If you’re looking to try something new when it comes to losing weight, consider looking at meal replacement shakes.
[highlight color=”pink” content=”%3Cp%3EMeal%20replacement%20shakes%20have%20come%20to%20a%20long%20way%20in%20recent%20years.%20They%20are%20designed%20to%20provide%20the%20nutrients%20that%20your%20body%20needs%20but%20won%E2%80%99t%20leave%20you%20hungry%20and%20prone%20to%20overeating.%20Meal%20replacement%20shakes%20can%20be%20a%20great%20match%20for%20any%20weight-loss%20plan%20that%20you%20may%20already%20have%20in%20place.%3C%2Fp%3E” /]
Here are a few high points and notes to consider when it comes to finding the best meal replacement shakes for weight loss.
Information to know when looking for the best meal replacement shakes
Meal replacement shakes are packed with calories and nutrients that are designed to serve as a substitute if you are prone to missing entire meals. They’re a quick option for people who are on the go but want to grab something healthy, yet filling, and avoid the drive-thru lane entirely.
It may seem obvious, but you’ll want to make sure that you’re paying close attention to everything on the ingredient list of any meal replacement shakes that you’re considering. Not all shakes are all that healthy, and each and every ingredient matters, and that’s exactly why we put together this list for you.
Protein fills your body quickly and is a key component of the best meal replacement shakes, meaning that you’ll have fewer hunger issues if your protein intake is higher. And if you work out often, protein goes a long way towards rebuilding your muscles and keeping them healthy and strong while living an active lifestyle.
Calories are a major player in dictating your energy level, so you’ll need to be sure that any meal replacement shake that you settle on has enough calories to do that, but without going overboard. You can always supplement a meal replacement shake with nuts or fruit if needed, so try and find a happy medium when it comes to calories.
The products you’ll find in this space are gender-neutral; the best meal replacement shakes for men tend to also be the best meal replacement shakes for women.
Okay, let’s get into it. Without further ado, the best weight loss meal replacement shakes.
Best Meal Replacement Shakes
[product_tables id=”1951″]
[numbered-heading label=”Ample Meal” /]
Right off the bat, we see just how important the makeup of ingredients is in the No. 1 pick on our list of meal replacement shakes.
[highlight color=”pink” content=”%3Cp%3EAmple%20Meal%E2%80%99s%20ingredients%20are%20100%20percent%20natural%2C%20non-GMO%20and%20completely%20free%20of%20BPA%2C%20artificial%20sweeteners%20and%20flavors%2C%20gluten%2C%20and%20soy.%20Everything%20is%20organic%2C%20and%20you%20don%E2%80%99t%20need%20to%20worry%20about%20where%20the%20ingredients%20in%20your%20supposedly%20healthy%20shake%20came%20from%2C%20as%20you%20might%20with%20some%20options%20out%20there.%3C%2Fp%3E” /]
Ample Meal is 54 percent premium, healthy fats and includes 27 percent protein. You’ll find the right amount of fiber, organic greens, and six different strains of probiotics in there, too. And after all that, there are still only four grams of sugar included while the shake still sits at 400 calories.
The cherry on top is that the shake tastes great, too. It’s a creamy, frothy blend with a hint of sweetness and a taste of vanilla and cinnamon. This product comes as a dry powder that is already portioned out, and you only need to add cold milk or water to make this shake come to life, and it may just be the best-tasting meal replacement shake on the market.
It isn’t every day that you’ll find the best of all worlds when it comes to the best meal replacement shakes, but here we are. Ample Meal might be the easy — and correct — answer.
