Meal replacement shakes are a type of drink that contains all of the nutrients and calories that you would typically find in a complete meal.
Meal replacement shakes are designed to be a quick and easy way to lose weight by replacing a full meal with a shake that is low in calories, fat, and unhealthy additives.
Meal replacement shakes can be beneficial for those who are looking to lose weight in a healthy way. They are a nutritious alternative to a complete meal, providing all the necessary nutrients that our bodies need, including healthy fats, essential vitamins and minerals, and essential amino acids. They also help to control weight gain by replacing a complete meal with a shake that is lower in calories.
Additionally, meal replacement shakes are an easy and convenient way to get your daily dose of essential vitamins and minerals.
However, it is important to remember that meal replacement shakes should not be used as a sole source of nutrition. They should be used in conjunction with a regular nutritious meal to ensure that you are getting all of the nutrients your body needs. Additionally, if you are trying to lose weight, it is important to pair them with regular exercise for the best results.
There are many different types of meal replacement shakes available on the market today, so it is important to choose one that is right for you. Some factors to consider while choosing the best meal replacement shake are the amount of protein, carbohydrates, and fat that the shake contains, as well as the number of calories.
It is also important to make sure that the meal replacements you choose provide all the essential nutrients your body needs in order to stay healthy.
Since choosing a meal replacement shake can be tricky, we have made a list of the 11 best meal replacement powders that help you lose weight.
- PhenQ Complete Meal Shake: The best meal replacement shake for keto dieters, PhenQ is loaded with proteins, vitamins, and minerals to aid in muscle growth and weight loss.
- Lanta Flat Belly Shake: Meal replacement shakes like Lanta Flat Belly Shake effectively eliminate stubborn fat around the belly and aid the body in weight loss through its saturated fat content.
- Okinawa Flat Belly Tonic: Often dubbed as one of the best meal replacement shakes, Okinawa Flat Belly Tonic has plant-based protein powder, which acts as a decent meal replacement with its digestive health-enhancing abilities.
- IKARIA Lean Belly Juice: IKARIA Lean Belly Juice is a gluten-free meal replacement shake that promotes metabolism to accelerate the process of weight loss.
- BioTrust Keto Elevate: BioTrust Keto Elevate is the best meal replacement for bodybuilders and weight loss enthusiasts alike. It has a nourishing protein and carbohydrate content to suppress appetite effectively.
- Golden Superfood Bliss: Golden Superfood Bliss is a vegan meal replacement shake that is also gluten-free and comes with 0 artificial sweeteners.
- Ladder Whey Protein: Ladder Whey Protein is one of those complete protein shakes which contain the necessary proteins and amino acids needed for effective weight loss.
- Exante Meal Replacement Shakes: Meal replacements like Exante are the perfect vegan protein powder variant to tackle weight loss with all the essential nutrients needed for detoxification and effective digestion.
- Orgain Meal Shake: Orgain Organic Meal is a plant-based protein powder that has no added sugar (2g total), 7g of Prebiotic+ Fiber, and provides 20g of protein. Enough nutrition per serving in order to promote weight loss.
- Floralite: Floralite has a commendable saturated fat and protein content, making it one of the best meal replacement shakes made from organic pea protein and other vitamins and minerals, providing multiple health benefits.
- WellGrove Keto Super Powder: Another complete meal alternative for keto dieters: WellGroove Keto meal replacement powder, which has a powerful mix of olive oil, proteins, and other essential nutrients which burn calories upon daily consumption.
What Are Meal Replacement Shakes?
A meal replacement shake is an alternative to eating solid foods that provide all the nutrients you need but doesn’t contain any calories. It replaces part or all of your regular meals with a liquid formula that contains protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other important ingredients.
The main benefit of these shakes is that they allow you to eat less food while still getting enough nutrition. This helps you lose weight because it reduces your calorie intake without reducing the amount of energy you get from each calorie.
How Does A Meal Replacement Shake Work?
When you drink a meal replacement shake, it mixes with water in your stomach to form a thick slurry. The slurry then moves through your digestive system, where it breaks down into smaller particles. These small particles pass through your intestines and enter your bloodstream as a nutrient-rich fluid called chyle. Chyle carries fat along with essential nutrients like amino acids and fatty acids. When your body needs more energy, it pulls the fat out of your blood and stores it in your fat cells.
When you consume a meal replacement shake, your body absorbs the nutrients contained within the shake instead of digesting the actual food. This means you don’t have to worry about chewing, swallowing, or digesting anything. Instead, you simply sip on the shake and wait until it’s finished before continuing with your day.
