The Best Diabetic Meal Replacement Shakes

Written by Jack Schrupp and reviewed by Ella McGonagle, M.S. Nutrition

drink wholesome makes the best diabetic meal replacement shakes. They are additive-free, dairy-free, and made with real foods, not chalky protein isolates – 99% of meal replacements fail to meet at least one of these criteria. This makes them perfect for people with gut issues and sensitive stomachs, as well as for people just looking for nutrition without the processing and added junk. Order samples to see if our meal replacements are right for you. 

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easy to digest

“I have a sensitive stomach, so most meal replacement powders leave me with gas, bloating, constipation, and stomach pain, but not this one.” – Shon

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Are meal replacement shakes good for diabetes?

What are the best diabetic meal replacement shakes?

Why drink wholesome?

Are meal replacement shakes good for diabetes?

One of the main benefits of meal replacement shakes for people with diabetes is that they allow for easy control of nutrient intake. Unlike traditional meals, which can vary greatly in their nutrient (fats, carbs, protein, etc.) content, meal replacement shakes provide a consistent and balanced source of nutrition. This can make it much easier for people with diabetes to manage their blood sugar levels, as they know exactly what  they are consuming.

Another benefit of meal replacement shakes is convenience. For people with busy lifestyles, preparing healthy, balanced meals can be challenging. Meal replacement shakes provide a convenient alternative as they are easy to make, and can be consumed on the go. This is especially helpful for diabetics, who need to be careful about what they eat and when they eat it. Meal replacement shakes can help to ensure that diabetics are getting the nutrients they need, even when they do not have time to prepare a traditional meal.

Meal replacement shakes, especially high protein meal replacement shakes, are also a great way to control calorie intake. This is important for diabetics looking to manage their weight. Not only do  meal replacements make it easy to know exactly how many calories you are consuming, but they keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer. This is because protein is the most satiating nutrient, so it helps to prevent overeating and snacking between meals.

What are the best meal replacement shakes for diabetics?

If you have type 2 diabetes, the foods that you eat can have a huge effect on your blood sugar levels. Meal replacements are no exception. You should therefore avoid meal replacements with lots of simple carbohydrates like sugar as they can trigger blood sugar spikes. Naturally occurring sugars like those found in fruits and vegetables, on the other hand, are safe to eat. According to recent research, there is no link between natural sugar and diabetes since these types of sugar are digested and absorbed more slowly, and are therefore less likely to cause blood sugar spikes.

You should also be wary of meal replacements sweetened with artificial sweeteners. Several studies have shown that artificial sweeteners may increase cravings toward sugary and sweet foods, which can lead to binging and feelings of withdrawal. Other studies have associated artificial sweeteners with a higher risk of glucose intolerance, which is a precursor for pre-diabetes and diabetes.

Finally, you should avoid meal replacements made with protein concentrates and isolates, foods stripped of everything but the protein. The ingredients in question are listed as “pea protein” and “whey protein” as opposed to “peas” and “whey.” While high-protein, low-carb foods like these are low on the glycemic index, they can still measure high on the insulin index. For this reason, protein concentrates and isolates can cause hyperinsulinemia (abnormally high levels of insulin). In other words, while protein concentrates and isolates do not spike blood sugar the way that most carbohydrates do, they can still result in an insulin spike. This is because protein has an insulinotropic effect (it promotes insulin secretion).

Furthermore, there are two types of meal replacements: ready-to-drink (store-bought) meal replacement shakes, and meal replacement shakes made with meal replacement powder. In order to make a diabetes meal replacement shake with meal replacement powder, you have to mix the powder with milk or water. This requires a blender or a shaker bottle, and a little extra time and effort. Some people, prioritizing convenience, prefer to buy ready-to-drink shakes, but if they knew what they were drinking, they would probably vomit. 

Ready-to-drink meal replacements shake are full of emulsifiers, stabilizers, thickeners, sweeteners, and flavors. Ingredients like these improve characteristics like taste, texture, and shelf stability, but can cause uncomfortable side effects and long-term gut damage (more about this soon). This is why I recommend that you make your own diabetes meal replacement shakes with meal replacement powder. That said, not all meal replacement powders are created equal, and many contain the same additives found in ready-to-drink shakes! 

Why drink wholesome? 

drink wholesome is additive-free.

