It sounds so simple – you just open the tin of powder, add the correct amount of skimmed milk, mix it all up in a blender and Bob’s your uncle, you are on your way to weight loss.
In theory it’s a great idea. You get exactly the amount of energy and nutrients you need to successfully and healthily lose weight, all in a handy shake.
The reality is a little different. Many people find that they quickly bore of the bland flavours, while not chewing anything till teatime and the lack of variety in food textures may also be a downside to this type of diet.
There are two types of meal replacement diets. These include commercially available diets such as SlimFast, and medically supervised diets such as The Cambridge Diet. Over-the-counter plans suggest that you replace two meals and one snack with their product, then eat a balanced, low-fat meal in the evening. Medically supervised plans use meal replacement formulas to substitute your entire food intake for the day. These are usually very low in calories.
While it is possible to lose weight with these diets, they can be hard to stick to in the long term. And, contrary to popular belief, they definitely do not shrink your stomach! The stomach is designed to expand when you eat and contract when you are fasting.
Like every other type of diet, these diet shakes simply provide you with a deficit of calories, which causes you to use your fat stores for energy… provided you could stick to the plan that is!
They don't teach you about the importance of controlling portions and healthy eating which are of utmost importance for weight loss. Any weight lost whilst following a meal replacement diet plan is likely to be regained after you return to your regular way of eating, so you'll be back to square one again. Only your pockets will be lighter as a result!