This process allows you to eat fewer calories than if you were consuming real food. In fact, many people find that their appetite decreases when they use meal replacement shakes.
You may not feel hungry after drinking a meal replacement shake, so you won’t have to snack between meals. This makes it easier to stick to a healthy diet plan.
You can also choose to take advantage of meal replacement shakes by mixing them with other liquids such as juice or milk. This gives you even more flexibility when it comes to creating a custom shake that fits your lifestyle.
What Are The Leading Meal Replacement Shakes?
Following are our top choices of meal replacement shakes that not only help with weight loss but also provide enough nutrition to be the perfect replacements for food:
PhenQ Meal Shake
Product Overview
Product Name: PhenQ Complete Meal Shake
Key Ingredients: MCT coconut oil, Reishi mushroom extract, Linseed flour, InnoSlim, etc.
Amount Per Serving: 8-16 ounces
Pricing: $20.95
Money-Back Guarantee: 60-day 100% money-back guarantee
If you’re looking for one of the best meal replacement shakes on the market, look no further than PhenQ. This vegan meal replacement formula is packed with vitamins and minerals to provide you with a complete meal replacement without any of the unhealthy additives found in some other protein shakes.
This meal replacement shake is also gluten-free and soy-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Plus, its unique blend of ingredients promotes healthy fat burning and helps to keep you feeling full throughout the day.
Best of all, it has no artificial flavors or sweeteners, so you can be sure you’re getting the healthiest possible meal replacement shake.
PhenQ is also the healthiest meal replacement shake on the market, as it’s made with vegan protein sources and medium-chain triglycerides.
Medium-chain triglycerides, or MCT- a type of healthy fat, has been scientifically proven to help with weight loss, and as a result, MCT is used in almost all meal replacement drinks, and protein shakes.
Lanta Flat Belly Shake
Product Overview
Product Name: Lanta Flat Belly Shake
Key Ingredients: Veggies, fruits, berries, etc.
Amount Per Serving: 1 scoop
Pricing: $69
Money-Back Guarantee: 1 year 100% money-back guarantee
Lanta Flat Belly Meal Replacement Shake is one of the best meal replacement shakes on the market. It has a complete amino acid profile, which helps you lose weight and build muscle mass. It also has no artificial flavors, colors, or artificial sweeteners.
This vegan meal replacement shake is also low in calories and fat and high in protein. It reduces your calorie intake by up to 50%. The vegan meal replacement formula is also rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They help you feel full for longer periods of time and reduce your cravings for unhealthy foods.
All the nutrients in the Lanta Flat Belly Shake are enough to replace a nourishing complete meal. Meal replacements like this are highly effective for weight loss owing to their gluten-free and plant-based protein content.
Okinawa Flat Belly Tonic
Product Overview
Product Name: Okinawa Flat Belly Tonic
Key Ingredients: Polyphenol Blend, Vitamins and Minerals Blend, Metabolic Boosting Blend, Digestive Support Blend, and other essential nutrients.
Amount Per Serving: 1 scoop
Pricing: $59
Money-Back Guarantee: 60-day money-back guarantee
The Okinawa Flat Belly Tonic is a revolutionary formula in the meal replacement shake industry. It has a polyphenol blend, a plant-based protein blend, and a metabolic-booster blend.
These three blends work together to help you lose weight by getting rid of toxins, boosting your metabolism, and providing you with essential vitamins and minerals. The Okinawa Flat Belly Tonic also contains antioxidants and 3 billion CFUs to support energy levels and digestive enzymes. It is one of the best meal replacement shakes on the market today.
Okinawa Flat Belly Tonic, unlike many meal replacement shakes, does not claim to do wonders for your weight loss journey. It is a gluten-free and nourishing formula, acting like a balanced meal, which helps you lose weight by making you feel fuller for a long period of time.
IKARIA Lean Belly Juice
Product Overview
Product Name: IKARIA Lean Belly Juice
Key Ingredients: Fucoxanthin, resveratrol, acai berry powder, etc.
Amount Per Serving: 1 scoop
Pricing: $69
Money-Back Guarantee: 180-day 100% money-back guarantee
If you are vegan and looking for a meal replacement shake that is both nutritious and delicious, look no further than IKARIA Lean Belly Juice. This vegan meal replacement shake contains all of the components of a balanced meal, including digestive enzymes, which make it an ideal meal replacement for vegans.
In addition, the shake has no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, making it a healthy choice for those on a weight loss journey. One of the best things about IKARIA Lean Belly Juice is that it contains saturated fat, like several other protein shakes on the market; thus, this meal replacement powder will keep your appetite under control.