[pros-and-cons pros=”-100 percent natural, organic, non-GMO, non-BPA
-No artificial sweeteners or flavors, soy-free, gluten-free
-Plenty of protein and healthy fats
-Great-tasting product
-400 calories
” cons=”-None” /]
[call2action label=”See Product Details” link=”https://www.amplemeal.com/products/ample” color=”yellow” rel=”no-follow” target=”blank” /]
[numbered-heading label=” Garden of Life” /]
[highlight color=”pink” content=”%3Cp%3EThis%20is%20one%20of%20the%20best%20organic%20meal%20replacement%20shakes%20on%20the%20market%2C%20as%20it%20includes%2020%20grams%20of%20clean%2C%20organic%20plant%20protein%20and%2044%20superfoods.%20The%20superfoods%20include%20organic%20grass%20juices%20and%20fruits%20and%20veggies%20to%20make%20sure%20to%20check%20all%20the%20boxes%2C%20contributing%2021%20vitamins%20and%20minerals%20to%20this%20product.%3C%2Fp%3E” /]
The Garden of Life shake is non-GMO and completely gluten-free, kosher, and vegan while remaining soy-free and dairy-free. Also included are six grams of fiber and plenty of probiotics and enzymes that contribute to easy digestion, and there are four flavors to choose from. The only downside is that there are only 115 calories per serving — easily the lowest of any review we conducted.
That said, it will be hard to find such a wide-ranging blend of beneficial nutrients elsewhere when you’re perusing the best meal replacement shake reviews. Garden of Life is where it’s at.
[pros-and-cons pros=”-20 grams of clean, organic plant protein
-44 superfoods and 21 vitamins and minerals
-Non-GMO, free of gluten, soy, and dairy
-6 grams of fiber
” cons=”-Only 110 calories per serving” /]
[call2action label=”See Product Details on Amazon” link=”https://amzn.to/34JXs23″ color=”yellow” rel=”no-follow” target=”blank” /]
[numbered-heading label=” Huel” /]
[highlight color=”pink” content=”%3Cp%3EThe%20drink%20that%20you%E2%80%99ll%20enjoy%20once%20you%E2%80%99ve%20mixed%20the%20powder%20with%20cold%20water%20is%20high%20in%20protein%20and%20fiber%20while%20staying%20low%20in%20sugar.%20According%20to%20Huel%2C%2037%20percent%20of%20the%20energy%20in%20their%20product%20comes%20from%20carbohydrates%2C%20with%20about%2030%20percent%20each%20coming%20from%20fat%20and%20proteins.%20Also%2C%20there%20is%20about%20eight%20grams%20of%20fiber%20per%20100g%20of%20the%20powder.%3C%2Fp%3E” /]
If you purchase the Huel Starter Kit, you’ll get two large pouches of nutritionally complete, 100 percent vegan powdered meal, plus the scoop, shaker, and booklet that will tell you everything you need to know about the product.
Huel is fairly self-contained and easy to prep, and for that reason is a solid choice when it comes to meal replacement drinks.
[pros-and-cons pros=”-100 percent vegan, made will all real food
-High in protein and fiber
-Low in sugar
-Starter kit comes with plenty of useful items
” cons=”-Not a lot of variety in taste
-Comes in huge pouches, which is inconvenient if you end up not liking the product” /]
[call2action label=”See Product Details on Amazon” link=”https://amzn.to/2EFZq8V” color=”yellow” rel=”no-follow” target=”blank” /]
[numbered-heading label=”MET-Rx” /]
[highlight color=”pink” content=”%3Cp%3EMET-Rx%E2%80%99s%20Meal%20Replacement%20has%2025%20essential%20vitamins%20and%20minerals%2C%20including%2090%20percent%20of%20your%20daily%20calcium%20needs.%20Most%20mind-blowing%20is%20the%20whopping%2036%20grams%20(!)%20of%20protein%20included%20in%20each%20serving%2C%20helping%20you%20make%20sure%20you%20stay%20full%20and%20that%20your%20muscles%20are%20working%20efficiently%20and%20effectively.%3C%2Fp%3E” /]
Also included are three grams of L-Glutamine and more than six grams of branched-chain amino acids derived from the massive amounts of protein.
This particular product is awesome when it comes to exercise recovery; between the protein and amino acids, your body will be fueled and ready to go and will refuel quickly after your workout. It also has 250 calories per serving, further contributing to a feeling of fullness and a clear boost in energy.
MET-Rx also has a rich chocolate flavor, all while remaining low-fat and aspartame free. While gluten-free, there are no claims about the exclusion of any other common allergens.
