Meal replacement shakes or smoothies are prepared to replace your breakfast, lunch or dinner.
They are full of nutrients and have fewer calories than we eat during a meal. These shakes are high in protein, they fill the stomach well and do not load the body with extra calories.
Some of these shakes come prepared in a can or bottle, while others come in a powdered form that can be mixed with milk or water.
On an average these shakes contain 200-400 calories, a good amount of protein, fibre and essential vitamins are also present in them.
Advantages of consuming meal replacement shakes
1.These smoothies are full of nutrients and are save time for those who have a busy schedule.
2.When trying to lose weight, these shakes are a good addition to your diet. They are very low in calories and good for health.
3.They have added fibre that keeps the stomach full for a longer duration. They are also good for digestion and prevent the body from bloating or constipation.
Recipes of meal replacement smoothies
The meal replacement smoothies help in boosting metabolism, and keeps your stomach full for a longer duration. Here are a few recipes of healthy smoothies made from fresh fruits, vegetables and nuts.
Assorted berries smoothie – Take one cup assorted frozen berry medley [strawberries, raspberries, blueberries], half cup baby spinach, a tablespoon of almond butter, 2 scoops vanilla protein powder, one tablespoon uncooked oatmeal and a cup of water. Add all the ingredients to a blender, blend until smooth, add a cup of water to reach the desired thickness of smoothie. Pour into a glass and enjoy your smoothie.
1. Banana rice smoothie
This smoothie is a perfect choice for breakfast or lunch. Take half cup mixed berries, one teaspoon coconut milk, one cup cooked rice, one teaspoon chia seeds and one banana. Mix all the ingredients in a blender for 30 to 40 seconds. Delicious healthy smoothie is ready to drink.
2. Spinach smoothie
It is the best vegetable smoothie for reducing weight. Take half cup shredded paneer, two tablespoon protein powder, one teaspoon lemon juice, few ice cubes, one bowl spinach, half cup water and one teaspoon honey. Mix all the ingredients in a blender for one minute. When this paste becomes thick, serve in a glass to drink.
3. Apple smoothie
This smoothie is rich in fibre, vitamin C and contains antioxidants as well. Its ingredients contain 2 tsp cashew butter, half cup soy milk, few ice cubes, one tsp chia seeds and one apple. Wash the apple and cut it into small pieces then put it in the blender. Add soy milk, cashew butter, chia seeds, ice cubes and blend it well. The paste should be thick. Now serve it in a glass and enjoy a healthy and tasty apple smoothie.
4. Pina colada
This vitamin packed smoothie is low in calories and rich in protein, fibre and healthy fats. Take half cup unsweetened light coconut milk, half cup diced pineapple, 1/4 frozen banana, 2 fresh basil leaves, half scoop plant based protein powder and water. Blend the ingredients well for 30 seconds, pour the paste in a glass, add water for perfect consistency and serve.