is as close as it gets to a real meal. Every calorie is bursting with beneficial stuff so you won’t feel guilty taking them every day. And when you need a cheat, just add a scoop and your body will hardly notice.
Pros
Superior to the Fit & Lean Meal Shake Fat Burning Meal Replacement
Having trouble putting on some serious muscle mass and need a meal replacement that can do the job? Look no further than Mass Gainer by Transparent Labs. It’s the product we’d recommend and the brand we’d stand by because of how they raise the bar on supplement standards.
Transparent Labs outright puts out the benefits of drinking their meal replacement shake. It’s targeted towards athletes and bodybuilders who want to step up a weight class and lay the foundation, muscle-wise. We love how every serving has 53 grams of pure grass-fed whey concentrate protein, 109 grams of clean carbs, 12g of fat and a whopping 750 calories total. In case you’re wondering, the carb sources are sweet potato, oat and organic tapioca.
As with any quality meal shake, you get the requisite MCT and coconut milk powder, but this one has creatine monohydrate for that extra punch come gym or workout time. No, there are no additives, food dyes and sweeteners to mar the product- you get monk fruit and Stevia rounding out the ingredients mix. There are also 8 grams of dietary fiber for your gut.
Protein Series Mass Gainer comes in Cookies n’ Cream (which isn’t gluten-free and Sweet Vanilla. Both taste really good and you’ll hardly believe they’re not desserts. For maximum potency, it’s recommended that you use milk as your liquid. The manufacturer ships out their products quickly and internationally, too.
Just like the MRP powder above you can save money on Mass Gainer by buying multiple tubs and you can also use the coupon code TL10 at checkout to save 10%.
If you want to get big, this is the one for you.
Pros
Great for packing in lean muscle
High in protein – 53 grams of protein per serving is a class in itself
When drinking meal replacement shakes you don’t want them to taste like dirt. Some of them are literally hard to swallow. No matter how packed they are with clean protein, carbs and all that stuff, not a lot of people will buy them because of the gnarly gastronomic experience.
If you’ve been burned in the taste department before, then we’d wholly recommend you refresh your palate and try the Clean Meal by Kaged Muscle. It comes in 3 flavors, Vanilla Cake is the one I personally tested, and it was VERY good. They also have Snickerdoodle flavor and Peanut Butter Chocolate if you want something different.
Kaged Muscle has managed to come up with a miracle with Clean Meal. What’s surprising is that there are no added sugars, no fillers, or creamers. The powder mixes very well with ice water or milk, and even when you use a shaker bottle for bringing it with you to the gym. When I tried the Vanilla Cake flavor it mixed well with both milk and water, it also tasted great with both, but I prefer it with milk even though the manufacturer says to take it with water.
Clean Meal isn’t a slouch in the nutrition department, either. The highlight is easily the whey protein isolate from that allows for 28g of clean protein and 18g of carbs per serving from oat flour and organic quinoa powder. The whole thing is scientifically formulated and manufactured in a cGMP facility for quality and efficacy.
Clean Meal is the go-to shake when you want something that is nutritious and tastes good.
You can get all the details and more information in our in-depth Clean Meal Review.
Authentic MRP should be the gold standard for meal replacement taste and value. In case you’re wondering, Jacked Factory’s shake is the best-tasting of them all, and at the listed price point there’s nothing to complain about either!
Each serving only costs you over a dollar, and in comparison gets you a naked hotdog for the same price. However, the similarities end there, because not only are you getting quality whey protein, carbs and healthy fats, you’re also getting MCT and several essential minerals in the process.
Cheap doesn’t have to mean mediocre. Every package is manufactured in a cGMP facility, made in the US and scientifically formulated to support lean muscle growth and recovery. There’s even a 100% hassle-free money-back guarantee for those who are on the fence.
