Meal replacements are shakes used as a substitute for meals. They contain a few calories and more nutrients, like protein, carbs, as well as healthy fats. The primary intention of meal replacements is to lower calorie intake.
But are meal replacements workable and Do they accelerate weight loss? The worthiness of meal replacements depends on their ingredients.
Many meal replacement shakes contain high sugar and saturated fats that do not promote fat loss. One should choose the right meal replacement shake for the best results.
We will discuss the effectiveness and benefits of meal replacements, followed by characteristics of the best meal replacements in the blog.
The blog will help you make the right choice for your weight loss journey. First, let’s discuss whether meal replacement is good for weight loss.
Are Meal Replacement Shakes Useful for Weight Loss?
The concept of meal replacement started when one cannot get an adequate amount of nutrients from their diet. So, yes they support weight loss, even scientific studies also claim that meal replacements are worth your time or money.
According to a study meal replacements are the best weight-loss tools for obese premenopausal females.
Research also claims that people having metabolic syndrome lose weight significantly without losing fat-free mass when given nutrient-rich meal replacements.
Those conditions include abdominal or waist fat, high blood sugar, high cholesterol, as well as high blood pressure.)
In addition, meal replacements are equally workable as fat-reduction diets in obese Australians with enhanced triglycerides (fat in the bloodstream).
After analyzing these studies, we can conclude that weight loss enthusiasts can rely on meal replacement shakes for rapid fat loss.
Let’s get clued up about the pros and cons of meal replacement shakes!
Pros of Consuming Meal Replacement for Weight Loss
Meal replacement shakes come in different forms, including single-serving bottles and powder. One can mix powdered meal replacement shakes with milk or water.
Here are the top benefits of meal replacement shakes!
#1. Low in Calories with High Nutritional Values
Meal replacement shakes are low in calories relative to weight-reducing meals. They make the stomach feel full and stop you from reaching the takeaway fast food restaurant during snacking hours.
In addition, meal replacements are abundant with fiber, protein, carbohydrates, as well as healthy fats. That indicates these shakes may also cure nutrient deficiencies.
#2. Convenient to Consume
It might be challenging to keep track of calorie intake through diets, especially if you are a busy professional. Meal replacements help you to keep an eye on the number of calories you’re intaking each meal.
They are ready to consume and contain a particular amount of calories in each serving. That signifies you will know how many calories you ingest in a day.
#3. Lower Cholesterol and Blood Sugar Levels
According to a study, meal replacements are beneficial for lowering glycemic control, lipid parameters, and systolic blood pressure. (Glycemic control represents blood sugar levels in diabetes mellitus.
#4. Save time and money
Beef, fish, chicken, organic fruits or veggies, and other meats can be burdensome to your pocket. Not everyone can afford such diets.
On the other hand, meal replacements are more pocket-friendly than everyday health meals. They also save precious time.
But remember to buy a high-quality meal replacement shake. Picking a cheap shake to save money will not contribute to healthy weight loss.
As much as meal replacement shakes offer numerous benefits, they are not free from side effects. Continue reading further to learn the possible cons of meal replacement shakes.
Cons of Consuming Meal Replacement Shakes
One faces negative consequences after a meal replacement shake if it is of poor quality. In other words, a poor-quality meal replacement shake may cause health complications.
Here are the possible disadvantages of meal replacement shakes!
#1. May Contain Artificial Ingredients
Shakes may contain highly processed artificial ingredients that don’t have high nutritional value. In addition, meal replacements don’t contain enzymes and antioxidants.
The primary functions of enzymes are muscle building, breathing, detoxification, and digestion.
Contrarily, antioxidants eliminate the risk of ailments as well as prevent the body from oxidation-induced damage. Enzyme/antioxidant deficiency can lead to health issues.
#2. May High in Sugar
Some meal replacement shakes (even the reputed ones) contain more sugar than protein. Consuming excess sugar leads to weight gain. What’s the point of meal replacement shakes for weight loss, then?
Furthermore, some supplements don’t have information about sugar quantity on their labels. It is manufacturers’ trick to deceive people. Don’t fall into that trap. Always ask a customer care executive about the constituents of meal replacement shakes before final purchase.
#3. Can cause Gastrointestinal (GI) Side Effects
Gulping meal replacement shakes once or twice a day may not be troublesome.
If you consume it more than 4-5 times, you may experience problems like frequent bowel movements, bloating, stomach ache, discomfort, constipation, and excess gas.
Meal replacement shakes with heavily processed constituents may induce acid reflux. If symptoms are severe, you should consult the doctor instantly.
These side effects occur if one chooses poor-quality ingredients. That suggests you should buy a high-quality meal replacement.
In order to choose the best one always consider what are the nutrients of meal replacement shake and how they will benefit you.
How to Choose Meal Replacement Shake?
Meal replacement shakes are beneficial for promoting weight loss. They are low in calories and rich in vitamins as well as minerals. However, replace only one meal with a shake for better health, as these shakes can’t compete with the nutritional value of natural foods. In order to choose the best one here are a few points that you must consider. A high-quality meal replacement for weight loss has the following characteristics:
- 200-400 calories per serving
- Loads of fortified nutrients
- Low sugar and fat
- Adequate fiber
- Complete nutritional value
One such portable meal replacement that fulfills all the mentioned aspects is the PhenQ Meal Shake. Yes, you heard it right, it’s a one-stop solution for those who are looking for a safe and natural meal replacement to emphasize their weight loss goals.
As per PhenQ Meal Replacement reviews, it’s the best supplement one can opt for to accelerate weight loss with fulfilling nutritional value.
Although these shakes are safe to consume if you’ve any other queries, ask a certified health professional or nutritionist before consuming any shake.
