I’ve been looking for the ideal meal replacement drink that meets all the criteria—taste, nutrition, and how long it truly keeps you full—that checks all the boxes. At that point, I learned about CTRL Meal Replacement, which says it can keep you satisfied for over three hours. Does it stand up to my expectations? To explore this answer, check out my comprehensive reviews on CTRL Meal Replacement. But before digging into detail, let’s discuss the brand first.
About the Brand
In 2015, Sundance Digiovanni, Skyler Johnson, and Glenn Delgado created CTRL Labs, a brand-new competitor in the meal replacement shake market. International superstars from the CTRL team, gaming world champions some of the best content creators in the game are all working towards a healthier mission.
Introduction to CTRL Meal Replacement
With its powdered drink mix, CTRL Meal Replacement provides a meal replacement that may improve your health and wellbeing while still tasting great and being convenient. Based on product labeling, this powdered based meal replacement shake is crafted with protein, healthy carbs, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals, MCT’s, digestive enzymes and pre-biotics, which you need in your day-to-day.
Summary
| CaloriesPer serving (100g) | 290 |
| Sugar | 7g |
| Carbs | 37g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| Protein | 23g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Superfoods | No |
| Vitamins & Minerals | Yes |
| Probiotics | No |
| Digestive Enzymes | Yes |
| Artificial Sweeteners | No |
| Controversial Ingredients | No |
CTRL Meal Replacement Shake Nutrition Key Ingredients
This powdered mix shake comes with 21 servings and each serving claims to keep you full for 3+ hours. Let’s break down its nutrition profile and key ingredients.
Calories
Based on the product labeling, when you blend this shake solely with water, each serving of the CTRL Meal Replacement Shake provides 290 calories. However, if you opt for almond milk or whole milk, the calorie count escalates to 351 and 410 respectively. These figures appear notably higher, which might pose challenges if you’re striving to manage your weight or maintain a well-rounded diet. The intake of such a substantial calorie quantity could potentially trigger weight gain. Therefore, if your intention is to use this shake as a meal substitute, it becomes imperative to eliminate calorie-dense foods from your diet and diligently monitor your calorie consumption.
Main macros
After the total amount of calories, let’s see its macronutrient amount.
Carbs
The components you choose to add to this drink will largely determine the total amount of carbohydrates. In order to give you an idea, each serving of the CTRL Meal Replacement Shake has 37g of carbohydrates, including 7g of sugar. But if you choose almond milk or whole milk instead, the carbohydrate count rises to 39g and 51g, with 7g and 25g of sugars, respectively. When compared to other meal replacement shakes available, that is a significant increase and requires some serious thought.
Here’s something to keep in mind: If you’re trying to follow a low-carb diet, consuming large amounts of sugar and carbohydrates may not be the best choice. Future issues, including obesity, weight gain, and high blood pressure could result from it. On a more positive side, this smoothie has a healthy 5g of prebiotic fiber, which is fantastic for your digestive system. Additionally, if you choose to combine it with almond or whole milk, the resulting mixture will include 6g and 5g of prebiotic fiber, respectively.
Fat
Once blended with water, this meal substitute delivers 6g of total fat per scoop, which includes 2g of saturated fat. However, if you opt for almond milk or whole milk as an alternative, the total fat content increases to 11g and 6g, respectively, with 2g of saturated fat. These figures appear reasonable, especially for individuals aiming to moderate their fat consumption. Furthermore, as you enjoy this shake, consider pairing it with healthful fat-rich side dishes such as Mixed Nuts and Seeds or roasted Brussels sprouts with almonds.
Protein
Anyone looking to up their protein consumption will find the 23g of protein in this drink to be a good starting point. Additionally, the protein amount increases to 25g and 35g, respectively, if you elect to blend this smoothie with almond or whole milk. Although many people may find these figures enticing, it’s crucial to remember that consuming excessive amounts of protein may not be the healthiest course of action. In fact, there has been research suggesting that eating too much protein may have some negative effects and even be harmful to your health.[1] In order to ensure that you are getting enough protein each day while enjoying this smoothie, it is a good idea to keep track of your intake.
Key Ingredients
To understand their nutritional value and benefits, let’s dive into the CTRL Meal Replacement Shake and its key ingredients.
Protein Blends
The protein blend in the CTRL Meal Replacement Shake is scientifically adjusted, offering whey protein concentrate, as can be seen by carefully reading the label. This nutritious whey protein is a high protein source, which may be great for muscle repair and growth. In fact, it was reported that this animal based protein may boost your immune system, stabilize blood sugar levels and assist in digestion.
Prebiotic Fiber and Digestive Enzymes
This smoothie has a combination of soluble corn fiber, digestive enzymes including protease and amylase, and fiber, all of which have significant health advantages. Consider soluble corn fiber, which acts as a prebiotic and has the ability to improve your digestive health. In fact, a study involving 20 healthy males found that a daily diet of 21 grams of soluble maize fiber resulted in higher concentrations of a variety of good gut bacterial strains. The additional digestive enzymes are also important since they aid in the digestion process. Take amylase as an example, which works to break down carbohydrates and starches, while Protease concentrates on breaking down proteins, making digestion easier and more efficient.