This makes it an excellent choice for those trying to lose weight or maintain their current weight. To achieve the best results in weight loss, drinking meal replacement shakes like Lean Belly Juice for a minimum of two months is a must.
BioTrust Keto Elevate
Product Overview
Product Name: BioTrust Keto Elevate
Key Ingredients: Caprylic Acid, soluble tapioca fiber, natural flavors, sodium caseinate, sea salt, silicon dioxide, stevia leaf extract.
Amount Per Serving: 1 scoop per serving
Pricing: $49
Money-Back Guarantee: 60-day 100% money-back guarantee
There are many meal replacement shakes on the market, but not all of them are created equal. For those on a keto diet, it’s important to find a shake that is low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats and protein. That’s why BioTrust Keto Elevate Meal Replacement Shake is the perfect choice for those following a ketogenic lifestyle.
This meal replacement shake is made with various plant-based protein sources to provide a complete amino acid profile and is also fortified with several vitamins and minerals. It’s also low in carbs and calories, making it a great way to replace a complete meal without sacrificing nutrition.
Plus, the added detoxifiers help to accelerate the process of weight loss by cleansing the body of harmful toxins.
A good meal replacement shake often has MCTs to enhance the rate of ketogenesis while acting as a complete meal. BioTrust Keto Elevate does a good job here and helps one immensely in the weight loss journey.
Golden Superfood Bliss
Product Overview
Product Name: Golden Superfood Bliss
Key Ingredients: Cinnamon, Ginger Root, Cardamom, Ashwagandha, Turmeric, Black Pepper, Coconut Milk, and MCT Oil, etc.
Amount Per Serving: 1 scoop
Pricing: $59.99
Money-Back Guarantee: 60-day money-back guarantee
Golden Superfood Bliss is the best meal replacement shake for vegans. This dietary supplement effectively reduces calorie intake by curbing your unnecessary hunger for unhealthy foods.
Superfood Bliss is an easily dissolvable protein powder that tastes delicious with water, oat milk, or any other beverage of your choice. The vitamins and minerals in this meal replacement shake work wonders for weight loss and detoxifying the body.
Ladder Whey Protein
Product Overview
Product Name: Ladder Whey Protein
Key Ingredients: Pea protein powder, Biotin, Magnesium, Potassium, Niacin, 0.5 g saturated fat, etc.
Amount Per Serving: 1 scoop
Pricing: $59.95
Money-Back Guarantee: 30-day 10% money-back guarantee
There are many meal replacement shakes on the market that claim to be the best, but not all of them live up to the hype. One shake that does is Ladder Whey Protein Isolate. This complete meal replacement shake not only contains whey protein but also detoxifies the body and provides a good source of vitamins and minerals.
Ladder Whey Protein Isolate (a type of complete protein) is one of the best meal replacement shakes on the market because it contains whey protein isolate, which is a high-quality protein that helps with weight loss.
In addition, this shake also has a blend of vitamins and minerals that help to detoxify the body and provide complete nutrition. Many meal replacement shakes with whey protein isolate do not concentrate on getting rid of toxins, but Ladder Whey Protein Isolate does just that.
This makes it an ideal choice for those who are looking for a complete meal replacement shake that will help them lose weight and feel their best.
Furthermore, this protein powder is also beneficial to athletes and bodybuilders for building muscles, unlike many meal replacement powders, which serve the sole purpose of weight loss.
Exante Meal Replacement Shake
Product Overview
Product Name: Exante Meal Replacement Shakes
Key Ingredients: Whey Protein Concentrate, Inulin, Vitamin & Mineral Blend (Dipotassium Phosphate, Potassium Citrates, etc.
Amount Per Serving: 1 scoop with 8 oz of water/milk
Pricing: $59.99
Money-Back Guarantee: Nil
Exante meal replacement shakes are some of the most popular and preferred meal replacement shakes for women. They are packed with vitamins and minerals, plant-based protein, and other nutrients that make them a good choice for those looking for something to help them in their weight loss journey or improve their overall health.
Exante protein shake offers a delicious blend of nutrients to suit the different needs of people on a low-calorie diet. They are one of the few meal replacement shake companies that offer shakes specifically designed for men and women.
Orgain Plant-Based Meal Shake
Product Overview
Product Name: Orgain Plant-Based Meal Shake
Key Ingredients: Protein from Pea, Brown Rice & Chia Seeds
Amount Per Serving: 2 scoops
Pricing: $36.75
Money-Back Guarantee: 30-day 100% money-back guarantee
The vegan meal replacement by Orgain is rather unique. It is a meal shake packed with prebiotics and fiber, where per serving includes 20g of protein and other vitamins and minerals which are required by the body when it is not getting a complete meal.
