Lunch to go: a meal in a drink

Many people live fast-paced lives. This calls for flexible solutions, not least when it comes to eating. People who forget to eat breakfast in the morning, don't have time for a balanced meal in their lunch break or aren't in the mood to cook in the evening are increasingly reaching for a meal replacement drink.

We've seen meal replacement drinks before. They feel like a throwback to the nineties, when such shakes were advertised non-stop on the shopping channels. Today's products are very different to those earlier diet drinks, though: the taste, consistency and nutritional content have been vastly improved.

Everything in one bottle

Meal replacement drinks promise practical, balanced nutrition: fast, uncomplicated and with all the important nutrients you need. One bottle usually contains around five hundred calories, meaning that it is intended to be a complete meal in itself, rather than a protein shake to supplement your diet. They generally provide a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins and healthy fats – much like what would be in a conventional meal.

Are they a substitute for actual meals?

While meal replacement drinks are extremely convenient, they cannot replace proper meals entirely. Drinking does not involve chewing, which normally plays a role in making us feel full and helps the body register the intake of food. What's more, the social and sensory aspects of eating – sharing a meal with family, friends or colleagues, or experiencing the aroma, texture and look of a dish – often fall by the wayside when meals are taken in liquid form. These elements are often completely lacking when you opt for a meal replacement drink.

Keep an eye on your calorie intake

As meal replacement drinks are consumed quickly, the sensation of feeling full may not last long, with the result that you end up eating other things later in the day. If they are seen more as a drink than a meal, meal replacement drinks can unintentionally result in higher calorie consumption, leading to weight gain. If you get peckish after having a meal replacement drink, it's easy to reach for other foods as well. However, these negative effects can be avoided if meal replacement drinks are used carefully and consumed as complete meals.

Targeted use is the way to go

When consumed as part of a healthy diet, meal replacement drinks definitely have their place – for example on days when things absolutely have to be quick and easy, or when you want to avoid unhealthy alternatives. The key is to ensure they are consumed mindfully rather than just being an addition to your regular diet.
Meal replacement drinks are not recommended for children. Diabetics can consume them but must seek medical advice first. Many products are also lactose-free and gluten-free and do not contain soya or nuts – making them safe for people with allergies. Vegan versions are also available.