CHOOSING THE RIGHT MEAL REPLACEMENT

The meal replacements sold in pharmacies are designed as meal or snack substitutes, and are aimed at both people who are in good health and those who are not. It is important to choose the right product for you. Read on to discover how to choose the product that best meets your nutritional needs.

WHO SHOULD USE MEAL REPLACEMENTS?

Meal replacements can be an appealing option for individuals in good health, serving as an occasional meal substitute or a snack.

They are also advisable when faced with specific health challenges that hinder regular eating or require expediting the recovery process. For instance, meal replacements are recommended if you:

  • Experience difficulty consuming meals due to a diminished appetite.
  • Lack the ability to prepare your own meals.
  • Encounter problems with swallowing solid foods.
  • Need to adhere to a liquid diet before or after a medical procedure.

Meal replacements can serve as the sole source of nutrition for a few days. However, if considering their long-term use, it’s advisable to seek guidance from a nutritionist who can develop a customized eating plan tailored to your specific needs.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT PRODUCT

nutrient ratios may vary depending on the intended benefits, with some products being enriched to address particular needs.

While product compositions may differ from one manufacturer to another, most brands offer the following:

  • A regular (or original) product suitable for use as a meal replacement or snack for individuals in good health.
  • A high-protein product tailored to promote muscle health. This type of product is appropriate for those aiming to maintain muscle health or individuals in recovery.
  • A high-calorie product that delivers a significant calorie count in a compact volume. This option can be advantageous for individuals with reduced appetite, those seeking weight gain, or those requiring a restricted diet (in terms of liquid or volume) due to medical procedures.
  • A high-fiber product designed to support digestive regularity.
  • A diabetic-specific product featuring a blend of slow-digesting carbohydrates to assist in managing blood sugar levels.
  • A product specially formulated for children, considering their unique needs in terms of calories, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals.

Many meal replacement products are also available in gluten-free or lactose-free variants, catering to specific dietary preferences and restrictions.

NOT JUST SHAKES

Meal replacements are sold not just in the form of shakes or powders. They also come in fruit-flavoured drinks as well as bars and puddings.

They tend to be available in various flavours (chocolate, strawberry, vanilla, and others), and are generally sweet-tasting.

To mitigate the risk of dehydration, it’s important to encourage seniors to maintain adequate fluid intake, especially during periods of high heat, such as placing a readily accessible pitcher of water within their reach.

Additionally, if an older adult experiences episodes of vomiting or diarrhea, it’s crucial to promptly seek advice from their pharmacist or physician.

THE RIGHT QUANTITY

It is important to check the Nutrition Facts chart to see whether one serving is equivalent to a snack or whether it’s enough to replace a full meal. In general, it takes 250 to 300 calories to replace a meal, however this figure can vary from one person to another, depending on age and health.

RECOMMENDED SHELF LIFE

Meal replacements are typically safe to store at room temperature until they are ready to be consumed. However, it’s crucial to adhere to the best-before date specified on the packaging since these products contain ingredients that can deteriorate over time.

After opening the package, any meal replacements containing milk-based components, puddings, or powders mixed with milk are generally safe for two hours at room temperature or up to 24 hours when refrigerated. Powders, in their dry form, can be stored for several weeks. It’s essential to always follow the storage and usage instructions provided on the packaging.

A FEW TIPS

If you are physically able, it’s advisable to maintain a diet consisting of regular foods. While meal replacements offer balanced nutrition, they do not encompass all the natural nutrients found in whole foods. Additionally, the satisfaction derived from consuming a meal replacement may not be on par with a traditional meal.

However, meal replacements can be incorporated into your diet to enhance your nutritional intake. You can explore recipe ideas on the websites of meal replacement manufacturers for creative ways to blend them with foods.

To add variety to your diet, you might consider trying different products to discover your preferred flavors and diversify by exploring various types, such as puddings, shakes, drinks, and more.

In instances where you require a meal replacement as part of medical preparation or post-hospitalization, your pharmacist can guide you in selecting the product best suited to your specific needs.