[pros-and-cons pros=”-36g of protein and 90 percent of daily calcium needs
-Includes 25 vitamins and minerals
-Delicious (but low-fat) chocolate taste
-Aspartame-free and gluten-free
” cons=”-Does not appear to be free of preservatives or other additives” /]
[call2action label=”See Product Details on Amazon” link=”https://amzn.to/3bc84YS” color=”yellow” rel=”no-follow” target=”blank” /]
[numbered-heading label=” Iconic” /]
That’s right, each bottle of Iconic Grass-Fed Protein includes 20 grams of premium protein that comes from grass-fed cows in New Zealand. It’s a shake that will be compatible with your paleo or keto diets and includes just three grams of sugar, four grams of fiber, and 130 calories.
Aside from simply being clean and natural, the benefits to grass-fed protein in this shake extend from being lactose-free to offering a complete amino acid profile with easy digestibility and electrolytes, including potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. All of these electrolytes contribute massively to post-workout recovery.
[highlight color=”pink” content=”%3Cp%3EAll%20of%20Iconic%E2%80%99s%20products%20are%2C%20of%20course%2C%20non-GMO%20and%20are%20lactose-free%2C%20gluten-free%2C%20and%20soy-free%20without%20including%20any%20artificial%20ingredients%20or%20sweeteners%20and%20never%20being%20exposed%20to%20pesticides%20of%20any%20kind.%3C%2Fp%3E” /]
There are five flavors available: Vanilla Bean, Cafe Au Lait, Chocolate Truffle, Coconut Matcha, and Golden Milk.
The only true downside to Iconic Grass-Fed Protein is the lack of calories. If you want to treat this product as a true meal replacement, you’ll be hard-pressed to stay full on just 130 calories. But that said, if you pair Iconic’s shake with a light helping of fruit or nuts, you should be in business.
[pros-and-cons pros=”-All-natural, non-GMO product including grass-fed, premium protein
-Paleo and keto friendly
-Only includes three grams of sugar
-Free of lactose, gluten, and soy
” cons=”-Only 130 calories per serving” /]
[call2action label=”See Product Details on Amazon” link=”https://amzn.to/31G3AGC” color=”yellow” rel=”no-follow” target=”blank” /]
[numbered-heading label=”RSP TrueFit” /]
The blend includes 12 non-GMO fruits and vegetables and 16 essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium and vitamin B. Plus, there are five grams of essential branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and 25 grams of whey protein in each serving.
[highlight color=”pink” content=”%3Cp%3EA%20bonus%20for%20RSP%20True%20Fit%20is%20the%20high%20level%20or%20probiotics%20and%20enzymes%20included%2C%20which%20promotes%20improved%20gut%20health%20and%20much%20easier%20digestion.%20There%20are%20eight%20grams%20of%20fiber%20included%2C%20mostly%20derived%20from%20sweet%20potato%20powder%20and%20the%20low-glycemic%20carb%20VitaFiber.%3C%2Fp%3E” /]
This product is gluten-free and contains no added sugars or preservatives, including maltodextrin, and there have been no artificial colors or flavors added, either.
This is a great blend of proteins, fiber, essential amino acids, healthy fats, and fruits and veggies. RSP True Fit is an excellent match for a post-workout shake or as a meal replacement, although the 160 calories suggest that you may want to supplement your supplement with a healthy side item.
[pros-and-cons pros=”-Real food product that includes 12 fruits and veggies
-16 vitamins and minerals
-8 grams of fiber and 5 grams of BCAAs
-Gluten-free with no added sugars, preservatives, colors, or flavoring
” cons=”-Only 160 calories per serving
-Chocolate and vanilla are only flavor choices” /]
[call2action label=”See Product Details on Amazon” link=”https://amzn.to/2EHB2Ua” color=”yellow” rel=”no-follow” target=”blank” /]
[numbered-heading label=”Soylent” /]
[highlight color=”pink” content=”%3Cp%3EThis%20product%20includes%20400%20calories%20and%2020%20grams%20of%20protein%2C%20so%20you%20shouldn%E2%80%99t%20have%20any%20problems%20filling%20up.%20And%20if%20you%E2%80%99re%20looking%20for%20the%20best%20vegan%20meal%20replacement%20shake%2C%20this%20drink%20is%20entirely%20plant-based%20and%20vegan-friendly%20and%20includes%20soy%20protein%20isolate%2C%20slow-burning%20carbs%20from%20beets%2C%20and%20only%20the%20most%20essential%20vitamins%20and%20minerals.%3C%2Fp%3E” /]
Soylent is also dairy-free and gluten-free and contains L-Theanine, an amino acid found in green tea that counteracts any jittery effects you may experience from caffeine. Which is important, because Soylent includes 150mg of caffeine, or about what you might get from a strong cup of coffee.
