Whether you’re a stay-at-home mum cooking for five, a dad with an overwhelmingly busy schedule, or even a student with his essays long-past overdue – a meal replacement is something to really think about integrating into your lifestyle. Since cooking takes far too long, and time is equally important to everyone – meal replacements can take a large burden off of your shoulders and leave you enough time to devote to other, more important activities. And not only that, but meal replacements are that first step toward eating healthy, taking care of yourself, and leading a fulfilled and prosperous life.
In order to make the switch, you have to gather all the information regarding meal replacement products – and this just so happens to be the place to do so.
What Exactly is a Meal Replacement?
A meal replacement is a nutritionally balanced meal that is mainly used to help you cut on your total calorie intake – therefore promoting healthy weight loss. They usually substitute the two main macronutrients, protein and carbs, and can be also used during a bulking phase as in-between snacks. In addition, meal replacements come in all kinds of different shapes and sizes, including:
Protein Bars
Protein Shakes
Athletic Greens
Nut Spreads
Ice Creams
Healthy Chips
High-carbohydrate powders
Pancake mixes
Soup formulations
…and much more.
Meal Replacements’ Benefits
These products are effective because:
Meal replacements are portion-controlled. You can limit your energy intake as easily as ever.
Designed to fill you up. With meal replacements – you’ll feel more satiated between main meals.
Meal replacements are quick and convenient. You can easily plan your nutritional calendar without missing a thing.
Meal replacements are already done. It’s up to you how and when you’ll consume them.
Who Do Meal Replacements Suit?
These products are useful for:
Individuals without much time on their hands to cook regular meals at home
Individuals who tend to be overweight
Athletes who need additional sources of energy in-between their main meals
Tips on How to use Meal Replacements Most Optimally
In most cases, meal replacements are not real food replacements and should be used carefully and in consultation with a health care professional beforehand. However, these products can help you change your lifestyle for the better, and here’s how.
Balance Out Proteins and Carbs
Carefully look at product labels to determine the ratio of proteins to carbs. In fact, make sure that your meal replacements contain more proteins than carbohydrates – for the simple reason to prevent your blood sugar from dropping too much too quickly. This way, you’ll feel both satiated and well-nourished all at the same time.
Keep Meal Replacements as Your Backup Option
When you’re stuck at your working place and don’t have much time to venture outside for food – meal replacements can prove as viable an option as any. Put a stash of your favorite protein bar into your office fridge – real handy for those times when you just don’t have the time, nor inclination, to cook food.
Mix Some Meal Replacement Goodies Together With Your Salad
It’s a well-known fact that most of us just can’t push down enough protein during lunches. Given this notion – to take your favorite meal replacement supplement along with a salad would be an ideal choice. Just be sure that your meal replacement weighs in somewhere around 200 calories, while your salad clocks in at around 200 to 300 calories at maximum.
Go for an Afternoon Snack
When hunger strikes somewhere around three p.m. after lunch – it’s time to go for a protein-rich meal replacement snack. As said above, keeping your blood sugar in normal ranges is very important for maintaining an ideal weight.
Fuel your Workouts
Drink half a dose of your preferred meal replacement about half an hour before beginning with your workout. Finish the rest afterwards. This way, if your training plan involves flexing those muscles right on top of your lunch break – you’ll be energised and ready to go in no time.
This strategy also works if you plan to hit the gym after work.
Eat your Meal Replacement for Dessert
Instead of eating an unhealthy dose of a sugar-filled ice cream cone – opt for a vanilla-flavored meal replacement blend instead. This way you’ll be sure not to miss out on your favorite flavor while avoiding the sugar crash that patiently waits at the ready.
Are Meal Replacements Considered Safe?
In short – yes, meal replacements are considered safe. According to theWeight Management Council Australia, formulated meal replacements are safe and more effective over the long-term than most other weight management products. When using these products however, you should always consult with a registered dietitian to come up with a nutritional plan best aligned in accordance with your needs.
Are Meal Replacements Viable?
For all the reasons as stated above – yes. Meal replacements are an excellent choice that should be always used in conjunction with a trained healthcare person’s opinion.
