Meal Replacements: A Vital Tool in Weight Loss and Weight Management

It has become an epidemic: 97 million Americans are overweight or obese leading to increased risk of coronary heart disease, osteoarthritis, Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, stroke and many other conditions. Obesity is the 2nd leading cause of preventable death-the key word is that it is preventable. By increasing activity level and choosing a low-fat, high-fiber diet, one can fight this disabling condition. According to recent studies, the use of meal replacements can help in the fight against fat.

The concept behind meal replacements is to displace calories. For example, if a person normally has an intake of 700 calories for one meal and using a meal replacement of 400 calories instead, this individual has displaced or decreased their calorie intake for that meal by 300 calories. When this is done on a daily basis (with 1 or 2 meals being replaced) a person can successfully lose weight. To lose a pound a week, a person needs to cut out 500 calories per day and meal replacements may make this possible.

Meal replacements come in many different forms that offer variety and lessen the chances of becoming "burned out" on one food. There are shakes (both soy-based and milk-based), snack bars and even low-fat, low-calorie frozen dinners can be considered meal replacements if they contain less than 300 calories. Individuals can combine these frozen dinners with a large assortment of vegetables to increase the size of the meal and their feeling of satiety.

There are many benefits to meal replacements. In the recent years, there has been a lot of recipe modification research leading to some very tasty goods, whereas in the past, some of these products left a lot to be desired. Meal replacements are quick, effortless to prepare and convenient-no more wondering what to fix for dinner. With today's busy schedules, the ease of meal replacement can be a simple way to eat healthily and improve overall health.

According to several studies, the use of meal replacements has been shown to promote weight loss and maintenance. There is also evidence that this type of weight and diet management is also safe for obese patients with Type 2 diabetes (although you should consult with your physician before beginning any diet).