One of the reasons why we make the best diabetic meal replacement shakes is that we do not use food additives. Most meal replacements, on the other hand, are full of food additives. Although not necessarily bad for you in small quantities, additives can add up quickly (especially if you drink a meal replacement shake every day) and cause gastrointestinal (GI) side effects like bloating, constipation, diarrhea, gas, and stomach pain. This is because food additives are hard to digest, and sit in your gut for longer than food should, which gives your gut bacteria more time to eat. As they eat, these bacteria produce gas, which causes bloating and stomach pain. Gas also slows colonic transit (the amount of time it takes food to travel through the colon), and can lead to constipation. In the long term, food additives can disrupt regulatory pathways in the intestine, which can result in the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and systemic inflammatory disorders.

When buying diabetic meal replacement powder, one ingredient to avoid in particular is artificial sweeteners. Artificial sweeteners are among the most harmful food additives in the long term as they alter the composition of your gut microbiota (the collection of microorganisms that help you digest food). This can lead to serious, chronic GI problems, widespread inflammation, and permanent damage to the gut microbiome. Some sweeteners, especially sugar alcohols like xylitol, are also poorly absorbed by the gut (meaning they feed those hungry gut bacteria), and cause diarrhea because they draw water into your intestine. Now you finally have something to blame for those post-meal replacement shake trips to the bathroom!

Here is a list of the most common food additives in meal replacement powder:

acacia gum, acesulfame potassium, artificial flavors, aspartame, carrageenan, cellulose gum, dextrin, dextrose, erythritol, gellan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, inulin, locust bean gum, “natural” flavors, maltodextrin, rice syrup solids, soy lecithin, silica, sucralose, sunflower lecithin, xanthan gum, xylitol

When it comes to identifying food additives, go with your gut. 😉 As a rule of thumb, they are the ingredients that you cannot pronounce. Food additives are not the only thing to look out for when buying diabetic meal replacement powder, however. There are several other ingredients that can upset your stomach.

our ingredients: 

egg whites, almonds, oats, coconut, cocoa, monk fruit

the alternative:

SOY PROTEIN ISOLATE, CANOLA OIL, MALTODEXTRIN, ISOMALTULOSE, SOLUBLE CORN FIBER, MODIFIED FOOD STARCH, VITAMIN AND MINERAL PREMIX, CELLULOSE, NATURAL & ARTIFICIAL FLAVORS, SOY LECITHIN, SALT, MONO & DIGLYCERIDE, XANTHAN GUM, SUCRALOSE

*This is the actual ingredient list of one of the best-selling meal replacements in the United States.

drink wholesome is dairy-free.

Another reason why we make the best meal replacements for diabetics is that we do not use dairy-based proteins. Many meal replacements are made with whey and casein, which are byproducts of cheese and yogurt production, and known to cause digestive issues, especially for people with lactose intolerance and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Over one in three Americans are lactose intolerant, and the prevalence of IBS is somewhere between 10 and 15 percent in the United States. It follows that you may be lactose intolerant or have IBS and not even know it. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a poorly understood condition, and it is unclear why dairy triggers symptoms. Lactose intolerance, on the other hand, is clearly understood. People with lactose intolerance are unable to fully digest lactose, the sugar in dairy. As you just learned, partially digested food feeds the bacteria in your gut, which produce gas. 

drink wholesome is made with real foods.

A final reason why we make the best meal replacements for diabetes is that we do not use protein isolates. Most meal replacements, on the contrary, are made with protein concentrates and/or isolates, foods stripped of everything but the protein. They are listed on the ingredient list as “pea protein” and “whey protein” as opposed to “peas” and “whey. ” I will not go into the details, but protein concentrates and isolates undergo heavy mechanical and chemical processing before becoming meal replacement. Sometimes, manufacturers use chemical solvents like hexane to isolate (separate) the protein from the food. This means that what you end up putting into your body looks nothing like real food.

If you think about it, your gut was designed to digest naturally occurring foods, not laboratory formulated imitations, so if you feed it anything but real food, it might get upset. The long term implications of eating processed foods are still not well understood, but more and more research is finding that it can alter the composition of your gut microbiota, and lead to permanent damage to the gut microbiome. It is therefore in your best interest to avoid meal replacements made with protein concentrates and isolates. 

Instead of protein concentrates or isolates, we make the best diabetic meal replacement shakes with whole foods like egg whites and almonds. Egg whites are simply pasteurized and dried before becoming meal replacement. Almonds are just roasted, pressed, and ground. Whole foods like these are an easy to digest, gut-friendly alternative to protein concentrates and isolates. This is in part because whole foods contain a variety of enzymes and other digestive aids that help to break down the food, making it easier for the body to absorb the nutrients. Protein isolates and concentrates, on the other hand, have been stripped of these digestive aids, making them harder for the body to digest and absorb. Moreover, minimally-processed plant-based foods like almonds are rich in fiber, which helps promote healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.

