The Best Meal Replacement Shakes, According to Experts
Meal replacement shakes often get a bad rap. Many people think they’re full of bad-for-you ingredients, like excessive amounts of sugar, or that they taste like fruit-flavored, liquefied chalk.
It’s true that for the most part, it’s better for you to eat a full meal instead of grabbing one in a can. But if you’re short on time and need a quick fix, there are some meal replacement shakes that are good options for immediate fuel.
But what, exactly, makes for a good shake? “I tend to look for at least 25 grams or more of protein with the fewest ingredients possible,” says Elizabeth Ann Shaw, MS, RDN. You should also check the label for red flag ingredients, and “avoid flavors that have artificial dyes or coloring in them,” says Shaw. (You can find more information on how to ID a high-quality meal replacement shake here.)
Looking for something that can fill you up on the go? These are a few of our picks.
Orgain
amazon.com
$28.47
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Each shake has 250 calories and 16 grams of protein to keep you full and satisfied, says Dana Angelo White, MS, RD. Plus, it only has about 12 grams of sugar.
Amazon
Garden of Life
amazon.com
$32.89
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This one you’ll need to prepare yourself, but “it is a wonderful option for athletes,” says White. Two scoops has only 240 calories, which packs a whopping 40 grams of protein and 17 grams. Plus, it has only 2 grams of sugar.
Amazon
Premier Protein
amazon.com
$7.99
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“Premier Protein’s shakes have 30 grams of protein, 160 calories and one gram of sugar –and they taste really good,” says Shaw. They’re also super portable, so it’ll be easy to get the protein you need for a quick breakfast or post-workout recovery snack on the go, she adds.
Amazon
Muscle Milk
amazon.com
$35.76
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“This one contains more than 20% of the daily value for protein and potassium, [which are] two important nutrients to consider post-workout,” says Shaw. With 25 grams of protein, your munchies will be kept at bay. One note: even though it’s non-dairy, it contains milk protein, so avoid it if you have a true milk allergy, says Shaw.
Amazon
vega one
amazon.com
$49.99
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You also need to make this one yourself, but it’s worth the effort. It’s packed with essential vitamins and minerals thanks to ingredients like broccoli, carrots, and spinach, says Maggie Michalczyk, MS, RDN.
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