Meal Replacement Shakes for Weight Loss

Meal replacement shakes for weight loss are not a new invention but they have improved over the years to become reasonably healthy formulas that are easy to prepare (just add water!) and nutritionally balanced.

Designed to meet various dietary requirements, meal replacement shakes for weight loss can be low GI, high fibre, low carb, low fat, high protein, gluten free or indeed, a combination of these in one rich, frothy drink! 

So, why would you opt for meal replacement shakes for weight loss over a nutritious breakfast, lunch or dinner?  Simply because they are a convenient alternative to eating real food, however, we don’t advocate doing this on a regular basis.

If you are struggling to lose weight and really finding the going tough, the occasional meal replacement shake could help lower your daily calorie intake and control your hunger but relying on these drinks is not a good idea if you desire long term weight loss.  While you may lose weight initially by replacing two meals a day with dietary shakes, once you return to eating normal meals, the weight will creep back on pretty quickly.

The other disadvantage of meal replacement shakes for weight loss is that sipping on a shake at mealtimes is not particularly sociable.  After all, sitting around a table sharing good food and conversation is surely one of life’s greatest joys and so much more than just an exercise in getting nutrients. Missing out on this important interaction seems a shame especially when there are so many weight loss friendly food options to choose from.

However, if you like the idea of meal substitution, perhaps you could try meal or dietary supplements that are designed to be eaten with a nutritious diet (ensuring you eat less) rather than instead of food.  Alternatively, snack replacements can be the ideal compromise enabling you to keep your calorie count down, your nutrient intake up, and mealtimes intact.