Pros
Budget-friendly yet packed with whey protein, fat and calories
No sugar, artificial flavoring and GMOs
Good for building muscle
Loaded with essential nutrients
Cons
Uses artificial flavoring
Has 4.5 grams of saturated fat
Check Price
Bestfor Vegans
MacroMeal Vegan Chocolate by Macrolife
Vegans will no longer have a hard time shopping for a suitable meal replacement, thanks to MacroMeal by Macrolife. The addition of beneficial enzymes and probiotics round out an already excellent product that deserves a spot on our list.
This vegan meal replacement drink is keto-friendly and gluten-free. You get a generous dosing of protein at 25 grams from plant-based, non-GMO sources. MCT becomes moot here, as are superfoods that you might be missing out on when you eat your daily meals. Specifically, each serving of the MacroMeal will give you a blend of ‘Ultimate’ greens and reds such as acai, beet juice, chlorella, spirulina, barley and maca, among others. There are also 3 billion probiotics and digestive enzymes to improve absorption, and the essential 5g of fiber to wash out the waste.
Price is a bit higher than the other meal replacements but it’s understandable given the fact that you get premium ingredients. There’s only one flavor, which is chocolate but it’s one of the best-tasting vegan meal replacement drinks we’ve ever come across. Thankfully they often run promotions such as staggered payment options, free shipping and discounts.
Pros
Well-rounded ingredients, notably fiber, superfoods and MCT
Macrolife often runs promotions and offers to save you money
Shopping for a meal replacement, keto diet-wise may seem like an impossible task, and for this reason, we’ll save you the time by recommending an excellent product upfront.
Meet the HLTH Code Complete Meal, a one-of-a-kind meal replacement shake that caters to the keto crowd. The single most important feature is the super low carb count at just 13 grams so you won’t go over your daily quota. Fat is at a welcome 27g, fiber stands at 9g, and 27 grams of protein is generously mixed in for good measure.
Complete Meal is formulated by a metabolic scientist for a 1:1 ratio of protein and healthy fats. Speaking of which, the protein is sourced from egg whites, whey and grass-fed collagen. You get the prerequisite vitamins and minerals, omega 3 and omega 6 content, fiber, probiotics and digestive enzymes in the form of apple cider vinegar. For flavoring, HLTH relies on natural monk fruit, cocoa and Stevia to create its Creamy Vanilla and Chocolate Macadamia. As for the calories, you get 400 per serving.
The official website does run promotions every now and then, and you can get significant savings when buying in bulk. It’s the only shake you need when you’re on a keto diet.
Pros
Good mix of keto-friendly macro and micronutrients
There’s a very fine line between gaining weight and muscle building, but both have a common goal- building lean muscle mass. This is why we think it’s best to have a separate category but a shared product between them.
Now, when talking about muscle building, staple supplements such as pre-workouts and post-workouts come into play. These powders serve not only to lay the foundation in protein but give a boost in the energy and stamina department as well. Mass Gainer is actually perfect in this regard since you’ll be getting 100% grass-fed whey concentrate, long-lasting carbs in the form of sweet potato, oat and tapioca and MCTs and coconut milk powder for stamina-boosting aspects.
What makes Mass Gainer a viable muscle-building meal replacement is the addition of creatine monohydrate. Athletes and bodybuilders will know the benefits of supplementing with it, and Transparent Labs has been keen enough to add it to their product.
You won’t need to substitute water for milk if your goal is to build muscle. As always, we recommend you go with a workout program so you can build maximum lean muscle with Transparent Lab’s meal replacement shake. It’s good value for money, and you can get free shipping in the US for orders of $150 or more.
Pros
Has creatine monohydrate
Tops out other meal replacement shakes in protein and calories
Meal replacement is a really good idea if you’re trying to control your sugar and carb intake. There’s no need to calculate portions, ingredients and serving sizes- just read the nutrition label and mete out the recommended scoops, and voila! You’re satiated and you meet the recommended daily requirements.
Should you want to take sugar control to the next level, there’s 310 Meal Replacement Shake. Each glass is only a little over a hundred calories and 100% free from soy, dairy, gluten, GMOs and artificial sweeteners. Net carbs are kept intentionally low and the product is keto-friendly to a degree as well.
