Liquid Meal Replacement Diet – Is it Good For Weight Loss?

These days, liquid meal replacement diets are a fad among weight-conscious people. However, not many people know how these diet plans work and if they are an effective weight loss method. As the term suggests, a liquid meal replacement diet involves replacing meals with a liquid. In effect, this diet does away with solid foods and consists mainly of soups or shakes.

This diet aims to supply all the essential vitamins and minerals as well as a predetermined number of calories to achieve optimum health. It is generally marketed as a healthy and convenient way to lose weight.

Liquid diets or meal replacement plans are generally categorized into two types: low calorie and commercial liquid meal replacement diets. The low calorie liquid diet is a short-term weight loss plan designed for severely obese people who need to shed pounds quickly. It supplies around 500 to 800 calories per day, making it a very low calorie diet plan. The diet gradually progresses to include some solid foods. The more popular type of diet plan is the commercial liquid diet, in which the user replaces two regular daily meals with liquid meal replacements. But the user may still eat one or two meals consisting of real food and containing low fat and calories. As with the low calorie liquid diet, the commercial type is also designed as a quick weight loss method.

Is a it an ideal way to achieve a slimmer body and healthier weight? The idea behind this weight loss program is promising, and it can be effective as long as it is used under the supervision of a medical specialist. An apparent advantage of taking this diet is that you can eat wherever you go, as the replacements meals come in the form of shakes.

Liquid diets are good for losing weight quickly, but they do not perform just as well in terms of long-term weight loss. There is a chance of weight gain relapse when you go back to eating real food after taking a liquid meal replacement diet. This happens when you return to unhealthy eating habits following the completion of the liquid diet. Studies show that people who use this diet plan regain up to 75 percent of lost weight within only three years. Some programs fail to educate people on how to select healthy foods, which is why liquid meal replacement diets do not work for everybody.

Another drawback of using a liquid meal replacement diet is it makes you prone to illnesses. It lowers your resistance because it lacks fiber and antioxidants, which can be found in real foods such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Looking for a quick yet permanent solution for your weight problem? You should decide wisely before using a liquid meal replacement diet. Remember, losing weight does not happen overnight. And nothing beats the good health provided by real foods that provide the nutrients your body needs for better functioning. When paired with intense workouts, a natural and healthy diet can gradually help you reduce weight.

Source by Susan Bell

via Paleohacks Paleo Cookbook Review http://paleohackscookbook.com/liquid-meal-replacement-diet-is-it-good-for-weight-loss-2/