Unless you have a sensitivity or allergy to eggs, egg white protein is the best protein for your gut. Egg whites are low in fiber, low-FODMAP, naturally alkaline, and have the highest protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS) of any whole food. Our customers have experienced fewer digestive issues with egg white protein than with any other type of protein. We like almonds too because research suggests that they possess prebiotic properties and can improve the diversity and composition of the gut microbiome.

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no stomach issues

“I’ve tried out so many protein powders and meal replacements, and they always gave me stomach issues…That’s why I got drink wholesome.” – Tommy

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drink wholesome makes the best meal replacement shakes for diabetics.

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This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. drink wholesome is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Diabetes-friendly Meal Replacement Shakes To Make Your Life Easier – Jimmy Joy

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic diseases characterised by a high blood sugar level over a prolonged period of time [1].

It’s a disease that prevents your body from properly using the energy from the food you eat. Your body is made up of trillions of cells. To produce energy, the cells need food in a straightforward form.

For example, when you eat or drink, much of your food is broken down into a simple sugar called glucose. Glucose provides the energy your body needs for daily activities. Imagine it like this: the blood vessels and blood are a sort of highways that transport sugar. Sugar cannot go into the cells by itself.

Why not?

The pancreas naturally produces insulin once it senses that you are eating. Insulin is immediately released into the blood, which acts as the “key” that opens the door for sugar to enter the cells, which would be used for energy. When sugar leaves the bloodstream and enters the cells, the blood sugar level is lowered.

Without insulin (this “key”), sugar cannot get into the body’s cells for use as energy, which causes blood sugar levels to rise.

So, simply said, Diabetes Mellitus is a disease that occurs when your blood sugar is too high due to problems with the hormone ‘insulin’ [2].
 

What’s the Difference Between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes?

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) classified diabetes into two broad categories: type 1, type 2 and other types [1].

Type 1 Diabetes

In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas makes little or no insulin, so sugar cannot get into the body’s cells for use as energy. People with type 1 diabetes must use insulin injections to control their blood glucose. Approximately 5-10% of people with diabetes are diagnosed with type 1.

Type 2 Diabetes

In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas makes insulin, but it either doesn’t produce enough, or the body becomes insulin resistant, meaning that tissues such as the muscle and liver don’t respond well to insulin and, therefore, can’t use glucose from your blood as energy. 9 out of 10 people with diabetes have type 2, which is often accompanied by other conditions such as hypertension. Type 2 diabetes may sometimes be controlled and reversed with a combination of diet, weight management and exercise. However, treatment may also include glucose-lowering medications or insulin injections [2].

Prediabetes

Prediabetes means you have a higher-than-normal blood sugar level. It’s not high enough to be considered type 2 diabetes yet, but without lifestyle changes, pre-diabetics are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. Eating healthy foods, making physical activity as part of your daily routine and maintaining a healthy weight can help bring one’s blood sugar levels back to normal [3] [4].

What Is a Diabetes Diet?

If you have diabetes or prediabetes, your doctor will likely recommend that you see a dietitian to help you develop or maintain a healthy eating plan. This will help you control your blood sugar (glucose).

Usually, a diabetes diet is a meal plan that’s naturally rich in nutrients and fibre, low in fat and calories. Actually, a diabetes diet is a great eating plan for almost everyone since key elements are fruits, vegetables and whole grains. The diet is based on eating three meals a day at regular times. This helps to better use the insulin that your body produces or gets through medication.

There are different approaches on creating a diabetes meal plan. The ADA recommends an individualized nutritional approach which promotes nutrient-dense foods through controlled portion sizes. For this, the ADA came up with the ‘plate method’ which is a simple method of meal planning. In essence, it focuses on eating more vegetables. According to the ADA, you can follow these steps when preparing your plate:

• Fill half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables, such as spinach, carrots and tomatoes.
• Fill a quarter of your plate with a protein, such as tuna, lean pork or chicken.
• Fill the last quarter with a whole-grain item, such as brown rice, or a starchy vegetable, such as green peas.
• Include “good” fats such as nuts or avocados in small amounts.
• Add a serving of fruit or dairy and a drink of water or unsweetened tea or coffee.