What we love about 310 MRS is the sheer number of available flavors you can choose from. There’s the organic Unflavored, standard Vanilla and Chocolate and must-tried Salted Caramel, Chocolate Mint, Toasted Coconut, Mocha, Gingerbread, Peppermint Swirl, Horchata, S’mores and Cookies n’ Cream. There’s also Chocolate Icing and Vanilla Cake rounding out the list.
As delicious as they sound there are no artificial or excess sugars that could ruin your health. 2g of carbs and zero artificial sweeteners sound good, but then 310nutrition managed to pack in superfoods such as turmeric, beetroot, spinach and spirulina in their organic forms.
Try one, or get the starter kit or shake the box to find your sweet spot. Either way, you’ll be well on your way to a healthier version of yourself!
Pros
Only 2g of carbs and 110 calories per serving
One of the most varied flavor options we’ve seen in a meal replacement shake
It’s not enough that you aim for the lowest possible carb content in a good meal replacement shake. You’ll want it sourced from clean and organic ingredients and surrounded by a complement of healthy nutrition. HLTH Code nails this perfectly on the head and this is why we chose it for our ‘best low carb’ category.
Meal Replacement boasts a low carb count at 4 grams while upping the healthy fats at 27g. It’s good for inducing ketogenesis while keeping you satiated and full for a long time. In the sweetener department, you get a low glycemic monk fruit and next-gen Stevia, which explains the absence of a bitter aftertaste.
HLTH Code’s meal replacement has unique ingredients in apple cider vinegar, digestive enzymes, probiotics and beneficial fiber. Its fat content comes from grass-fed ghee, cocoa butter, flaxseed, olive oil and coconut oil. As for protein, you get a spectrum of grass-fed collagen, egg whites, and whey.
There are only a few low-carb shakes in the market, but we can say with confidence that Meal Replacement is the best out there.
Pros
Low carbs sourced from excellent ingredients
High satiety from healthy fat content
Comes with a full complement of ACV, gut enzymes and probiotics
When it comes to scoping out the primo meal replacement shake for men, Transparent Labs MRP is definitely a top-of-the-line contender. This shake has got some serious satiating power, leaving you feeling fuller for longer periods of time.
While its calorie count per scoop may be on the lower side compared to other meal replacement drinks on the market, weighing in at 210 to 220 calories, it still delivers on taste and nutrition with its high macro game.
Speaking of macros, this shake has got some impressive numbers: 7g of fat, 19g of carbs, and 24g of protein in each three-scoop serving for the Chocolate flavor (Vanilla has 16 grams of carbs). The protein content is particularly noteworthy, as it helps to support those gains and repairs those muscles. Plus, with five grams of fiber per serving, this shake can help with satiation by passing through your body without being absorbed.
All in all, Transparent Labs MRP is the real deal for men who are on the hunt for a meal replacement shake that packs both nutritional and satisfaction punches.
Pros
Excellent Taste
Great mix of ingredients for well-rounded nutrition
Plenty of calories to stifle hunger and cravings
Cons
Only 2 flavors are available
Only available at the manufacturer’s website
Check Price
Best Meal Replacements for Women
PhenQ Meal Replacement Shake
For women seeking the ultimate meal replacement shake, PhenQ Meal Replacement Shake is the one to beat. This shake is an easy and convenient way to get all the nutrients your body needs, even when you’re short on time. Plus, it’s keto-friendly and made entirely from plant-based sources to keep cravings at bay.
With just two scoops, you’ll get essential protein, carbs, and fat from natural and healthy sources. And at only 254 calories, this shake helps you consistently hit your daily macros. PhenQ also includes 2 grams of fiber, MCT, BCAAs, and a host of vitamins and minerals that are crucial for overall health.
What sets PhenQ apart from other shakes is its ability to curb cravings with the help of pea protein and brown rice protein. And the taste is nothing short of incredible, with delicious Vanilla and Chocolate options to choose from.