But because of the flavor and levels of caffeine, combined with the zero prep required — that’s right, this is a grab-and-go situation — Soylent’s meal replacement drink is perfect for a quick breakfast between the gym and the office.
[pros-and-cons pros=”-Plant-based and vegan-friendly
-Dairy-free and gluten-free
-Includes caffeine and L-Theanine
-400 calories
-No prep required
” cons=”-Has a fair amount of caffeine” /]
[call2action label=”See Product Details on Amazon” link=”https://amzn.to/3bc8eiW” color=”yellow” rel=”no-follow” target=”blank” /]
[numbered-heading label=”Labrada” /]
[highlight color=”pink” content=”%3Cp%3EThere%20are%2022%20vitamins%2C%20and%20minerals%20included%20that%20add%20to%20the%20fortification%20offered%20by%20Labrada%2C%20and%20assist%20in%20the%20stabilizing%20of%20blood%20sugar%20and%20curbing%20of%20food%20cravings.%20Plus%2C%20the%20shake%20is%20gluten-free%2C%20sugar-free%2C%20and%20lactose-free%2C%20eliminating%20many%20of%20the%20most%20common%20allergens.%3C%2Fp%3E” /]
One of the unique things that stands out about Labrada is that they have been performing third-party, independent lab testing on all of their products for more than 20 years, so you know that what you’re getting is exactly what it says on the label.
You can purchase Labrada in eight different flavors, including Bananas & Cream, Cafe Mocha, Chocolate, Cinnamon Bun, and more.
[pros-and-cons pros=”-40 grams of protein per serving
-Includes 22 vitamins and minerals
-The product is third-party lab tested
-Eight flavors to choose from, the product comes ready to drink
” cons=”-No claims about avoiding preservatives or additives” /]
[call2action label=”See Product Details on Amazon” link=”https://amzn.to/3hGPxWP” color=”yellow” rel=”no-follow” target=”blank” /]
[numbered-heading label=”310″ /]
The 310 product is completely sugar-free as well as gluten-free and soy-free and does not include any artificial sweeteners or flavorings. There are 15 g of the Tri-Plex proteins, including brown rice, pea, and hemp protein that contribute to lean muscle development.
[highlight color=”pink” content=”%3Cp%3EThe%20shakes%20also%20include%20plenty%20of%20probiotics%2C%20which%20is%20never%20a%20given%20with%20meal%20replacement%20products%2C%20as%20well%20as%20up%20to%2020%20vitamins%20and%20minerals%20to%20contribute%20to%20the%20overall%20benefit%20of%20the%20product.%20It%20is%20also%20high%20in%20fiber%20and%20will%20help%20provide%20a%20natural%20energy%20boost.%3C%2Fp%3E” /]
There are only 90 calories in each serving of the 310 shakes, however, which won’t necessarily go a long way if you want to make sure that you are completely full after enjoying this product.
All that said, this is certainly one of the best meal replacement protein shakes for weight loss.
[pros-and-cons pros=”-Sugar-free, gluten-free, and soy-free
-No artificial sweeteners or flavorings
-Includes 15g of Tri-Plex proteins
-Includes plenty of probiotics and 20 vitamins and minerals
” cons=”-Only 90 calories per serving, may want to plan to supplement shakes with a healthy snack” /]
[call2action label=”See Product Details on Amazon” link=”https://amzn.to/2QxrVYO” color=”yellow” rel=”no-follow” target=”blank” /]
[numbered-heading label=”Kate Farms” /]
There are 16 grams of plant-based protein included while the product remains vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free, and corn-free, greatly reducing allergy concerns. Additionally, Kate Farms’ Komplete has a low glycemic index, which forces your body to digest the product slower, allowing for a better rate of nutrient absorption.
