Do any of the "meal replacement shakes" actually help?

mrjason
mrjason Posts: 61 Member
edited September 2024 in Food and Nutrition
Ever since I've gotten on this site I've been bombarded by people trying to sell me the shakeology mumbo jumbo, or body by violet shakes. I'm all for shakes, I drink an EAS Carb Control almost every day at work, but I keep hearing that these are like miracles. Everytime someone starts a thread on these things, they're taken over by people who always end with "oh yeah, I sell these things too".

So, thinking about good old GNC, or really anywhere, can anyone recommend something that's filling, tastes good, and isn't crazy high in carbs? I've tried the Atkins ones, not bad, but not spectacular. Slimfast=slim not! The protien shakes that look like gatorade and taste like meat....pass!

I did a search and there's a lot of threads but nothing definitive.

I'd love to hear from people who use these things often. I can't imagine spending $150 on a drink is worth the money or the benefits. (If I hear the "how can you put a price on your health" line again, I'm going to pull 8 hairs out of my head.)

I'm not looking for Jesus in a bottle, or a cure for world hunger, I'm just looking for (finally) some honest feedback on these things. For me, it's easier than sitting down to a meal or plate of veggies at the office but other than the EAS Carb Control which are marginally ok at best, I haven't really found anything that's not attached to a multi level marketing ploy, or something that tastes like berry flavored beef. I'd love something that fills me up and gives me some kind of nutritional value. Period.

Thanks!

Replies

  • vayax
    vayax Posts: 152 Member
    I like the Herbalife shakes...I don't drink them every day but whenever I need something quick. I also add the protein to my smoothies. They are felling and keep me satisfied for a while. (I don't sell it ;)
  • lildazey
    lildazey Posts: 86 Member
    I use the Body Fortress Whey Protien shake, and usually add some sort of fruit. It tastes pretty good, and filling. Only 3 grams of carbs per scoop I think. I am interested in seeing the responses you get to this though!
  • dracobaby82
    dracobaby82 Posts: 380 Member
    Nutrilite Meal Replacement shakes are awesome! only around 190 calories and really taste good! There are Vanilla and Chocolate... I've never tried the vanilla ones because I'm more of a chocolate kinda girl lol... I do drink them very often, and yes I do sell them lol but they really are awesome... u can msg me for nutritional info if you want!

    I also have been using Whey protein powder as well... I mix with milk and they are great and filling!
  • thkelly
    thkelly Posts: 466 Member
    if you have the time make your own. blend up some fruit, some oats, natural peanut butter, etc. with protein powder and ice. use water or milk depending on how many calories you want and what kind of taste you prefer.

    the store bought ones are pretty pricey if you're drinking them every day and most have too much sugar imo
  • catesalim
    catesalim Posts: 18
    I use one from imetabolic.com which I really like. I used them for a majority of my meals a few years back, and it was a good jumpstart for me, but now I just use them now and then for a quick meal when I'm running late, or if I know I'm going to have a higher calorie lunch. I typically use the vanilla for breakfast, and add some instant coffee and benefiber. I've also mixed one scoop with frozen fruit for a smoothie either for a meal or a snack.
  • ChefJenn
    ChefJenn Posts: 350 Member
    i personally like just the good ol Slim fast ones. I dont have to mess up the kitchen , I can toss it in my bag and go.

    I also enjoy the BOOST high protein 8oz bottle too.

    Shakeology in my words is NOT WORTH THE MONEY.
    I didnt like it at all and it over priced too much , just so others can make money off you.
    I know too well those pyramid games.
    I worked many conventions at the GA World Congress Center with ppl selling stuff like this.
    again my own words... but you can be the judge of it.
  • CuteAndCurvy83
    CuteAndCurvy83 Posts: 570 Member
    I liked the slimfast ones for breakfast esp with a piece of fruit when I was working, It really helped keep me full til my snack or lunch.
  • katya143
    katya143 Posts: 313 Member
    I like them, not sure if its better for you, but i use gnc products! take a look at my food diary, I usually add extra water and blend with ice to make it a more fuller shaker!
  • ambernwms
    ambernwms Posts: 27
    I drink a protein shake in the morning its called EVOPRO by cytosport I have the flavor cookies and cream and it's really not bad at all it has 3g of carbs and they are 130 calories per serving. I get all of my supplements from bodybuilding they have the cheapest prices.

    (I also eat a fat free vanilla pudding cup or a piece of fruit my calorie intake for breakfast is 200 calories max.)
  • JohnnyNull
    JohnnyNull Posts: 294 Member
    No. Eat real food.
  • MaggieMay131
    MaggieMay131 Posts: 211 Member
    I really believe that the way these drinks "work" is simply limiting your calories. Shakeology, Slim Fast, whatever... there's no miracle to them, except that they have some ingredients that keep you fuller (protein, fiber, etc) and keep you from eating.

    I think anything that has a "plan" will work if you stick to it!! That goes for anything. Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, Slim Fast. The reason they work is because they're a set plan, people stick to it, it limits their calorie intake, and they lose weight. Period.

    Not sure if this is the type of answer you were looking for, but that's my 2 cents!
  • Wileyjoe
    Wileyjoe Posts: 282
    Nothing too magical about them - they are just what the term says "meal replacement". The added protein and probably some other ingredients do help keep you from getting hungry during the day. The added vitamins and other things added to the shake make it a good healthy meal.
  • Melissaol
    Melissaol Posts: 948 Member
    I use whet protein shakes. I have one for lunch. I mix fruit, skim milk. Not bad. You also can mix a tap of dry pudding for different flavors. Tastes good..
  • mrjason
    mrjason Posts: 61 Member
    "Whey" helpful! (pun intnded)

    I appreciate the honest and thoughtful feedback. I sort of expected to see these replies but every now and then someone comes along with the "next big thing". Ultimately I think I'll try some of the others for variety. I like the combo of low carb and high protein with something that doesn't taste awful. Believe me, if those other expensive shakes "worked", I'd buy them, but had the feeling they're mostly marketing.
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