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The science behind meal replacement shakes

You've no doubt heard about meal replacement shakes and might even have a few friends who have used meal replacement shakes to help lose weight or to improve their health. But what exactly is a meal replacement shake, how do they work – and what are the benefits of them? We take a look.

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almased
almased

What is a meal replacement shake?

A meal replacement shake is a powdered blend of ingredients designed to help boost your metabolism and increase your chances of weight loss. When blended with milk, water or oil, they are designed to help you feel as full as you would with a meal, but with fewer calories and a good boost to the metabolism.

Do meal replacement shakes work?

Meal replacement shakes are a 'liquid fast', giving the body fewer calories than a meal but their make-up is designed to fill you up for longer. That aside, the feeling of fullness helps to stop the urge for sugary snacking and carbohydrate-heavy dinners. When combined with a healthy diet, meal replacement shakes can help you to lose weight and improve overall health.

Are meal replacement shakes healthy?

Some are, and some aren't, so it's worth checking the ingredients before you invest. Almased, the number one most popular meal replacement in Germany*, it uses soya, yoghurt and enzyme-rich honey in their natural fermented blend and is packed with antioxidants and essential minerals, including vitamin C and zinc which supports a healthy immune system.**

What about the protein value of meal replacement shakes?

Again, not all meal replacement shakes are equal. Some are a little lean on protein, which is essential for keeping your metabolism thriving and your muscles healthy. If protein value is key for you, Almased is a good option as it contains more protein than any other meal replacement shake on the market – giving a massive boost to your metabolism and filling you up for longer. The more full you are, the less likely you are to reach for the calorific, sugary snacks or overload on calories at dinner.

ALMASED-DIET-Z (1)
ALMASED-DIET-Z (1)

Are meal replacement shakes good for you?

They can help improve your health - weight loss in itself is a great benefit for those whose weight is causing health problems. Weight aside, though, one of the biggest things meal replacement shakes can help with is managing Type 2 diabetes. Formula diets can be used as a natural tool for those with Type 2 diabetes, with studies showing some even went into clinical remission in diabetes treatment when following a formula diet. With a low Glycaemic Index (GI), Almased has been scientifcally proven to have a positive effect on those with the condition, improving weight loss, long-term blood glucose levels and reducing insulin requirements.*** Foods with a low GI increase the feeling of fullness and keeps blood sugar levels low- so the body’s requirement for insulin in reduced. As a result of this lower insulin requirement, fat stores are utilised for energy, making it easier for those with Type 2 diabetes to lose weight.

Almased is Germany's No.1 meal replacement for healthy, sustainable weight loss. It is supported by over 30 years of scientific research and provides the body with optimum nutrition. Almased's product range is available to purchase from Boots, Lloyds pharmacy, Amazon and local independent chemists.

*Euromonitor International (2019), **Vitamin C and Zinc contribute to the normal function of the immune system, ***Kempf, K et al (2017) Diabetes Care; Jul 40(7): 863-871.