So why is PhenQ the best meal replacement shake for weight loss? It’s all about the balance of ingredients. You get all the necessary nutrients and vitamins in one low-calorie package, making weight loss easier than ever before. With PhenQ, every calorie is bursting with beneficial ingredients, so you won’t feel guilty taking it every day. And if you need a cheat, just add an extra scoop and your body won’t even notice. Whether you’re trying to curb your appetite or sustain your energy levels, PhenQ has got your back.
310 Nutrition has the top meal replacement shake we’ve seen on Amazon, and that’s saying a lot. There are literally hundreds of them on the platform but if you want to skip the trial and error part this is what we’d recommend.
This meal replacement can serve up nutritional goodness at just over a hundred calories and 2 grams of carbs. Whole, fresh foods and plant-based protein lead the charge here- you get pumpkin, brown rice and pea protein, and notable superfoods such as beetroot, spirulina, turmeric and spinach, among others. Artificial sweeteners, sugar, soy, dairy and gluten are absent here which makes it a refreshing product (and a unique one at that).
As far as meal replacement shakes go 310 has nailed it on the head. And we haven’t discussed one of the best parts yet- the wealth of interesting flavors you can try!
There’s Chocolate Icing, Vanilla Cake, Cookies n Cream, S’Mores, Horchata, Peppermint Swirl, Mocha, Gingerbread, Toasted Coconut, Chocolate Mint, Chocolate, Vanilla, Salted Caramel and Unflavored. We swear that if you’d close your eyes while drinking it you’d think that food was blended and served as a smoothie.
Reviews on Amazon are overwhelmingly positive, which makes buying the meal replacement shake by 310 nutrition a confidence purchase.
You probably don’t want to go with just any old protein bar as a meal replacement. Some of those bars are pretty dinky and won’t even come close to satisfying you, which will just lead to more snacking. Not to mention the fact that most meal replacement bars out there taste like dirt.
You want a decent-sized bar that has a good amount of protein that tastes good? Uncut Bars from Transparent Labs are the answer.
Uncut Bars bars deliver 18 grams of whey isolate protein along with 24 carbs, 16 grams of fat, and 3 grams of fiber.
The best part about these bars is they actually taste good. They come in Chocolate Chip and Chocolate Coffee flavors. I have had both and the Chocolate Coffee is clearly the better of the two, although the Chocolate Chip flavor is still respectable.
Want more good news? These meal replacement bars are made from natural ingredients like almonds, honey, whey protein isolate, coffee beans, chocolate chips, and cocoa butter. All the good stuff and no ingredients that you can’t even pronounce.
Also, they don’t use ingredients like palm kernel oils or artificial sweeteners. There aren’t any GMOs or preservatives and the bars are gluten-free,
If you want a solid meal replacement bar, try the Uncut Bars, they are tasty, made with solid ingredients, and are more convenient than meal replacement shakes.
These bars are a bit on the pricey side, use coupon code TL10 at checkout and that will save you 10%.
Pros
Taste great
Use all-natural ingredients
18 grams of whey isolate protein
Low in saturated fat and cholesterol
Better than Life Raw Organic Meal
Cons
Above average in price
Can only be bought at the manufacturer’s website
Check Price
How We Decided on the Best Meal Replacement Shakes
There are meal replacement powders for adding mass, losing weight, for women, and even those that are formulated with the keto diet in mind. However, it all boils down to four important factors- taste, nutrients, reviews and fiber.
Taste
How a meal replacement shake tastes provides immediate feedback on whether you should continue using it or not. It’s very hard to follow through with your regimen if the food you’re eating is bland (or in this case, yucky) and you’re not getting a great gastronomic experience.
For this reason, we decided that taste should be a factor in how we came up with the top meal replacement drinks list. The best ones have worked some sort of wizardry where the taste is fairly accurate to the label, e.g., S’mores taste exactly like how you remember them, and so on and forth. These deserve to be included in our opinion.
