Huel, Whole Supp and More

<p><strong><em>Read more: <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/uk/nutrition/g43790608/best-mass-gainers/” target=”_blank”>The Best Mass Gainers for Packing on Muscle in 2023</a></em></strong></p><p>It’s worth noting that there’s no ‘replacement’ for food, which is why what are typically referred to a ‘meal replacement shakes’ are often marketed as powdered foods instead. As we know, the body requires a complex variety of <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/uk/health/g31403737/multivitamins-guide/” target=”_blank”>vitamins and minerals</a> and while powdered shakes may indeed be a ‘complete food source’, the only thing that’s truly able to service your body’s needs long-term is a balanced and <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/uk/mhsquad/nutrition-membership/a28317796/how-to-eat-healthy/” target=”_blank”>healthy diet</a> full of whole foods. Substituting one or two meals a day is fine, according to the nutritionists we consulted when pulling together this guide, but by no means should you switch out regular food from your diet completely, nor should you over rely on powdered shakes for long periods. </p><p>With the disclaimers now out the way, you may be wondering whether a meal replacement is right for you and, if so, which you should buy. Well, as with all supplements, not every meal replacement shake is made equal. So, to set you up with the very best advice, we spoke to two <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/uk/nutrition/a40932512/sports-nutrition-awards/” target=”_blank”>sports nutrition</a> experts to help you in your decision making. Here’s everything you should know about when buying and using meal replacement shakes, plus a round-up of a handful of our expert-approved favourites.<br></p><h2 class=”body-h2″>What are Meal Replacement Shakes?</h2><p>As sports performance coach and qualified nutritionist <a href=”https://www.mrsport.org/” target=”_blank”>Yiannis Fleming</a> explains, powered meal replacement shakes are most typically used for aiding weight loss or for convenience. ‘Meal Replacement shakes are convenient powdered/liquid meals designed to replace your breakfast, lunch or dinner. They are marketed as being lower in calories and higher in protein than traditional meals and are usually packed with nutrients.'</p><p><a href=”https://crazynutrition.co.uk/” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>James Aitken</a>, nutritionist and head of product development at <a href=”https://crazynutrition.co.uk/” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>Crazy Nutrition</a>, gives a similar summary. ‘Meal replacement shakes can be a convenient way to manage your caloric intake as they should provide a balanced meal with plenty of vitamins and minerals.'<br></p><h2 class=”body-h2″>Who are Meal Replacement Shakes for?</h2><p class=”body-text”>Meal replacement shakes are mainly used for convenience when trying to lose or gain weight, says Aitken. ‘Whether you don’t have the time to prepare a healthy lunch and usually rely on junk food/eating out, or if you’re trying to eat extra calories between meals to support weight gain. Additionally, certain meal replacement shakes may be recommended by doctors and dieticians for people with health conditions who may struggle to consume enough food.’ </p><p class=”body-text”>The main benefits of meal replacement shakes are that ‘they’re convenient, usually portion-controlled and very filling, meaning it’s advantageous for those pursuing fat loss’, Fleming adds.</p><p class=”body-text”>’Another benefit for individuals with busy schedules and who struggle to meet their energy/nutrient demands is that these shakes are marketed as being “quick, easy and filled with everything they need”,’ says Fleming. ‘So, if you’re someone pursuing fat loss or who has a busy schedule, then these shakes may be advantageous.'<br></p><h2 class=”body-h2″>What to Look For and Avoid When Shopping for Meal Replacement Shakes</h2><p>So, you’ve decided that meal replacements may be beneficial to your lifestyle, but what should you look for (and avoid) when choosing one?</p><p>’Look for meal replacement shakes with quality protein sources such as whey, casein, pea, or rice protein, as they promote satiety and support muscle maintenance,’ says Aitken. ‘Dietary fibre is crucial for digestive health and appetite control. Healthy levels of beneficial fats such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are essential, but avoid excessive saturated fat,’ he adds.</p><p>’Ensure the shake includes essential vitamins and minerals for a balanced nutritional profile. Be on the lookout for large amounts of added sugar, which can lead to blood sugar fluctuations and increases in appetite. Steer clear of shakes with filler ingredients such as maltodextrin or thickening agents such as xanthan gum and guar gum which can cause stomach upset. Ultimately, ensure the nutritional information is in line with your specific goals, and as always, if you are unsure, consult your doctor or a registered dietician.'</p><p><strong><a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/uk/nutrition/g43617423/best-protein-powders/” target=”_blank”>Best Protein Powders</a> | <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/uk/building-muscle/a756812/mh-tried-tested-whey-protein/” target=”_blank”>Best Whey Protein Powders</a> | <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/uk/nutrition/g43363892/best-vegan-protein-powders/” target=”_blank”>Best Vegan Protein </a>| <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/uk/nutrition/g43790608/best-mass-gainers/” target=”_blank”>Best Mass Gainers</a> | <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/uk/nutrition/a757459/best-casein-protein-powder/” target=”_blank”>Best Casein Protein Powder</a></strong></p>”/>