When to take it
Instead of breakfast or lunch; keep your other meals complete.
← All supplements
OtherModerate evidence
Meal replacement
Also known as: meal replacement shake, diet shake
A meal replacement is a powder for a drink that combines protein, carbohydrates, fats, fibre, vitamins and minerals in a defined calorie amount. Composition varies by manufacturer, so quality depends on the label.
What it is used for
- weight loss and maintenance when replacing one or two meals a day – moderate evidence (EFSA-approved claims)
- convenient balanced meal when short of time – weak evidence for health benefit
- better blood-sugar control with overweight – moderate evidence within programmes
Forms and how they differ
single-meal replacement
usually 200–400 kcal, with vitamins and minerals
total diet replacement
for short low-calorie programmes, ideally under supervision
ready-to-drink
convenient, often more sugar – check the label
Pairs well with
Water or milk as directed, vegetables and enough fluids during the day.
Do not combine / separate
Do not replace all meals long-term without supervision; watch for doubling vitamins with a multivitamin.
Watch out for
Not suitable in pregnancy, breastfeeding, for children or with eating disorders. With diabetes (risk of low blood sugar on medication), kidney or liver disease, or when taking medicines, consult your doctor.
Safety
Safe with normal use; do not exceed the label dose.
Practical tip
Choose a product with at least 15–20 g protein and some fibre per serving – it keeps you fuller.
Products containing Meal replacement 1
Meal replacement powderpowder
How to read the evidence rating
Strong evidenceModerate evidenceWeak evidenceNo evidence
Strong = several good human studies or official recommendations; moderate = promising but smaller studies; weak = few studies or mixed results; no evidence = claims not confirmed.
Combination check
Select the supplements you take and, if relevant, your medicines. We show what interferes, what needs a time gap and what to watch out for.
Check Meal replacement with othersWhich supplements do you actually need?
Fénix Methode picks them from your blood results and schedules when to take what – no needless purchases.
From the same group
AlfalfaNo evidenceAndrographisWeak evidenceAroniaWeak evidenceBarley grassWeak evidenceBee pollenWeak evidenceBeef organs (desiccated)Weak evidence
Important notice
This information is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist. We do not give medicine dosages. Supplements are no substitute for a varied diet; if pregnant, breastfeeding, ill or on medication, consult a doctor first.