What You Need To Known about Meal Replacements

Many people wonder whether meals replacements are healthy or safe way of losing weight. 

When you visit your local supermarket, you will notice a range of meal replacements boasting of their capabilities in reducing weight.  Although meal replacements are a great option for weight loss, they are not created in the same way. Therefore, it is important that you know which meal replacement if best for you.

What are meal replacements?

Meal replacements are nutritionally balanced, portion controlled meals that help to cut down your kilojoule intake. They come in different formulations, including soups, bars and shakes. Meal replacements are meant to replace one or two meals in your diet. Although they are not the perfect replacement for regular exercise and healthy eating, they have proven to be very useful in weight loss.

The only downside to meal replacements is that they are not for everyone. It is important that you speak to your GP just to ensure that you they won’t affect you.

Are meals replacements complete nutritional supplements?

Well, partial meal replacements are not nutritionally complete. They are not meant to provide you with all the nutrients that your body needs to function well, hence leaving you at higher risks of developing mineral and vitamin deficiencies.

Ensure that your diet is supervised by either a dietitian or your GP, who may actually suggest a different supplement. 

Depending on the recommendations of your dietitian or GP and the supplement you choose, you may replace up to two meals a day. Your GP will recommend meal replacement plan that requires you to eat other types of food to prevent dehydration and constipation. 

You may eat three snacks such as low-fat yoghurt, fruit, vegetable and two liters of water per day. 

Your GP or dietitian may recommend a product that is suitable for total meal replacement. It is important that you consider this carefully and once you have cut enough weight, you will need to return to your regular eating plan. You will also need to visit your GP or dietitian for personalize dietary advice to avoid regaining weight.

Do meal replacements work?

You cannot use meal replacements forever, but studies have shown that they are indeed safe and effective in the long run. You’ll however need to ensure that you eat healthy, balanced meals and exercise regularly to keep fit. 

You can buy partial meal replacements in supermarket and pharmacies.

Advantages

·        Meal replacements are convenient and quick. This makes it easier for you to incorporate them in your
schedule.

·        Since the meal choice has already been made for you, you don’t have to plan your meals.

·        You don’t have to worry about creating and following a healthy diet when you stop using meal replacements.

·        You can find support groups on the internet to help you through your weight loss journey.

Meal replacements are basically an effective and safe aid to losing weight, but it is important that you speak to your dietitian and GP when using them to ensure that you get the best results.