Meal replacement shakes may help your diet, but they won't do all the work for you. They can help you lose weight or build muscle, depending on the type of shake you choose. In either case, the shakes are meant to replace at least one of your regular meals each day, although they cannot control your eating habits the rest of the day.
Convenience and Cost
Meal replacement shakes can be convenient. They come in either a powder that you mix into a shake or a ready-to-drink liquid form. They generally cost less than $5 per serving. Their convenience only holds up, however, if you have them readily on hand when you need them. If you're out and about -- and hungry --, it might be easier to find a bagel joint than it would be to seek out a place that sells meal replacement shakes.
Nutrition
Trading your cheeseburger or pizza slice for a meal replacement shake is a healthier, lower-calorie option. The shakes are generally low in calories and simple sugars but high in appetite-quelling protein and fiber. Drinking too many of them for too long, however, can eventually lead to detrimental health effects. Women Fitness notes the high protein content can possibly lead to kidney damage or other ailments. while using the shakes beyond their recommended dosages might lead to deficiencies in your diet.
Weight
Meal replacement shakes meant to slim you down can lead to quick weight loss, especially if you are obese, but they don't guarantee the weight will stay off. Shakes can help your diet by keeping your daily calories low and automatically controlling your potion size.
If you're looking to gain muscle with meal replacement shakes, they can help by increasing your calories and protein intake, but you still have to lift the weights. While the shakes can assist in reaching your goals, it's up to you to make the habit and lifestyle changes to ensure long-term success.
Considerations
Meal replacement shakes generally only work if you stick to a strict eating schedule, which is not an easy feat for everyone. Although they come in a variety of flavors, they'll be hard-pressed to please your palate if you enjoy a lot of textures and foods. The protein in the shakes is animal-based, which means you might have to skip the shake option altogether if you follow rigid vegan eating habits.
Member Comments