Orgain Plant-Based Meal Shake has shown us that the best meal replacements can be delicious and nutritious, which aids in weight loss. If you are wary of a typical meal replacement shake, Orgain Plant-Based Meal Shake is the perfect choice for you.
This meal replacement can curb appetite and provide multiple health benefits related to the digestive system and muscle growth.
Floralite
Product Overview
Product Name: Floralite
Key Ingredients: Bifidobacterium Longum and Lactobacillus Helveticus, Glucoamylase, Lipase, Alfalfa, etc.
Amount Per Serving: 1 scoop per serving
Pricing: $69
Money-Back Guarantee: 60-day 100% money-back guarantee
Floralite is a meal replacement powder that enhances your gut health through its proprietary blend of digestive enzymes. With a well-functioning digestive system, nutrition absorption from the food you eat will be at its peak, and your body will feel more active.
Meal replacements often only focus on weight loss and enough nutrition to support your body when a complete meal is being replaced. Floralite has attention on your digestive system so that the nutrition from the meal replacement shake can be absorbed completely.
Furthermore, several meal replacement powders are high in calories and sweeteners, which cause significant harm to the process of weight loss. Floralite, on the other hand, is a good meal replacement shake, filled with plant-based protein, carbs, vitamins, and minerals to actively support weight loss
WellGrove Keto Super Powder
Product Overview
Product Name: WellGrove Keto Super Powder
Key Ingredients: Extra virgin oil, prebiotics, silicon dioxide, stabilizer, healthy fats, etc.
Amount Per Serving: 1 scoop
Pricing: $30
Money-Back Guarantee: NA
A nourishing keto meal replacement shake, WellGrove Keto Super Powder has taken the market by storm. It is one of the best meal replacement shakes for bodybuilders and people who are looking forward to losing weight.
A keto meal replacement shake is best known for its protein and carbs content. WellGrove contains plant-based protein, vitamins and minerals, and olive oil which significantly contribute to the growth of healthy fats and muscle.
How We Rated The Best Meal Replacement Shakes?
The best meal replacement shakes have certain parameters that they need to satisfy. For our list, we have taken a thorough look at how the above 11 meal replacement shakes can satisfy the various parameters that judge their quality, efficacy, and price.
Protein Content
Protein is an essential macronutrient that helps your body to build and maintain muscle mass, as well as other tissues. It’s also important for satiety, so you feel fuller after eating. When it comes to choosing a protein source for your meal replacement shake, there are a few things to consider.
There are mainly two kinds of protein in the meal replacement shakes above: whey protein which is a fast-digesting complete protein that’s often used in protein shakes, and pea protein which is a plant-based protein that can help to keep you fuller for longer. Both have their own health benefits, but they converge at one point, weight loss.
Meal replacements with a decent protein content will always be more effective in serving as an alternative to a healthy meal.
Pricing
Prices for meal replacement shakes can vary widely. Some companies offer a single flavor for a set price, while others allow customers to choose from various flavors and add-ins for a customizable protein shake. Still, other brands sell their shakes in bulk at a discounted price.
To help you determine which meal replacement shake is the best value for your money, we’ve compiled a list of the most decently priced dietary supplements.
While cost is certainly an important consideration when choosing a meal replacement shake, it’s not the only factor to keep in mind. The quality of the ingredients, taste, and nutrition are also important factors to consider. With that said, our top-rated meal replacement shakes are also one of the more affordable options on the market.
Scientifically-Backed Ingredients
All the meal replacement shakes we discussed above include clinically tested ingredients. These premium weight loss shakes effectively replace a healthy diet with their nourishing, science-backed ingredient blend.
Most meal replacement shakes are gimmicky products that come decorated with fake promises and ingredients that do nothing to contribute toward weight loss. However, our detailed review of multiple protein shakes has led us to the above compilation of the best meal replacement shakes whose ingredients are proven to be efficient.
Macronutrients
When it comes to ranking the best meal replacement shakes, macronutrients are one of the most important factors to consider. Protein, fat, and carbohydrates are the three macronutrients that provide your body with the energy it needs to function properly.
Protein is an essential macronutrient for building and repairing muscle tissue. It is also necessary for proper immune system function. The best protein sources are lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, and legumes.
Fat is an important energy source and helps absorb vitamins and minerals. It also helps to keep you feeling full after eating a meal. The best sources of healthy fats are nuts, seeds, avocados, olive oil, and fish.
Carbohydrates are the body’s main source of energy. They are found in foods like loaves of bread, rice, fruits, vegetables, and sweets. It is important to choose complex carbohydrates like those found in whole grains because they offer more health benefits than simple carbs like those in refined sugars.
