Protein shakes have become the new “it” thing lately. Science has shown us that protein shakes help cut the overall calories and allow you to boost your protein intake without excess cholesterol. From a study in 2001, shows that meal replacement, medication, and behavioral modification can increase your weight loss by twenty percent.
Protein shakes help increase satiety and control hunger. It can also help preserve lean muscle and allow you to lose fat. Plus, it can even boost your immune system. There are key differences between protein shakes and meal replacements. First, every protein shake is different. Some protein shakes are supposed to be meal replacements. The difference is a meal replacement in addition to protein and macro nutrients has micronutrients such as vitamins, minerals and trace elements in the right proportion for optimal cellular metabolism. Some protein shakes are intended to give you all the nutrients you will get from a regular meal.
So, what should you look for?
You need at least 15 grams of protein, less than seven grams of sugar, vitamins, minerals and at least four or five grams of fiber. Fiber is extremely important to have in your shake so make sure you get enough of it.
Studies show that using protein meal replacement as part of a comprehensive weight management can be very effective. They can be part of the Very Low Calorie Diets (VLCD) or Low Calorie Diets. VLCDs utilize meal replacement only as a source of nutrition. They lead to rapid weight loss and dieters can lose on the average four pounds per week. VLDs require medical supervision. They are only intended for short term use. It is a great way to jump start weight loss.