Nutrients
A make-or-break kind of element in a complete meal replacement is its contents. It’s easy to just put in a thousand calories and call it a day, but that wouldn’t be a healthy meal replacement, would it?
We sifted through dozens of MRPs in the market in search of a true replacement for whole foods, such as meat, vegetables and fruits. Those that have added bonuses, such as probiotics, digestive enzymes and superfoods get the nod, and specialty ones too, such as meal reps for men, women, the diabetic and vegans, among others.
The more complete a meal is in the nutrition department with vitamins and minerals, the more deserving it is to be called a true replacement.
Reviews
User experience in the meal replacement genre can have a sort of disparity, where we could claim that a shake tastes good while the majority say the mixture is as delicious as a vat of salt. In this case, we try to strike a balance by hearing what other people have to say about a particular meal replacement drink.
It’s pretty straightforward- does X brand get good reviews on major platforms? Then it’s definitely worth a look. What good things and bad things are they saying? Then, we try the product and see if the claims have a solid basis.
Fiber
You could be wondering, why is fiber so important that it deserves its own category? and, why can’t it be a part of the nutrients section?
Fiber is an oft-overlooked part of nutrition, but it’s the tiny details that separate the great meal replacement shake powders from the rest. If a shake has it in the recommended amounts then we can say with confidence that it’s already worth a try.
Can You Live On Just Meal Replacement Shakes?
It’s certainly tempting to just forego the tedious stuff in eating, such as chewing and swallowing and sitting down. Why spend half an hour or more (when you factor in cooking) when you could use that time working out, building muscle or resting?
Mathematically speaking, a complete meal replacement can be a real replacement for food. There’s the protein, carbs, fat and calories, and a complement of gut enzymes, probiotics, fiber and vitamins and minerals. However, it’s not that simple because actual food contains more than just those.
So the answer to the question is no, you can’t just drink meal replacement shakes. Somewhere down the line, you’ll be missing out on what makes whole foods healthier and more nutritious than their meal replacement counterparts.
The processed version of the nutrients in meal replacement drinks are inferior to the nutrients you get when you sit down with a balanced meal of chicken, broccoli and rice. There are the little things- the antioxidants, the organic aspect of it all and the human nature of sitting down and partaking in a nutritious meal.
Meal replacements are intended to fill out your nutritional gaps- some probiotics here and there, a bit of MCT and of course, the proteins and healthy fats that aren’t present in most everyday foods. Treat it that way and you’ll do just fine.
The answer is yes, certainly. There are MRPs designed to do exactly that- our recommendation is the PhenQ Shake along with Instant Knockout Cut Complete. If you’re looking to lose weight on a budget then you can pick up the Authentic MRP by Jacked Factory for cheap.
The trick to a successful weight loss regimen is to avoid calorie-laden foods, bingeing out, and have the discipline to opt to eat a low-calorie diet meal and replacements instead, which have fewer calories. Also, incorporate an exercise routine that’s designed to melt fat and build up lean muscle, and follow through with it until you see results.
Benefits of Meal Replacement Shakes
Ever craved a meal but found yourself either on the clock or just not in the mood to cook? Enter meal replacement shakes and bars, your hunger-busting saviors. You know those moments when you’re bulking up, aiming for that extra calorie punch, or maybe you’re just seeking a fuss-free meal while on the move, or perhaps, feeling a tad too lazy to cook – that’s when these meal replacements stride in, making sure your dietary goals don’t suffer a setback.
If you’re a bodybuilder, you’re well aware of the Herculean task of maintaining a hefty calorie intake to bolster your muscle growth. Now, spending hours in the kitchen whipping up meals might not be your favorite pastime. That’s precisely where these meal replacement shakes and bars become your culinary comrades. A few sips or bites, and there you have it, all the nutrients your body needs wrapped in a delicious, easy-to-gulp package – no kitchen drudgery required.
On the run? Meal replacement shakes have your back. Forget about shelling out an exorbitant sum on airport food or making do with a tiny bag of in-flight peanuts. You can simply whip up some protein powder into a shake or grab a bar on the go. Now that’s what I call satisfying your hunger pangs, no frills attached.