All the above meal replacement shakes have a fair amount of micronutrients to suppress your appetite and create a calorie deficit and, thus, aid in weight loss.
No Additives
When it comes to finding the best meal replacement shake, there are a few things you should keep in mind. One of the most important factors is whether or not the shake contains any additives.
Additives are often used in food and beverage products to improve their flavor, texture, or shelf life. However, some people prefer to avoid them altogether. We’ve got you covered if you’re looking for a good meal replacement shake that’s free of additives.
Our list of the best meal replacement shakes on the market contains products that have 0 artificial sweeteners, 0 chemical additives, and 0 artificial flavors.
Additionally, our list of meal replacement shakes are also gluten-free.
What Is The Scientific Evidence Backing Meal Replacement Shakes and Their Composition?
It seems like every time we turn around, there’s another new diet fad hitting the scene. From veganism to intermittent fasting, more diets and supplements than ever before have come onto the market claiming weight loss benefits. However, many of these diets and supplements often lack scientific evidence backing their effectiveness.
This means you could be doing yourself harm instead of good.
Unlike such supplements, meal replacement shakes mentioned on our list and strongly backed by science owing to their composition. Below we have mentioned some of the common ingredients used in several meal replacement shakes on our list and the scientific evidence backing them:
Green Tea Extract
Researchers believe green tea may help boost metabolism because of its high concentrations of antioxidants called polyphenols. Green tea contains a compound called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has been shown to increase thermogenesis — the body’s core temperature when exercising — by about 1 degree Fahrenheit. In addition to increasing metabolic rate, EGCG may block fat from being absorbed into the bloodstream.
Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity. According to research conducted at Tufts Medical Center, drinking green tea could help you burn more fat and build lean muscle mass while improving insulin sensitivity.
EGCG works by increasing the activity of enzymes called lipases. These enzymes break down fats in our bodies. When we eat foods high in fat, these enzymes work overtime breaking them down. But when we consume foods that have lots of antioxidants, like green tea, they block the action of these enzymes. As a result, fewer fats are broken down and stored as fat cells.
The researchers found that people who drank two cups of oolong tea each day had less belly fat than those who didn’t drink any tea. What makes this kind of tea so powerful? It’s the flavonoids—antioxidants that give red wine its color and purple cabbage its distinctive taste.
Plant-Based Protein
Plant protein such as soy, pea, rice, hemp, and whey are great sources of plant protein. They’re also rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Soy milk is a popular alternative to dairy milk. Peas are a great source of folate, magnesium, potassium, iron, zinc, and vitamin C. Rice provides B12, riboflavin, niacin, thiamine, phosphorus, manganese, copper, and selenium. Hemp seeds provide lignans, a type of phytochemical linked with reduced risk of heart disease.
A study published in the journal Cell Metabolism found that mice who were given a high-fat diet supplemented with whey lost twice as much weight as mice fed a standard diet. Researchers believe the extra protein helps keep blood sugar levels steady during times of stress.
Plant protein can be a better choice for those looking to lose weight. A study published in Obesity Reviews found that overweight adults who consumed a daily supplement containing 25 grams of protein experienced greater reductions in abdominal fat than those who took a placebo.
Magnesium
Magnesium is essential for over 300 chemical reactions in your body. Magnesium deficiency can lead to muscle cramps, fatigue, insomnia, irritability, and even seizures. The recommended dietary allowance for men is 420 milligrams per day; women need 320 mg/day. You can get it from leafy greens, nuts, beans, whole grains, fish, and tofu.
Magnesium helps regulate hormones that control appetite and energy use. One study found that obese women taking 400 mg of magnesium per day lost an average of 3 pounds after 12 weeks compared to a loss of only 0.5 pounds among women taking a placebo. Another study found that obese women who were deficient in magnesium gained significantly more weight than those whose levels were normal.
MCT Oil
MCT oil is a type of saturated fat that’s been shown to have many benefits. It’s found naturally in coconut oil, but you can find MCT oil in supplement form as well. Studies show that people who consume medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) often experience weight loss because they feel fuller longer than those who don’t eat them. A study published in Obesity showed that overweight adults who consumed 1 tablespoon of MCT oil daily lost more belly fat than those who didn’t. Researchers believe this happens because MCT oils are easier to digest than other types of fats.
MCT oil works by increasing thermogenesis — the production of heat within cells — so you burn calories even when you’re at rest. This helps explain why diets rich in MCTs lead to such significant weight reduction. In fact, one study found that obese women who took part in an eight-week ketogenic diet while consuming MCT oil experienced a 10 percent reduction in visceral abdominal fat while losing about 2 pounds of weight overall.