Other ways to help you keep your blood glucose level within a normal range are to count carbohydrates or to rank carbohydrate-containing foods based on their effect on blood glucose levels (aka the glycemic index). The lower the glycemic index of foods, the lower their impact on blood glucose. There’s also a possibility that a dietitian recommends you choose specific foods to help you plan your meals and snacks. In this case, you can choose foods from a list including categories such as carbohydrates, proteins and fats. The ADA also recommends a moderation or suppression in alcohol consumption and limiting salt consumption to < 5.75 g/day [6].

Carbohydrates

The diet always includes fibre-rich complex carbohydrates, which can be found in whole wheat, oatmeal and beans. Complex carbohydrates take longer to digest and are a more stable source of energy than simple carbohydrates. Because carbohydrates break down into glucose, they have the greatest impact on blood glucose levels. To help control the blood sugar, it is advised to calculate the number of carbohydrates you are eating so that you can adjust the dose of insulin accordingly. Fibre (a carbohydrate) plays an important role in controlling blood sugar levels. Foods rich in fibre include vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes and whole grains [5] [7].

Fatty Acids

Foods containing monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, like Omega-3 fatty acids, can help lower cholesterol levels. Avocados, nuts and olive oil are good sources of these fatty acids [6] [7]. For further information about mono and polyunsaturated fats, check out this blog.

Protein

Some research has found successful management of type 2 diabetes with meal plans including slightly higher levels of protein (20–30%), which may contribute to increased satiety. However, different studies suggest that protein should be a supplement to vegetables, fruits and whole grains in a meal, not the entire meal. Multiple studies have found that a plant-based diet can control blood sugar levels to a greater extent than a traditional diabetes diet which limited calories and carbohydrates. Plant-based protein can be found in soy, brown rice, quinoa, pea, buckwheat, bulgur, nuts, legumes and seeds [7] [9] [10].

Diabetes and Weight Loss

Research has shown that weight loss is the primary medical aim for diabetic patients with type 2 form of diabetes.

By reducing weight, especially from the abdominal area, insulin sensitivity will improve along with blood glucose control and thus reduce the risk of complications.

Meal replacements like the Jimmy Joy Plenny Shake can involve replacing one or two meals a day with a meal-replacement beverage. These meal replacers have been shown to lead to greater weight loss compared with a reduced-calorie diet, according to Dr Steven B. Heymsfield [8].

Read more practical tips in our Complete Guide to Fat Loss.

What Is the Best Meal Replacement Shake for Diabetics?

The combination of complex carbohydrates like the dietary fibre inulin, protein and fatty acids creates an optimally balanced meal replacement. This can be easily incorporated into a healthy and varied diet rich in unprocessed products.

Hooray! All Plenny meals include slow-releasing (complex) carbohydrates that include starches and fibres which can be found in ingredients like oatmeal, flaxseeds, inulin and soy. These complex carbs help to control blood sugar levels thanks to their fibre content.

Moreover, the Plenny Shakes, Plenny Drink, Plenny Bar and  Plenny Bar are rich sources of omega 3 fatty acids that help lower cholesterol levels.

Jimmy Joy is a great tool for people living with (pre) diabetes. One bar, a shake or a drink equals one optimally formulated nutritious meal. 

One Plenny Shake Active meal (100g) that will keep you full for hours:

• 408 calories (remember, it’s a meal shake)
• 37g protein
• 31g total carbs, of which 4,0g sugar
• 14g fat, of which 2,1g saturated fat
• 7,3g fibre

It removes the need for portion control and calorie counting since the nutrients in Jimmy Joy are pre-measured and declared on the packaging. Another perk: Jimmy Joy requires (almost) no preparation or clean-up!

Note: See your doctor if you’re concerned about diabetes or if you notice any type 1 or 2 diabetes signs or symptoms. Ask your doctor about blood sugar screening if you have any risk factors for diabetes.