Vitamins Minerals
Besides digestive enzyme and prebiotic fiber blend, this meal replacement shake has more than 20 different key micronutrients, including Zinc Oxide, dl-alpha Tocopherol Acetate, Cholecalciferol, Niacinamide, Manganese Gluconate, Selenomethionine, Beta Carotene, Copper Gluconate, d-calcium Pantothenate, d-biotin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Thiamine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Chromium Picolinate, Cyanocobalamin, Folic Acid, which are essential to your body and may cover up nutrition deficiency.
Available Flavor Options
Currently, the CTRL Meal Replacement Shake comes in seven flavors:
- Cinnamon Toast
- Fruity Flakes
- Cocoa Crunch
- Birthday Cake
- Cookies N’ Cream
- Apple Smacks
- Peanut Butter Crunch
My CTRL Meal Replacement Shake Experience Story
My experience with the CTRL Meal Replacement Shake in Peanut Butter Crunch flavor was a mixed bag. I appreciated the flavor profile; it wasn’t overwhelmingly sweet, striking a good balance. However, I couldn’t help but notice that it didn’t quite capture the true essence of “Peanut Butter.”
Maybe my expectations were high as a peanut butter enthusiast expecting a daily fix. Or perhaps it’s because the taste of peanut butter was absent in the formulation. Although the package’s allergy warnings don’t indicate the presence of nut-related ingredients, the caution of shared processing with peanuts might explain the “Peanut butter crunch” mentioned.
Interestingly, the promised “crunch” was missing in action. The ingredient list mentioned “cereal pieces,” but I struggled to locate any in my mix. It’s possible that they become soggy after thorough water blending, sacrificing their crunchiness.
One notable point was the sweetness – a total of 7g of sugar, including 3g of “added sugar.” Some of this could be attributed to the cereal pieces. This sweetness level veered slightly too high for my taste, impacting the overall experience.
How to Use It?
The directions on the CTRL shake label suggest mixing two scoops (1 serving) of CTRL Meal Replacement with 12 to 16 ounces of water or beverage of choice. You can adjust how much liquid you add depending on the taste and consistency that you’d like.
Who Should Buy?
- Those who want to increase their protein intake.
- Those who want to add prebiotics and digestive enzymes into their diet.
Who Shouldn’t Buy?
- Those who are following a low carb diet.
- Those who have sensitivities to Milk, Soy, Wheat and Coconut. [2][3][4]
Possible Benefits
May support growth of muscle and muscle repair: This shake is crafted with BCAAs, whey protein and soybean oils, which are rich in high protein sources that may help you grow muscle and support muscle repair.
Possibly control appetite: This shake is formulated with MCT oil and supports a variety of benefits, including appetite control, day-to-day performance and nutrient absorption. [5]
May support digestion: This shake has prebiotic fiber and digestive enzymes that support your digestion.
Potential Downsides and Consideration
Besides possible benefits, the CTRL Meal Replacement Shake has several downsides, such as:
May not be ideal for a low carb diet: This shake has a high amount of calories, which may not be suitable for those who want to limit their calories or follow a low carb diet like keto or Atkins.
Contains Milk, Soy, Wheat and Coconut: Based on product labeling, this shake has Milk, Soy, Wheat and Coconut, which may generate sensitivity to some.
Price and Buying Options
You can buy 20 servings of CTRL Meal Replacement at just $52.99. Moreover, you can choose to Subscribe and save 10% or buy it during a promotion. The ordering process is simple; you can either directly order it from the CTRL website or Amazon.
List of Other Products by CTRL
Besides meal replacement shakes, CTRL offers protein cookies and protein bars. According to the company’s website, these protein supplements are made with nutritious protein which helps you to boost your protein intake.
FAQs
How do I store CTRL powder?
CTRL powder doesn’t need to be refrigerated; you can store it anywhere at room temperature. Just make sure you close the bag properly after use using the zip lock!
Are CTRL shakes vegan?
No, the company currently does not offer a vegan version of its shakes.
Are CTRL shakes good for me?
The company states that CTRL is more than good for you. They also state that they have worked with several dietary supplement industry professionals to create a formula that is not only easy to consume but healthy.
Can I track my order?
Yes, in the footer of the company’s website, click ‘Order Tracker’. By placing your email and order number, you can easily track your package every step of the way.
Final Thoughts
CTRL shakes have some good stuff going for them, especially if you’re too busy to whip up a meal. But let’s keep it real—the flavor and texture could use a little love. If they could make it taste more like actual peanut butter and sort out those crunchy bits, we might be talking next-level yumminess. And hey, a little less sugar wouldn’t hurt, either. But you know what? Feel free to mess around with how you make it—you might find a way to make it taste just right for you!
Reference:
- Nelson, M. T. Will Eating Too Much Protein Harm Your Health?.
- Lam, H. Y., Van Hoffen, E., Michelsen, A., Guikers, K., Van Der Tas, C. H. W., Bruijnzeel‐Koomen, C. A. F. M., Knulst, A. C. (2008). Cow’s milk allergy in adults is rare but severe: both casein and whey proteins are involved. Clinical Experimental Allergy, 38(6), 995-1002.
- Ballmer-Weber, B. K., Vieths, S. (2008). Soy allergy in perspective. Current opinion in allergy and clinical immunology, 8(3), 270-275.
- Inomata, N. (2009). Wheat allergy. Current opinion in allergy and clinical immunology, 9(3), 238-243.
- Rudkowska, I., Jones, P. J. H. (2007). Medium-chain and structured triglycerides: their role in weight control. Novel food ingredients for weight control, 305.