Meal Replacement Shakes

Meal replacement shakes are a great way to lose weight without starving yourself. They are portion controlled for you and portable. There are a variety of meal replacement shakes on the market, so take the time to find the one right for you. 

How They Work. Meal replacement shakes are shakes that offer similar nutrients to those found in a whole meal. They are generally packed with fiber and protein to keep your full until your next meal. Most programs recommend a shakes for breakfast and lunch with a sensible meal for dinner. 

What to Watch For. Some meal replacement shakes are high in sugar. Check out the labels to find as low sugar as possible. 3 grams per serving is about where you should be. Some can also be a bit chalky tasting, you may need to try a couple of different brands before you find one that works. Consider the powder to have more control over the taste and texture. 

Nationally Available Brands. Nationally available brands include SlimFast, store brand versions, Vitamin Milk and other. These can generally be found at Wal-Mart, grocery stores and other big box retailers. The general price for a carton of eight pre-mixed shakes is under $15.

Home Delivery Brands. Home delivery dieting is on the rise with the announcement of success with celebrities and programs like MediFast, Jenny Craig and Weight Watchers. All have their own version of meal replacement shakes and they come as part of the overall program.

Wellness Brands. Wellness brand meal replacement shakes are those manufactured and sold through retailers like GNC, the Vitamin Shoppe and others. These are available in a powder for the most part. Specially designed mixer bottles can help you get out the door fast and avoid washing your blender. These brands also offer complementary products that aid in weight loss and supplement your diet.