Zinc
Zinc may help boost your metabolism, which means it could play a role in weight loss. According to research from Tufts University, men who ate foods rich in zinc were able to burn significantly more calories throughout the day than those who didn‘t get enough of the mineral. Zinc deficiency has been associated with obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.
The body needs zinc to make testosterone, insulin, and growth hormone. When these hormones aren’t working properly, energy levels can plummet, and weight gain becomes inevitable. In order to control this, zinc must be present in sufficient amounts in meal replacement shakes.
Apple Cider Vinegar
ACV has long been used as a natural remedy for digestive issues like ulcers and diarrhea. But did you know that drinking apple cider vinegar could be beneficial for weight loss?
According to research conducted at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which triggers certain genes that make our bodies produce substances that increase energy expenditure. So next time you reach for that sugary snack, just remember: Toss back a shot of ACV instead!
ACV is made from fermented apples. When you drink ACV, the bacteria present convert the sugar into lactic acid, creating what’s known as “mother” or “apple wine.” Lactic acid is a normal by-product of metabolism, and it’s produced in small amounts in our bodies all day long. However, consuming large quantities of lactic acid over a short period of time causes a buildup of lactic acid in the blood, leading to muscle cramping and fatigue.
The researchers suggest that drinking ACV increases levels of two hormones called irisin and FGF21, both of which promote metabolic activity. Irisin activates brown adipose tissue, which burns calories through nonshivering thermogenesis. FGF21 stimulates liver enzymes that break down stored fat.
Resveratrol
Resveratrol is a compound found in red grapes and various other plants. Resveratrol may help fight cancer, improve heart health, and boost memory. But resveratrol also seems to play a role in reducing body weight. A study published last year in Cell Metabolism found that mice given resveratrol gained less weight than their control group. The same effect was seen in rats in another study published earlier this year in Scientific Reports.
In addition to its anti-obesity effects, resveratrol has been linked with increased lifespan. A study published in Aging Research Reviews found that mice on a high-resveratrol diet lived up to 30% longer than those on a regular diet. Another study published in Nature Communications suggests that resveratrol might extend the human life span.
Whey Protein
Whey protein powder is another great addition to any fitness routine. Whey protein is full of amino acids and nutrients that support lean muscle growth and recovery. One study published in the International Journal of Sports Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism suggests that whey protein supplementation may play a role in reducing excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC). EPOC occurs when the muscles are still recovering after working out and can cause us to use extra calories during this process.
Another study published in Nutrients found that taking whey supplements immediately following exercise helped reduce the amount of oxygen we breathe after exercising. Taking whey right away also increased testosterone levels and reduced cortisol levels, both of which are linked with improved mood.
Coffee Extract
Coffee has some pretty incredible benefits, including lowering your risk of type 2 diabetes, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, gallstones, and constipation. It’s no wonder coffee is considered a “superfood.” Studies have shown that people who drank four cups of java per day were less likely to gain belly fat than those who abstained.
The caffeine in coffee promotes brain power and concentration—and that means you’ll be more productive throughout the day and resist the urge to snack on junk food.
Reishi’s Mushroom
Mushrooms are one of nature’s most powerful superfoods. They contain an abundance of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. Mushrooms are rich in polysaccharides, compounds that increase energy expenditure and enhance metabolism. In fact, mushrooms have been used for centuries as medicine in China and Japan. Today, they’re being studied around the world for their ability to prevent and treat diseases like cancer, diabetes, and obesity.
A study published in the journal Food & Function found that reishi mushroom extract helps regulate blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity. This makes it a perfect supplement for anyone struggling with diabetes or pre-diabetes.
Ginger
Ginger is a root vegetable native to India and Southeast Asia. The spice contains a compound called gingerol, which has been shown to help lower cholesterol, fight inflammation, and improve digestion. Ginger has been proven effective at treating nausea and morning sickness.
In a recent study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food, researchers gave overweight women either 1 gram of powdered ginger or a placebo before meals. After 12 weeks, the group given ginger lost nearly 3 pounds, while the control group gained about half a pound.
Cinnamon
This warming spice comes from the bark of cinnamon trees. Cinnamon has long been used as a natural remedy for everything from colds and flu to digestive issues. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that adding just ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon to your diet could significantly boost weight reduction.
Researchers believe the reason why cinnamon works so well is that it increases thermogenesis, or heat production, in our bodies. When we eat foods that raise our body temperature, we burn more calories at rest and even while sleeping.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a bright yellow spice derived from the roots of a plant native to India and Africa. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Research shows curcumin may reduce pain and swelling associated with arthritis, and it may also help protect against heart disease.