[highlight color=”pink” content=”%3Cp%3EKomplete%20includes%2024%20vitamins%20and%20minerals%2C%20which%20add%20up%20to%2035%20percent%20of%20the%20daily%20recommended%20value%20of%20those%20compounds.%20As%20a%20bonus%2C%20there%20are%20antioxidants%20from%2029%20superfoods%20included%2C%20too.%3C%2Fp%3E” /]
Each shake has 290 calories, placing it solidly in the middle of meal replacement shakes when it comes to the number of calories included. The fiber and fat balance is solidly middle-of-the-road as well.
Kate Farms’ Komplete is available in vanilla, coffee, or chocolate, and includes all-natural flavoring with no chemical additives or artificial sweeteners.
[pros-and-cons pros=”-All-natural, vegan
-Free of all common allergens (soy, dairy, gluten, corn)
-Low-glycemic includes 24 vitamins and minerals and 29 antioxidants
-290 calories
” cons=”-The average amount of fiber and fat” /]
[call2action label=”See Product Details on Amazon” link=”https://amzn.to/31EKuRj” color=”yellow” rel=”no-follow” target=”blank” /]
Additional information
Let’s put a bow on this rundown by looking at some of the common themes found throughout this list of products.
While there is certainly a wide calorie range, the best products generally had the higher caloric intake. Remember, you need to make sure that you’re getting enough in the way of calories to compensate for a full meal that is being eliminated from your daily routine. Just 160 calories won’t cut it by itself, so if you go with a lower-calorie option than you’ll need to make sure that you’re adding some fruit and veggies on the side.
[highlight color=”pink” content=”%3Cp%3EThe%20other%20key%20thing%20to%20pay%20attention%20to%20is%20the%20amount%20of%20protein%20per%20serving.%20While%20you%E2%80%99ll%20generally%20find%20much%20more%20protein%20in%20meal%20replacement%20shakes%20than%20in%20bars%2C%20there%20are%20definitely%20some%20options%20that%20aren%E2%80%99t%20as%20high%20in%20protein%20as%20we%E2%80%99d%20like.%3C%2Fp%3E” /]
There are plenty of ancillary benefits included in most of the above-listed products, from probiotics to improve gut health, to antioxidants, to a variety of vitamins and minerals. While not necessarily central to the goals of meal replacement shakes, some of these bonus components could be nice tiebreakers as you make your purchasing decision.
You’ll also want to be sure to note which of these products are shelf-stable and can easily be thrown into a gym bag or purse, versus how many come in larger containers and need to be portioned out and mixed with water or milk. It comes down to personal preference and convenience; make sure you aren’t surprised when your purchase shows up at your door.
Final Thoughts
If you’re sold on losing weight and adding muscle to your frame, then consider trading in a meal or two each week with one of the meal replacement shakes on this list. It’s a viable option and can be a healthy choice if you go about it the right way — and by that, we mean to consult with your doctor before you do anything crazy.
[highlight color=”pink” content=”%3Cp%3EThe%20general%20recommendation%20in%20the%20medical%20community%20is%20that%20you%20don%E2%80%99t%20cut%20more%20than%20one%20meal%20a%20day%2C%20or%20more%20than%20a%20small%20handful%20in%20a%20week.%20After%20all%2C%20you%20need%20to%20be%20absolutely%20sure%20that%20you%E2%80%99re%20getting%20enough%20calories%20–%20especially%20if%20you%E2%80%99re%20going%20hard%20in%20your%20workouts.%3C%2Fp%3E” /]
At the end of the day, make sure you’re getting enough calories and proteins in the meal replacement shake that you select, and pay attention to some of the extra potential benefits you might be able to find as well.
And there you have it. The best meal replacement shakes for weight loss. Enjoy!