Reviews Jimmy Joy and Diabetes

Sources

[1] A.T. Kharroubi, H.M Darwish. Diabetes mellitus: The epidemic of the century. Available from:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4478580/ .
[2] Cleveland Clinic. Diabetes Mellitus: An Overview. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/7104-diabetes-mellitus-an-overview
[3] Edwards CM, et al. Prediabetes A worldwide epidemic. Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics of North America. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prediabetes/symptoms-causes/syc-20355278
[4] Insulin resistance and prediabetes. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Available from: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/what-is-diabetes/prediabetes-insulin-resistance
[5] Dr. E. Zacharias. Complex Carbohydrates and Dietary Fiber. Available from: https://www.bouldermedicalcenter.com/complex-carbohydrates-and-dietary-fiber/
[6] M. Regina Castro, M.D. Diabetes diet: Create your healthy-eating plan. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes-diet/art-20044295
[7] A. Gray, et al. Nutritional Recommendations for Individuals with Diabetes. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279012/
[8] S.B. Heymsfield. Meal replacements and energy balance. Available from: https://www.academia.edu/12066521/Meal_replacements_and_energy_balance
[9] Yokoyama, Y., Barnard, N. D., Levin, S. M., & Watanabe, M. (2014). Vegetarian diets and glycemic control in diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Cardiovascular diagnosis and therapy, 4(5), 373–382. https://doi. org/10.3978/j.issn.2223-3652.2014.10.04 [10] Toumpanakis A, Turnbull T, Alba-Barba IEffectiveness of plant-based diets in promoting well-being in the management of type 2 diabetes: a systematic reviewBMJ Open Diabetes Research and Care 2018;6:e000534. doi: 10.1136/bmjdrc-2018-000534

Best Healthy Meal Replacement Shakes in 2020

We may earn a commission on anything you purchase through links on this page. Price and availability are current at the time of the first publication of the work.

Why waste time making homemade meals for yourself or gathering leftovers for a sad work lunch when you can just have one of the best meal replacement shakes and end the day?

Not only are there now seemingly endless healthy drinking options, MarketWatch reports that the market for meal replacement shakes is expected to grow even more in the next few years. This growth, according to a recent report, is driven by factors such as busy lifestyles, rapid urbanization, and the rise in healthy eating habits and processed foods. In other words, consumers are becoming more health conscious and looking for convenient and more nutritious foods. Enter: meal replacement shakes.

What are meal replacement smoothies and what are their benefits?

You can find two varieties of meal replacement shakes:

• ready to drink, bottled shake s or
• powder supplements that you would mix with water and shake to mix

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Other than protein shakes, the healthiest shake shakes offer a nutritional profile similar to a balanced diet. This includes healthy fats, carbohydrates, protein, and fiber.

Many people like these cocktails and have many benefits:

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• convenience : As we said earlier, you don’t have to cook or clean up after your meal if you take one of these cocktails.
• Weight Loss : ‘Meal replacement shakes have shown to be effective for some people trying to lose weight, especially those who replace 1-2 meals with a meal replacement,’ says Amanda A. Kostro Miller, RD, LDN, who is part of the advisory advice Smart healthy lifestyle. However, many weight loss programs that use meal replacement shakes are temporary. initial weight loss. ‘
• feel full : Choosing a high protein and/or fiber shake will keep you full longer and slow down the digestion of carbohydrates, which will stabilize your blood sugar.

How to choose the best meal replacement?

If you want to try a meal replacement cocktail, you have dozens of options to choose from. However, it is important to remember that not all meal replacement shakes are the same and there are some that should be avoided. We consulted with experts to determine which ingredients to eat and avoid when choosing the best and worst meal replacement shakes.

The best varieties mimic a well-balanced meal and contain a more balanced macronutrient profile than a regular protein shake, which tends to focus on one key nutrient and little else. “The most important purpose of a meal replacement shake, as stated, is to replace your meal,” says Daniel Wong, RD, CDN, CDE. “Having said that, you’ll want a smoothie that contains all the macronutrients – carbohydrates, protein, fats, and a wide range of vitamins and minerals – to provide a well-balanced diet.”

Meal replacement shakes should meet at least a few of the following guidelines:

• Calories: Choose a shake that contains about 300 calories per serving. Wong points out that if you’re opting for a smoothie with fewer calories, consider adding some of your favorite fruit or mixing it with milk. This will help increase your intake of calcium and vitamin D without exceeding your calorie needs.
• Carbs: Carbs are not the enemy, especially when it comes to meal replacement shakes. Carbohydrates act as fuel for the body and are part of any balanced diet. However, do not overdo it with the carbohydrate department. Wong suggests looking for shakes that contain roughly 10-20 grams of carbs per serving.
• Fiber: “Fiber is an essential nutrient that helps keep you full. We get fiber from fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts and seeds,” says Miller. “Not all meal replacement shakes have fiber, but if you can find a brand that does contain fiber, this should be one of your best options.” Wong recommends looking for smoothies with at least 3-5 grams of fiber per serving.
• Protein: “Liquids are generally not as pleasant as the food itself, so make sure you choose a meal replacement shake that has a good amount of protein,” says Miller. “Protein keeps you full for hours, which helps you avoid snacking before your next meal.” Rodriguez says 15-30 grams of protein per serving is ideal, as research has shown that this amount is “most beneficial for maximizing protein synthesis. ”
• Vitamins and minerals: “Each vitamin or mineral listed on a product label must have more than 10% of the Daily Value,” Wong says. “If [it’s] over 20 percent, it’ll be even better.”