Researchers at Ohio State University found that mice fed a high-fat diet supplemented with turmeric experienced significant decreases in abdominal fat compared to mice not receiving the treatment.
Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are tiny black seeds related to sesame seeds. They grow on bushes in Mexico and Central America. These little powerhouses are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, fiber, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, copper, manganese, and vitamin B.
The health benefits of chia seeds go beyond basic nutrition. According to research published in the International Journal of Obesity, people who ate a daily serving of chia seeds were able to lose twice as much weight over eight months than those who didn’t consume them.
Why Use Meal Replacement Shakes? Why Not Just Eat Less Food?
There are several reasons why using meal replacement shakes might be better than trying to cut back on your overall caloric intake.
First, eating less often requires you to make conscious decisions about what you’re going to eat. If you skip breakfast or lunch, you may end up feeling tired and sluggish throughout the rest of the day.
Second, cutting back on your daily calorie intake can lead to hunger pangs. Some people report experiencing cravings for junk food when they reduce their calorie intake too much.
Third, some people find it difficult to maintain a consistent level of physical activity when they try to exercise regularly. For example, if you want to run every morning, you may find yourself skipping workouts during the weekdays because you’re busy at work.
Fourth, you may find it challenging to prepare nutritious meals when you’re short on time. You may spend hours preparing dinner only to realize that you haven’t eaten yet.
Finally, there’s no denying that eating less food is one of the best ways to shed pounds. However, this approach has its drawbacks. For instance, it can be hard to keep track of how much you’re actually eating.
If you’re looking for an alternative weight loss solution, meal replacement shakes could be just what you need. They allow you to enjoy delicious foods without having to worry about counting calories.
In addition, these shakes provide you with all the vitamins and minerals you need to stay healthy. Plus, they help you lose weight while keeping your metabolism high.
Are Meal Replacement Shakes Healthy?
Meal replacement powders are becoming increasingly popular as people look for ways to improve their health and lose weight. The best meal replacement shakes to create a calorie deficit in the body to accelerate the fat-burning process.
Organic pea protein is one of the best ingredients you can look for in a meal replacement shake. Pea protein is a complete protein, meaning it contains all the nine essential amino acids your body needs. It is also low in calories and fat, making it an ideal choice for those looking to lose weight. In addition, pea protein is rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, potassium, and magnesium.
Another important ingredient to look for in a meal replacement shake is healthy fats. Fats are an essential part of a healthy diet, but not all fats are created equal. Look for shakes that contain healthy fats like Omega-3 fatty acids, which have numerous health benefits, including reducing inflammation and improving heart health.
When choosing a meal replacement shake, it is also important to make sure it contains all the nutrients your body needs. A complete meal replacement should include proteins, carbohydrates, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Many meal replacement shakes claim to have multiple benefits when in reality, they contain artificial sweeteners, which are the primary cause of weight gain, so be sure to read the label carefully before purchasing.
What Are The Core Nutrients Found In Meal Replacement Shakes?
Here are the core nutrients found in meal replacement shakes:
Protein
Protein is an essential macronutrient that helps build and repair muscle tissue and other body tissues. It is also necessary for the production of enzymes and hormones. Protein can be found in many foods, including meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
Protein in meal replacement shakes can be in the form of whey protein, pea protein, egg protein, soy protein, brown rice protein, and hemp protein.
Whey protein and brown rice protein are the two most commonly found protein sources. Both of these are used in almost all protein shakes and dietary supplements. Whey protein isolate is a complete protein that has absolutely no saturated fat and is easily absorbable and nutritious.
Meal replacement shakes with all, or any of the above vegan protein sources are highly recommended for weight loss.
Dietary Fiber
Dietary fiber is an essential nutrient that many people lack in their diet. A meal replacement shake can help to increase your fiber intake, which can have numerous health benefits.
Fiber is important for gut health, as it helps to keep things moving along smoothly. Fiber can help to lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and it may even help to prevent certain types of cancer.
A meal replacement shake is a great way to get more fiber into your diet if you struggle to eat enough fruits and vegetables. One should look for a shake containing at least 5 grams of fiber per serving.
One of the multiple health benefits of fiber is that it can create a calorie deficit- fibers can make you feel fuller so that your unhealthy food craving and calorie intake are lowered. When calorie intake is lowered, it becomes easier to lose weight.
Healthy Fats
Healthy fats are an essential part of a meal replacement shake. They help in creating a calorie deficit and keep you full and satisfied while providing your body with the necessary nutrients it needs to function properly. There are a variety of healthy fats that you can choose from, and each has its own unique set of benefits.