So whether you’re dashing around town ticking errands off your list or crisscrossing the globe, meal replacements ensure you always have a tasty, nutrient-packed option at hand to keep your body energized.
When Should I Use Meal Replacement Shakes?
You know those times when your stomach’s growling but you’re either too busy or simply not in the mood to cook? This is when meal replacement shakes and bars come to the rescue as your own personal hunger superheroes. Picture those moments when you’re trying to pack in extra calories for muscle growth, hunting for a no-fuss meal on the go, or you’re just feeling a little too cosy to whip up something in the kitchen. Meal replacements are your dietary wingmen in these times, ensuring you never have to sideline your health goals.
If you’re someone pumping iron and constantly in the pursuit of that muscular physique, you’d know all about the mammoth task of getting enough calories to support muscle growth. Spending long hours laboring in the kitchen might not be your idea of fun. And that’s exactly when meal replacement shakes, and bars swoop in to become your best buddies. Just a few mouthfuls, and voila, you’ve got all the nutrition your body craves packed into a yummy, gulp-and-go meal – say goodbye to those kitchen blues!
In a rush? No worries, meal replacements have you covered. Save your wallet the pain of airport food prices or settling for a measly pack of in-flight peanuts. Simply shake up some protein powder or snatch a bar and you’re sorted. Now, that’s quelling your hunger without the fuss!
So, whether you’re running around town ticking off your to-do list or globe-trotting, meal replacements promise you’ll never be left high and dry. They assure a tasty, nutrient-filled meal is always within arm’s reach to keep your engine running.
Meal Replacement Shakes VS Protein Powders: What’s the Difference?
Meal replacement shakes are like liquid meals, balancing proteins, carbs, and fats, with added vitamins and minerals, mimicking a full meal’s nutrient profile. Ideal for those too busy for a traditional meal, trying to control weight, or maintain a balanced diet. They are more calorie-dense, intended to fill you up.
Protein powders, however, are the protein champions, typically lower in carbs and fats. These are the go-to for athletes, bodybuilders, or anyone needing extra protein, often consumed post-workout for muscle recovery or between meals. They have fewer calories, focusing on protein supply.
Remember, while handy, neither should substitute all meals. A variety of whole foods for a wide spectrum of nutrients is key. Consider meal replacement shakes and protein powders as supplements in your dietary routine.
How Does the Body’s Absorption Differ From Meal Replacement Shakes and Whole Foods?
Nutrient absorption from meal replacement shakes and whole foods can feel like comparing fast food to a home-cooked meal. Whole foods come packed in nature’s complex matrix. Your body slowly unpacks it, digesting and absorbing nutrients at a balanced pace. Think of the fiber in whole foods, it’s like a traffic cop, controlling the sugar rush to your blood stream.
On the flip side, meal replacement shakes are like an expressway for nutrients – they’re readily available and get absorbed pretty quickly. But too quick isn’t always good, especially if there’s a lot of sugar and little fiber – you could end up on a blood sugar rollercoaster.
Also, shakes might miss out on the bonuses in whole foods – the fiber variety, phytochemicals, antioxidants – the stuff that boosts overall health and manages nutrient absorption. So while shakes are handy in a pinch, nothing quite beats the benefits of a diverse, whole-foods diet.
Things To Consider Before Buying
Choosing a meal replacement shake can feel like walking through a labyrinth, especially when it’s meant to replace an entire meal, not just a scoop of protein. So here’s a handy little guide for your meal replacement treasure hunt.
Think about the purpose of a meal replacement, its calories, and how filling it is. And if you’re scratching your head, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.
You Can’t Live On Meal Replacement Shakes
Relying solely on meal replacements is like watching a movie with only one actor; it lacks variety. Your body yearns for the phytochemicals, enzymes, and antioxidants that only plants can deliver. So while shakes can be great supporting characters in your dietary script, they aren’t the leading stars. This mindset can help take off the pressure of hunting for that elusive “perfect” meal replacement. It’s all about balance, after all.