The best meal replacement shakes will also be very low in certain substances, such as added sugar and sodium. “I try to avoid artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners,” says Lindsey Gnant, Science Content Manager, Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Isagenix. “I find that products that use artificial colors and flavors tend to use lower quality ingredients.”

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The 8 best meal replacements you can buy.

The following meal replacement shakes are approved by nutritionists and you should have them at home.

1. Kirkland Signature Complete Food Shakes.

Provided by Costco

“Kirkland Signature Complete Shakes are a worthy choice for meal replacement shakes,” says Diane Gariglio-Clelland, RD, CDE with Balance One supplements. “They are not loaded with a lot of artificial sweeteners like many other meal replacement shakes on the market. Instead, they have some real sugar balanced with stevia. The sugar content is still generally low (5 grams per drink), so I would prefer it to have a nauseatingly sweet, artificially sweet taste. The protein content is great for calories – 200 calories and 15 grams of protein.”

Gariglio-Clelland also notes that these shakes are also fortified with many vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, which many people are deficient in.

$43.40 at Amazon Buy Now

2. Organic Organic Meal Powder

Provided by Orgain

This food powder, which Lisa Richards, nutritionist and author of Candida Diet, recommends, is completely vegan and offers 20g of vegetable protein and 8g fiber per serving, making it one of her favorite meals. With just 1g of sugar per serving, it is a good source of vitamin B6, vitamin C, riboflavin, thiamine, iron, and pantothenic acid.

$29.48 at Amazon Buy Now

3. SlimFast Advanced Nutrition High Protein Replacement Shakes

“This is a great shake that checks all the boxes. This high-protein shake contains 40 percent of your daily protein intake (based on a 2,000-calorie diet), so you’re more likely to stay full,” says Miller. Plus, this shake has 5g of fiber per serving, which means it’s a high-fiber food. It also contains no added sugars.”

$6.99 at Target buy now

4. Complete Kate Farms.

Provided by Katefarms

Jim White, MD, ACSM, and owner of Jim White Fitness Nutrition Studios calls this meal replacement shake “the best option.” Made from pea protein, this product contains 24 vitamins and minerals, each providing 35 percent of your recommended daily value. It also contains 5g of fiber and 16g of protein per serving and is made without artificial colors or flavors.

$46.00 at Amazon Buy Now

5. Garden of Life Raw Organic Food

Courtesy of Garden of Life

White also likes this Garden of Life meal replacement shake because it is “low in calories” and has no artificial colorants, flavors or sweeteners. Wong is also a fan of this shake because it contains 20 grams of pure protein from 13 raw sprouted ingredients, plus greens, healthy fats, 7 grams of organic fiber, probiotics and enzymes, and 21 vitamins and minerals. What else? This option also has a robust amino acid profile.

$40.94 at Amazon Buy Now

6. 310 Nutrition Meal Replacement

Provided by 310 Nutrition

which then linger, causing digestive discomfort,” says Rodriguez. “The 15 grams of protein in 310 shakes is perfect for avoiding this, yet still has enough protein to keep you feeling full; Thus, fewer calories are consumed throughout the day. To further support the feeling of satiety, 310 shakes are considered a high-fiber meal and 5g of fiber per serving. In addition to satiety, it helps regulate blood sugar levels and influence healthy cholesterol levels for overall heart health.”

Nutritionist and health coach Sierra Rodriguez, who works with 310 Nutrition, notes that 310 meal replacement shakes contain probiotics. “The gut microbiome is critical to overall health, and maintaining gut health is essential,” Rodriguez says. “Probiotics can help restore ideal gut flora throughout the body.”

$69.99 on Amazon buy now

7. Shakeology.

Provided by Team Beach Body

Shakeology Meal Replacements are also Wong’s favorite. They boast prebiotics, probiotics, digestive enzymes, adaptogens, fiber, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals and function as a comprehensive source of protein as they provide all 9 essential amino acids.

$129.95 at Amazon Buy Now

8. Isagenix IsaLean Meal Replacement

Provided by Isagenix

“The Isagenix IsaLean Shake is a great choice because it contains 24 grams of high quality protein, energy carbs and good fats, plus a blend of vitamins and minerals, and there are no artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners,” says Gnant. . IsaLean is available as both whey and plant based protein. Whey-based IsaLean shakes have 240 calories per serving, while plant-based IsaLean shakes have 250 calories. ”

$55.99 at Amazon Buy Now

The 4 Worst Meal Replacement Shakes You Can Buy.

