Individuals are advised not to follow trends and fad diets and actually focus on eating a healthy and balanced diet. While this can seem challenging (and it certainly is), there are a number of ways to actually eat better and healthier without sacrificing nutrition, energy, performance, and of course, the goal of losing weight. One such health product that may be able to achieve this is the Meal Replacement Shake. But what are the top five (5) meal replacement shake recipes available in the market today? Read on to find out more!
Meal Replacement Shakes: A General Overview
In a society dominated by fad diets and fast food items, allocating enough resources such as money, time, and knowledge for a healthy diet on a daily basis can be quite challenging. Fortunately, the meal replacement shake was developed for individuals who want to have their nutrients and needed minerals readily absorbed. These are also considered an option that is convenient compared to the traditional diet programs and are also prepared in such a way that full nutrition is achieved as if a complete meal was consumed.
There is also evidence to suggest that meal replacement shakes can lead to quicker and easier weight loss, particularly for kids who are overweight and for adults whose metabolic functions are already slower. Typically, dieters will take in one of these meal replacement shakes to literally replace a meal that should be taken during a particular time of days such as lunch or breakfast before going on to have two (2) normal meals for days.
Compared to other diet programs or eating plans which can oftentimes have strict restrictions, these meal replacement shakes can help people significantly reduce their calorie intake without having to sacrifice their freedom to eat what they want.
How effective are meal replacement shakes?
Having meals replaced with one or two of these products can be a very effective and convenient way to lose weight fast. However, long-lasting weight loss and keeping the weight off will require serious changes to the lifestyle and as such, using meal replacement shakes may not be a long term solution that is viable.
However, not all of these products are created equal as some may also contain ingredients that are generally unhealthy such as chemical preservatives and corn syrup. Some of the best meal replacement snacks are those that have minerals and vitamins, proteins, and fats, which translates to feeling satiated longer while. There are a number of these meal replacement shake brands available in the market today so it can really be difficult for people to choose the right one.
Things to consider when looking for meal replacement shake recipes
Before purchasing a meal replacement shake brand, there are a number of considerations to look into. Dieters are advised to read the nutrition label to sift through the good and bad meal replacement shakes out there based on their ingredients and nutritional content.
Ideally, a good replacement shake should contain a good balance of protein, fats, and carbs and it should also have packaging that is convenient containing around 10 to 13 grams of fats that are healthy, significant amount of fiber, at least 18 minerals and vitamins, and 15-25 grams of protein. Meal replacement shakes with 400 and above calories per portion and those with added sugars and artificial flavors should be avoided.
Individuals may also combine these protein powders with other ingredients for more benefits and better flavor. People can put spinach aiding the body in terms of improved nutrient absorption along with heaping servings of vitamin C. Adding greek yogurt can give the meal replacement shake a creamy taste and provide the individual with a range of different vitamins and minerals such as vitamins B12 and B6, zinc, protein, potassium, and calcium. On the other hand, adding some cinnamon can add benefits to the shake such as antioxidants, reduced inflammation, and reduced blood pressure.
Generally speaking, meal replacement shakes can be a powerful and convenient tool one can utilize for a more effective routine at weight loss. However, for the dieter to be successful, it is important that options are researched first before making that decision to buy. Ultimately, the shakes should have high levels of protein, it should contain minerals and vitamins, and should have reduced sugars and flavorings. Similar to an actual diet routine, go for shakes that contain real ingredients and avoid those that are chalky and artificial.
The Five (5) Best Meal Replacement Shake Recipes for Weight Loss
Listed below are some of the best meal replacement shake recipes for weight loss
Beachbody’s Shakeology: Best for Nutrition
This brand has increased levels of digestive enzymes, probiotics, prebiotics, adaptogens, antioxidants, fiber, and protein. Beachbody Shakeology has also been designed to lower cravings for junk food and to aid in the improvement of the digestive process. On top of this, this brand contains sugar coming from natural and healthier sources such as organic cane sugars.
Herbalife Formula 1
This brand has a number of exciting flavors such as dulce de leche, wild berry, mint choco, and cafe latte, and reviewers are giving the said flavors really good reviews. Herbalife Formula 1 also contains nutrients, fiber, and protein which can help enhance the function of the individual’s metabolism.
Organic Clean Nutrition
The Organic Clean Nutrition line contains health bars, powders, and shakes to help in muscle growth and weight loss.
Garden of Life’s Raw Organic Fit
This meal protein replacement shake only has a gram of sugar and has 28 grams of protein that are plant-based.
Nutrisystem’s Turboshake
This shake comes in two delicious flavors of vanilla and chocolate and has significant levels of fiber and protein along with important vitamins and nutrients.