Calories
Calories are a big deal. Too many and you might gain weight, too few and you risk fatigue and nutrient deficiencies. Choosing the lowest calorie shake isn’t always the winning strategy if you end up famished and overeat later.
Does It Fill You Up?
Look for something that really hits the spot. For the muscle gainers, this may not be as crucial. But if you want to feel full, scout for shakes with enough protein, fiber, and fat, which are the hunger-busting trio.
Consider Your Doctor
Lastly, have a chat with a healthcare professional before swapping your regular meal for a powdery mix. Make sure it’s a thumbs-up for your unique needs.
FAQs
Are there side effects with meal replacement shakes?
The individual’s health status and lifestyle choices will determine how they experience a meal replacement shake. It may be smart to talk through these side effects with your doctor before starting the product, just in case there is something that can help alleviate them or at least prevent their occurrence altogether.
Can you gain weight with meal replacement shakes?
When individuals go for a meal replacement low in calories, there is always the risk that they will experience hunger moments requiring refueling. This can lead to an increased intake of food which may result in weight regain before you know it.
Therefore going based solely on calorie counts never helps us achieve our goals.
Will drinking meal replacement shakes deprive me of certain nutrients?
The primary nutrients that many experts believe individuals are deprived of are phytochemicals, which help boost the immune system, implying some protection against infections and diseases. Overall, you are better off eating a healthy meal over a meal replacement shake.
Can meal replacements cause diarrhea?
Having a meal replacement shake as part of your diet is not going to make you any worse for wear. In fact, they can actually help with stomach issues that come from eating less than healthy foods.
The key thing here is variety – having different nutrients at each meal will ensure the body has everything it needs so no one nutrient becomes too important or overrepresented in one food group while neglecting others that may be essential for our health.
Can meal replacement shakes cause constipation?
You can get constipation from meal replacements if you choose one that doesn’t have much fiber in it. If constipation is a concern I would stick with the higher fiber shakes.
Conclusion
There you have it- a list of the top meal replacements for different categories. Shopping is now as easy as determining what you need a meal replacement for, looking up the best shake and buying it at the official website.
Meal replacement shakes can be the catalyst you need to achieve your dream physique. Don’t forget to supplement it with exercise and real whole foods to get to your goal much faster.
Ryan is a former college wrestler and lifelong fitness fanatic. He has run half marathons, done mud runs, placed in body transformation contests, coached wrestling, and now coaches girls’ soccer. Not to mention he has also tried literally hundreds of supplements over the years and has a vast and thorough supplement knowledge. He has written for Muscle & Strength, Testosterone Junkie, The Sport Review and other publications. He is also the editor-in-chief of this website and has over 25 years of experience in the fitness industry. Feel free to connect with him on his LinkedIn page below.
Yeah the Clean Meal is probably the best tasting one I have tried as well. I used to like the one from Transparent Labs for some reason but they stopped making I guess.
Emma
May 22, 2023 12:24 pm
Yeah I got the Instant Knockout meal replacement to help me lose a few pounds and it actually worked, down 17 lbs so far after a little more than a month. When I tried it I thought it was gonna taste like dirt but it was actually pretty decent, way better than those Jenny Craig ones or the Kirkland ones you get at Costco. If I get tired of it I may give the PhenQ ones a try but I am pretty satisfied for now. I do wish it was cheaper though.
Yeah the Clean Meal is probably the best tasting one I have tried as well. I used to like the one from Transparent Labs for some reason but they stopped making I guess.
Yeah I got the Instant Knockout meal replacement to help me lose a few pounds and it actually worked, down 17 lbs so far after a little more than a month. When I tried it I thought it was gonna taste like dirt but it was actually pretty decent, way better than those Jenny Craig ones or the Kirkland ones you get at Costco. If I get tired of it I may give the PhenQ ones a try but I am pretty satisfied for now. I do wish it was cheaper though.