The most unhealthy meal replacement shakes contain added sugar, artificial colors, flavors and/or sweeteners. These shakes do not provide a healthy balance of nutrients, while nutritious meals do.

1. Ensure Original Complete Nutritional Shake

Provided by Ensure

Gariglio-Clelland is not a fan of this option from Ensure. “Each bottle has a whopping 14 grams of added sugar and just 9grams of protein,” she says. Plus, it contains not one, but two artificial sweeteners. It feels like overkill when it already has 14 grams of regular sugar.”

2. Nature Fuel Keto Meal Replacement – Double Chocolate Milkshake

Provided by Vitamin Shoppe

“I wouldn’t recommend this meal replacement because it contains 40 percent of your recommended intake of saturated fat. Saturated fats are unhealthy fats that all Americans should strive to cut down on,” says Miller. This shake has only 8 grams of protein, so you’ll likely feel hungry hours after drinking. Despite the fact that this smoothie does not contain added sugar, it is one of the highest calorie smoothies. does not contain enough protein that you do not have to snack later.”

3. Odwalla Protein

Contributed by Odwalla

White is not a fan of this Odwalla offering because it’s just ‘too much sugar’. ‘ A serving of this seemingly healthy drink contains as much as 47 grams of sugar. more sweet than a can of cola.

As Richards says, “Many companies add sugar to their meal replacement shakes to improve the taste; however, eating more than 5–7 grams of sugar does not make a difference to your health.”

4. Nature’s Bounty Complete Protein and Vitamin Shake

Provided by Nature’s Bounty

“This meal replacement shake contains an equal ratio of carbohydrates and proteins,” says Richards. “The ratio of carbohydrates and proteins should be significantly different. Any meal replacement that contains nearly as many grams of carbohydrates as protein is not an ideal choice.”

Seal

Can Meal Replacement Shakes Help You Lose Weight? – Drink-Drink

Unlike protein shakes, meal replacement shakes are designed to provide nutrition for a complete meal (1).

Some are prepared in jars or bottles, while others are in powder form that can be mixed with milk or water.

Most shakes contain 200-400 calories and are high in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Meal replacement shakes are a convenient way to get healthy, low-calorie meals on the go for this reason.

However, their ingredients and nutrient composition can vary greatly, with varying proportions of proteins, carbohydrates and fats.

Here’s a full review of whether these shakes help with weight loss.

They can help you avoid junk food

Meal replacement shakes are portable and convenient, and they can help you resist the temptation to indulge in unhealthy processed foods.

In fact, one of the biggest obstacles to losing weight is the time it takes to prepare healthy meals.

When you’re stressed or in a hurry, it’s much easier to snack on convenience foods or fast food.

Unfortunately, typical processed foods can seriously undermine your weight loss efforts.

Most of them contain sugar, refined carbohydrates and artificial ingredients, and do not contain beneficial nutrients.

In addition, processed foods high in sugar, salt and fat activate the pleasure centers in the brain, which can also lead to overeating.2, 3, 4).

Conversely, eating healthy, whole foods is best for weight loss, but it’s not always practical when you have a busy schedule.

Meal Replacement Shakes are easy to drink on the go and are a much healthier alternative to fast food.

Bottom Line:

Meal replacement shakes are convenient. They are also a healthier alternative to fast food.

They provide nutrients that traditional diets may lack

Meal replacement shakes are designed to provide all the nutrients you should consume as part of a complete meal.

When you cut calories, it can be difficult to get all the nutrients you need from your diet.

Smoothies are often fortified with nutrients that can fill nutritional deficiencies while you cut calories.

The best meal replacement shakes contain protein, fiber and essential vitamins and minerals.

For example, many commercial smoothies are a good source of nutrients such as calcium, potassium, iron and vitamin D, which many people lack in their diets.

Bottom Line:

Because meal replacement shakes contain all the nutrients you should consume with meals, they can help you meet your nutrient needs while cutting calories.

They can help you lose weight faster

Reducing your calorie intake is the key to losing weight.

However, a low-calorie diet can be difficult, especially if you end up feeling hungry.

Meal replacement shakes help you feel full while eating fewer calories (5).

Several studies show that replacing one or two meals a day with a healthy meal replacement shake can speed up weight loss.6, 7, 8).