The best meal replacement shakes will always contain healthy fats, which will aid in weight loss.
Some good sources of healthy fats include:
Avocados: Avocados are a great source of healthy monounsaturated fats. They also contain fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
Oils: Oils such as olive oil or coconut oil are a great way to add healthy fats to your diet.
Vitamins And Minerals
The best meal replacement shakes, or protein shakes, should contain a variety of essential vitamins and minerals in order to be truly effective. These nutrients include vitamins A, C, D, E, and K and the minerals calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, and potassium. Each of these nutrients plays an important role in keeping the body healthy and functioning properly.
Vitamin A is important for vision, skin health, and immunity. Vitamin C is necessary for wound healing and collagen production.
Vitamin D helps with calcium absorption and bone health. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. Vitamin K is involved in blood clotting and bone health.
Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth. Phosphorus works with calcium to build bones and teeth. Magnesium is needed for energy production, muscle contraction, nerve function, and blood sugar regulation.
Iron helps carry oxygen in the blood and is necessary for cell growth. Potassium regulates fluid balance in the body and aids in muscle function.
Antioxidants
A meal replacement shake needs antioxidants to help protect the body against damage from free radicals. Antioxidants can be found in many foods, including fruits and vegetables. They are also available in supplement form. Some of the most common antioxidants include vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms similar to the beneficial bacteria in your digestive system. In meal replacement shakes, they help to promote a healthy balance of gut flora, which can lead to better digestion and absorption of nutrients.
Probiotics also help to fight off bad bacteria and yeast, which can cause infections and other health problems.
The most common type of probiotic is Lactobacillus acidophilus, which is found in yogurt and other fermented foods. Other types include Bifidobacterium, Enterococcus, and Saccharomyces boulardii. Probiotics are also available in supplement form.
Enzymes
Enzymes are important for many bodily functions, including digestion and metabolism. They are present in all body tissues but are especially concentrated in the liver, pancreas, and small intestine. While enzymes are not considered essential nutrients, they play a vital role in many biochemical reactions.
There are three main types of enzymes in meal replacement shakes and protein powders: digestive enzymes, metabolic enzymes, and food enzymes.
Digestive enzymes break down food into smaller molecules that can be absorbed by the body.
Metabolic enzymes help to convert these nutrients into energy or other useful compounds.
Food enzymes assist in the digestion of complex carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
FAQs
What are meal replacement shakes?
Meal replacement shakes are a type of dietary product that is designed to be consumed in place of a traditional meal. They typically come in powder form, which is then mixed with water or other liquids and can also be found in pre-made, ready-to-drink bottles.
Meal replacement supplements often contain a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, as well as vitamins and minerals, and are thus considered to be a complete source of nutrition. Some meal replacements also claim to promote weight loss or help with weight management due to their lower calorie content.
Who should consume meal replacement shakes?
Meal replacements, such as shakes and bars, are designed to provide all the nutrients your body needs in a complete and balanced meal.
Most meal replacement shakes are often used as a convenient way to get essential nutrients, especially on the go. They can be helpful for weight loss or for athletes and bodybuilders who need to meet their high-energy demands.
When used correctly, meal replacements can be a safe and effective way to improve your nutrient intake. However, it’s important to choose products that are appropriate for your individual needs and to use them as part of a healthy diet.
For example, if you’re trying to lose weight, you’ll need to ensure the product contains fewer calories than a normal meal. And if you’re an athlete, you’ll need to ensure the product provides enough protein and other nutrients to support your training.
What are some of the best meal replacement shakes?
Meal replacements are everywhere today, especially in the form of a shake. Some of the best meal replacement shakes on the market are Lanta Flat Belly Shake, IKARIA Lean Belly Juice, and PhenQ Meal Shake.
Do meal replacement shakes work as well as a protein shake?
Meal replacement shakes are often used as an alternative to protein shakes; however, meal replacements often do not have the same amount of protein as a shake or powder completely dedicated to muscle enhancement (protein shakes/powders) would.
Most meal replacement drinks contain many other nutrients that work wonders for the body.
Are meal replacement shakes safe?
In a word, meal replacement shakes are safe and nourishing. However, men and women below 18 years of age and nursing mothers should refrain from consuming the same.
Final Words
Meal replacement shakes are gaining well-deserved popularity nowadays for the benefits they have. The above meal replacement products are some of the best dietary supplements available today, so if you are confused about which one to choose, our list is here to help.
However, it is important to remember that these products are not magical, and you need to drink meal replacement shakes for a period of at least two months to realize their benefits.
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