When it comes to weight loss, you need to be dedicated and have a high level of discipline or else you run the risk of falling off the wagon. The disciplined part comes into play when you are changing your diet. To help aid the process, people often resort to supplements like meal replacement formulas. These can be used at home or while on the road to aid your weight loss goals.
Function
Overeating is a big issue when it comes to weight gain. If you are unable to resolve this issue, then you will never be able to lose weight. Meal replacement formulas can be used to curb your appetite when you are feeling hungry. They also make a convenient meal on the run and a healthy alternative to an unhealthy snack. When you follow a multiple-meal-a-day plan to boost your metabolism, you can alternate whole food meals with meal replacement shakes throughout the course of the day. This gives a quick, easy meal with little preparation.
Features
Meal replacement formulas all have similar features. They are designed to keep your energy levels high and they all contain carbs, protein, fat and any number of vitamins. The amounts of these nutrients varies from brand to brand. Some are high protein and low in carbs while others are perfectly balanced. There are even weight loss meal replacements that are not only balanced with protein, carbs and fat, but are also a multi-vitamin formula.
Types
Chocolate, vanilla and strawberry are three basic flavors of weight loss meal replacements, and there are also more extravagant flavors such as cookies and cream, blueberries and cream, cappuccino, nutty berry blast and chocolate mousse. The majority of formulas contain whey, soy, egg white or milk protein. They are all designed to keep your appetite under control and soy is the only one that is safe for vegetarians. You can also use it if you have allergies to eggs or dairy.
Considerations
Meal replacements can come in powdered form or ready-to-drink formulas. They can both be purchased in bulk or in single servings. Before buying a bulk amount, you should run a test with an individual serving first. See if you like the taste and be aware of how your body reacts to it. If you like the taste and you do not feel any residual effects like bloating or gas, then go for the bulk.
Size
Calories are always a concern when it comes to weight loss. In order to lose weight, you need to create a caloric deficit where you are eating less calories than you are consuming. Meal replacements range from 160 to 220 calories per serving. You can spare yourself calories by using water instead of milk or soy milk when you shake them up or blend them. If you are using a replacement as part of a multiple-meal-a-day plan and you want to increase your calories, then you can use low-fat milk or add fruit to the blender.
Expert Insight
Remember that weight loss is a two part effort. Not only do you need to watch your diet, but you should also exercise to increase your caloric expenditure. With a reduction of 250 calories a day from your diet and 250 calories burned with exercise, you can lose a pound of weight a week. The weight loss formulas are a good supplement to add to your calorie restricted diet, but you should not rely on them completely.
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