Meal Replacement Shakes

[vjack316]

Hi,
Just read your recent articles. Thanks again for some awesome advice.

What do you think about Atkins shakes, Slim Fast shakes and the like? Are they adequate to replace lunch or an evening meal?

Thanks again!

[Warrior]

Thank you! I like to hear that the articles are beneficial.

Meal replacement shakes ideally are adequate to replace a meal as far as the protein, carbs, and smaller nutrients your body needs. The trick is to find a good one that you also like!

Slim Fast shakes contain fat and a lot of sugar, so it's almost like eating ice cream, except it has more protein. I wouldn't recommend it. See nutrition labels here:

http://www.slim-fast.com/products/product-category.asp?category_id=676&bhcp=1

Atkins shakes are low carb, and therefore do not have much sugar at all, but they do contain fat. I wouldn't do that either:

http://www23.netrition.com/atkins_ready_to_drink_shakes_page.html

Ironically, the ones that are highly marketed to help you lose weight are the ones that slow down the process.

Your best bet is to create your own meal replacement by mixing a protein shake with fruit, milk, yogurt, water etc, so you can cut out the fat and control your own sugars and carbs based on the time you drink it. It's a little more work, but it's worth it.

Among others, a good brand to try is Jay Robb's. It is high quality protein with hardly any fat, and no artificial sweeteners. I like it because it mixes easily and actually tastes great!

http://www.bodybuilding.com/store/jay/whey.html

If you want a Ready to Drink shake, you could try Myoplex Lite. It actually comes in powder or ready made. It's low fat, low sugar, and has protein:

http://www.global-nutrition-inc.com/es-009.html

The Vitamin Shoppe carries a lot of good products, so it's a good idea to check them out.

I hope I didn't bombard you with info! If you have more questions, feel free!