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Cheap alternatives to Shakeology that you should consider

Busy people often don't have time to cook balanced meals, so meal replacement shakes are popular. Shakeology is one of the best known, and there are many Shakeology recipes online.

The catch is the price. Shakeology costs more per serving than most protein and meal replacement shakes, so many people look for cheaper options.

Let's take a closer look at some cheap alternatives to Shakeology.

Best Shakeology alternatives

Shakeology is sold as a nutrient-dense protein shake. Plenty of other shakes offer similar protein, vitamins and minerals for less money.

Prices and formulas change often, so check the current label and price per serving before you buy. Look at protein, calories, added sugar and fiber, and whether the product is a full meal replacement or just a protein shake.

Exanate

Exanate is marketed as a low-calorie, lower-cost shake. Check that the label lists enough protein and calories to replace a meal if that's how you plan to use it. It comes in several flavors, such as vanilla, chocolate and strawberry.

Ideal Shake

Ideal Shake usually costs much less per serving than Shakeology. Compare the sugar and protein per serving on the label, since formulas vary by flavor.

Vega one

Vega One is a plant-based shake made with pea protein, greens, vitamins and minerals, so it suits vegans. It includes fiber, which supports your digestion process. It is not the cheapest option on this list, but it typically costs less than Shakeology and is low in sugar.

Plenny Shake

Plenny Shake (from Jimmy Joy) is designed as a full meal replacement with protein, carbs, fats, vitamins and minerals, and it is usually one of the lower-cost options. It comes in several flavors.

310 shake

310 Shake is a lower-calorie protein shake. A shake can help you control portions and calories, but it does not cause weight loss on its own. It can fit into a plan for people seeking a healthier lifestyle.

Fit and Lean fat burning meal replacement:

Fit & Lean's shake is a protein meal replacement with added fruit powders and probiotics. Despite the name, no shake "burns fat" by itself. Any weight loss comes from eating fewer calories overall.

Met-Rx:

Met-Rx meal replacements are high in protein and are marketed for building lean muscle mass. They are also higher in calories than many shakes, so check the label if you are trying to lose weight. Some versions are fairly high in sodium.

Plant fusion complete meal:

PlantFusion Complete Meal uses protein from several plant sources. It is a reasonable option if you want a plant-based meal replacement at a lower price than Shakeology.

Premier protein RTD:

Premier Protein ready-to-drink shakes are high in protein and low in sugar. They are easy to carry to work, school or the gym. They are a protein shake rather than a complete meal, so pair one with fruit or vegetables if it replaces a meal.

Diet extreme

Diet Extreme is marketed as smooth, easy to mix and available in many flavors. Treat claims that "active ingredients" help you lose weight with caution, since supplements are not reviewed by the FDA for effectiveness before they are sold.

Orgain organic compound

If taste and texture matter most, Orgain's organic shakes are a popular choice. They are easy to mix, come in flavors such as vanilla bean and creamy chocolate fudge, and are typically cheaper than Shakeology.

Garden of Life Raw Vegan Meal Replacement.

Garden of Life Raw Organic Meal is a plant-based meal replacement made from organic ingredients. Some people dislike the taste. It is usually cheaper per serving than Shakeology.

Nature’s Bounty Optimal Solutions Protein Shake

This shake provides protein along with added probiotics and digestive enzymes. Marketing claims about skin and hair are not a reason to choose a protein shake. It comes in vanilla and chocolate flavors.

Four sigmatic

Looking for a high-protein snack? Four Sigmatic's plant-based protein provides 18g of proteins. per serving. Use it as a snack, not as a meal replacement.

FAQS

What do you mean by Shakeology?

Shakeology is a meal replacement shake sold as nutrition supplements to help with weight management and nutrition.

Why is Shakeology so expensive?

Shakeology is sold through a subscription and coaching (network marketing) system, and its blend of many superfood ingredients raises the cost.

How can you prepare a Shakeology smoothie?

Blend one scoop of Shakeology with water or milk, ice and fruit of your choice until smooth.

Is Shakeology beneficial for weight loss?

Shakeology can help you to lose weight if it replaces a higher-calorie meal and you eat fewer calories overall. A shake alone won't do it; your whole diet and activity level matter.

What is the best alternative to shakeology, as discussed above?

The best choice depends on your needs. Pick a full meal replacement if the shake replaces a meal, or a protein shake if it's a snack, and choose one low in added sugar.

Would these shakeology substitutes help me to lose weight?

They can help if they replace higher-calorie meals or snacks. None of them burns fat on its own. Protein powders, like other supplements, are not regulated by the FDA for safety before sale, so choose brands with third-party testing.

Conclusion:

Shakeology is a popular but pricey meal replacement shake. Many cheaper shakes offer similar protein and nutrients.

Compare labels for protein, calories, added sugar and fiber, and choose a product that fits how you'll use it. Pair any shake with a balanced diet and regular activity for lasting results.

Sources

• Protein, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
• Choosing a Safe & Successful Weight-loss Program, NIDDK