In previous times, mankind was very much limited to what could be cultivated in a good season or what could be reared before the cold season. All over the world, ancient civilizations had to play a very delicate dance with nature in order to have access to food. High-quality foods were usually limited to nobility and upper class/ very wealthy individuals.   It is then a bit ironic that with the ease of access to many types of food, nutrition is at an all-time low. The kicker here is that the speeding up of life due to economic development has caused the emergence of highly processed foods. While these foods are quite filling, many times they lack the basic macro and micronutrients needed to sustain a healthy lifestyle.

For the person on the go who may be lacking in finances, time, or is simply looking a solution that fits into a busy lifestyle, a hot or cold meal replacement is one idea.

Meal replacements are densely packed with many essential macro and micronutrients that a diet built around processed food is devoid of. They can even be DIY projects for your body where you design your own meals, and incorporate these quick soups or shakes into your diet for a healthier you.

How to Use Meal Substitute Shakes

In truth, a meal replacement shake isn’t adequate on its own. The easiest approach to enjoy a meal replacement shake is to combine it with nutritious snacks that will help you convert it into a complete meal. You’ll be providing your body with all of the nutrition it requires to keep you moving throughout the day.

According to Wendy Bazilian, DrPH, RDN, author of The SuperfoodsRx Diet, each meal should contain 325 to 400 calories, 15 to 25 grams of protein, 5 grams of fiber, and 10 to 13 grams of healthy unsaturated fat. Otherwise, you’ll most likely become hungry again very quickly.