One study found that participants on a partial meal replacement diet plan lost 5.6 pounds (2.4 kg) more in three months than those on a low-calorie diet.9).

Interestingly, fewer people who followed the meal replacement plan dropped out of the studies. Perhaps because he was easier to follow.

Furthermore, one review found that four out of seven studies reported significantly greater weight loss with meal replacements than with the conventional diet. However, the other three studies found no difference in weight loss (7).

In addition, one study found that those who ate a meal replacement shake lost as much weight as those who ate a low-fat, low-calorie controlled diet (10).

In addition, some studies have shown that meal replacement shakes help reduce weight in diabetics.

In one study, liquid meal replacements resulted in 2-2% greater weight loss in obese patients with type 1 diabetes than a diet based on a diabetic exchange system. 11).

Those who consumed meal replacements also had lower fasting blood sugar and LDL cholesterol levels.11).

Another study showed that meal replacement shakes in people with type 2 diabetes contributed slightly more to weight loss than a regular diet.12).

Meal replacement shakes may also help maintain weight after weight loss has been achieved (13).

Bottom Line:

Meal replacement shakes may be helpful in reducing calorie intake and promoting weight loss.

Some of them are rich in protein, which helps to lose weight.

Not all meal replacement shakes are the same.

However, many of them are rich in protein, which is one of the most important nutrients for weight loss.

High-protein diets lead to greater satiety, which may help you consume fewer calories throughout the day (14, 15, 16, 17).

One study found that men on a high-protein diet reported fewer late-night food cravings than those on a moderate protein diet. 18).

In addition, high protein diets are associated with other benefits such as increased lean body mass, reduced body fat, reduced belly fat, and improved weight maintenance.19, 20, 21, 22, 23).

In a study comparing high protein and high carbohydrate meal replacements, both groups lost the same amount of weight in 12 weeks.24).

However, participants in the high protein group lost more fat and had lower levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol.24).

Finally, some meal replacement shakes are higher in protein than others, so choose a high protein, low sugar shake.

Bottom Line:

High protein meal replacement shakes can help you lose fat and lose weight.

Possible problems with meal replacement shakes

There are several benefits to using meal replacement shakes for weight loss.

They are convenient for an active lifestyle and useful for people who are struggling to limit their food intake.

However, there are some potential problems with meal replacement shakes.

Some contain unhealthy ingredients

Many meal replacement shakes are made with healthy ingredients.

Others contain unhealthy ingredients such as added sugar, corn syrup, partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, artificial flavors and chemical preservatives.

Unfortunately, some weight loss shakes contain more grams of sugar than grams of protein. This is why you should always read the label before purchasing a meal replacement shake.

Look for a high protein shake that also contains fiber and a list of ingredients you can say. A healthy meal replacement shake should contain no more than a few grams of sugar.

They may not be a long-term solution.

Meal replacement shakes may not be a long-term solution for weight control.

While many brands of shakes contain important nutrients, they are not a complete substitute for a healthy whole food diet.

In addition to vitamins and minerals, whole foods contain antioxidants, plant compounds and enzymes that are difficult to bottle.

Some smoothies contain fiber, although much less than whole foods such as fruits, vegetables and legumes.

In addition, drinking cocktails with meals is not a rational lifestyle for many people. This can be a socially isolating practice as many social activities involve food.

They do not correct unhealthy eating habits

In general, diets do not work for weight loss. Long-term weight loss requires long-term lifestyle changes.

While eating meal replacement shakes can help you lose weight, they don’t force you to change your eating habits.

If you simply go back to your old eating habits when you stop replacing meals with shakes, you will most likely gain weight again.

Bottom Line:

Meal replacement shakes are convenient and can help you lose weight. However, they may not be a long-term solution for maintaining a healthy weight.

How to Choose the Best Weight Loss Shake

To choose the best meal replacement shake for weight loss, ignore the information on the front of the package and read the ingredient list on the back.

Select a product with the following qualifications:

• At least 15 grams of protein per serving
• At least 3 grams of fiber per serving
• Less than 10 grams of sugar per serving
• No corn syrup
• No hydrogenated vegetable oils

9001 6 At least 33% of the daily value of vitamins and minerals

Meal replacement shakes use several different types of protein.

Whey protein has been found to improve satiety and is a good ingredient in meal replacement shakes.17).

You can also make your own meal replacement shakes at home. There are endless combinations of ingredients, but here’s one recipe worth trying:

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 cup frozen berries
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1- 2 scoops whey protein powder

Preparation

Blend all ingredients together in a blender until smooth.