Navigating the maze of nutritional supplements can feel overwhelming, right? Every product seems to promise the moon and stars. Enter the Shakeology Shake, which is really noticeable in this crowded market. Its ingredient list reads like a superstar lineup of superfoods. But let’s be real – the true test of any product is how it tastes and how it vibes with us personally. So, come along as I spill the beans on my journey with this shake, the good and the not-so-good, aiming to give folks like you a genuine feel for what to expect.

Introduction to the Company

Introduced in 2009 by wellness aficionados, including Darin Olien, CEO and co-founder of Beachbody, Shakeology is a nutritional shake. Beachbody, a purveyor of workout videos, supplements, and health programs, employs a multilevel marketing (MLM) strategy. This involves over 340,000 “coaches” marketing their products, predominantly through social media channels.

Shakeology At a Glance

A “superfood-infused nutrition shake” with whey and pea protein, vitamins, herbs, antioxidants, probiotics, and digestive enzymes is what Shakeology bills itself as. It promises to support weight loss, reduce cravings for processed foods, boost energy, and support digestive health.

Shakeology Nutrition and Key Ingredients

According to the label, Shakeology contains over 70 healthful ingredients from around the world, including superfruits, antioxidants, greens, phytonutrients, 9 adaptogen herbs, a blend of pre- and probiotics, as well as digestive enzymes and power proteins. Let’s examine its nutritional composition.

Calories

Monitoring your total calorie consumption is essential when trying to follow a balanced diet. You can unknowingly consume more calories if you don’t keep track, which could result in weight gain. With regards to Shakeology, one scoop of this protein powder has 160 calories. If you’re not strictly following a ketogenic, low-calorie, or vegan diet, this is reasonable. This smoothie, though, can derail your diet if you’re following a strict schedule. So, if you’re following a diet like this and utilizing Shakeology as a meal substitute, you should limit your intake of high-calorie foods and increase your intake of low-calorie foods.

Main Macros

When counting calories, always keep in mind that your total caloric intake is tied to the proportions of your main macronutrients. So, balancing your macros is essential when aiming for a well-rounded diet. Let’s explore this protein powder’s main macros in detail:

Carbs

According to the label, this smoothie has 7 grams of sugar and 18 grams of carbohydrates. This might be a little high for those aiming to eat a balanced diet. This amount of sugar and carbohydrates may result in a rise in blood sugar, which can result in weight gain. Therefore, if you intend to substitute this drink for a meal, you should minimize extra sugars and carbohydrates.

Consider combining it with low-carb sides like cauliflower mash, grilled avocado, Keto mac cheese, or Brussels sprouts chips. As an alternative, you might want to consider different meal replacements with fewer sugars and carbohydrates. However, the shake’s 6g of fiber, which is beneficial for digestion, is a plus. Actually, consuming a diet rich in fiber can help your digestive system. [1]

Fat

This shake has 2.5g of fat, of which 1g is saturated, 1g is polyunsaturated, and 0.5g is monounsaturated. For a balanced diet, this seems like a decent serving size. In fact, you might think about including some healthy fats in your shake, such as fatty fish, chia seeds, dark chocolate, eggs, or avocado. These may have a lot to offer in terms of boosting metabolic and cardiac health. [2]

Proteins

Protein comes last but certainly not least. 17g of protein is present in this shake. That, in my opinion, is really good news for anyone trying to increase their protein intake. In fact, you might want to serve this drink together with a protein-packed side dish like a white bean salad, a high protein Mexican bean salad, or an edamame mango salad.

Key Ingredients

Let’s explore Shakeology’s main key ingredients so that you can make an informed decision.

Protein Blend

Based on the labeling, the protein blend found in the Shakeology is a thoughtfully crafted combination of Whey, Pea, Flax and Quinoa, which may build lean muscle and reduce cravings. In fact, adding nutritious proteins like Quinoa or pea beneficials to overall health as these contain a high amount of essential fatty acids. [3]

Superfruits /Antioxidant Blends

Besides protein, this shake has a variety of super fruits /antioxidants, like:

• Camu
• Acerola Cherry
• Blueberry
• Bilberry
• Lycium Berry (Goji Berry)
• Luo Han Guo
• Pomegranate
• Rose Hips
• Vitamins A, C, E

Antioxidants found in these superfruits protect against free radical damage and may support a strong immune system. For instance, the superfruit blend in this smoothie includes Acerola Cherry, a potent source of vitamin C and polyphenols known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Super Green/ Phytonutrients Blend

With Chlorella, Spinach, Kale, Matcha, and Green Tea, this meal replacement shake boasts a blend of super greens and phytonutrients. The health advantages of each of these greens are well known. For example, adding Matcha and Green Tea may help you manage your weight, while Chlorella and Spinach are rich in heart-healthy fats and fiber and offer minerals that can help control your blood pressure.

Adaptogen Blend

The meal replacement shake from Shakeology includes adaptogens in addition to supergreens. Ashwagandha, Astragalus, Cordyceps, Maca, Maitake, Reishi, Schisandra, and Chaga are some of the key ingredients. All of these have been proven to support a better lifestyle, despite the fact that some of them may sound unusual. For instance, maca root possesses antioxidant qualities and is proven to improve reproductive health. Ashwagandha can help reduce stress and anxiety in the interim. [4]

Prebiotics, Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes

Lastly, to boost your digestive health, this shake has important prebiotic, probiotic and digestive enzymes per serving such as:

• Yacon Root
• Chicory Root
• Bacillus coagulans
• Amylase
• Cellulase
• Lactase
• Glucoamylase
• Alpha-Galactosidase
• Invertase.

Available Flavor Options

Currently, the Shakeology Protein Shake comes in ten flavors:

• Peppermint Mocha Plant-Based Vegan
• Cookies Creamy Plant-Based Vegan
• Chocolate Whey
• Chocolate Plant-Based Vegan
• Vanilla Whey
• Vanilla Plant-Based Vegan
• Caffé Latte Whey
• Caffé Latte Plant-Based Vegan
• Strawberry Whey
• Tropical Strawberry Plant-Based Vegan

My Shakeology Meal Replacement Chocolate Whey Shake Experience Story

I was hopeful when I initially learned about the Shakeology Chocolate Whey Meal Replacement Shake. I had heard a lot about its dietary advantages and how it is filled with vital components for a health boost. So I made the decision to jump right in and try it.

I took a drink and was greeted with a peculiar flavor that, to be honest, didn’t sit well with my palate. Although I had anticipated a robust chocolate flavor, there was a strong flavor that I was unable to identify. I searched Pinterest and other websites for recipes, hoping to balance or compliment that powerful flavor in an effort to make the most of my purchase.

I experimented with numerous combinations, ranging from adding fruits and nuts to experimenting with various additives like almond milk and even spices. But each time, that distinct taste was still detectable and resisted being covered up.

To be honest, after ingesting the shake, I did experience an increase in energy and a feeling of fullness, which speaks much about its nutrient value. It’s likely that some people will enjoy the flavor straight away or just after getting used to it. It was still difficult for me, though.

In conclusion, even while I like the Shakeology Chocolate Whey Shake’s health advantages, I’ve had trouble with the flavor. I’m still searching for the ideal recipe that could perhaps make it more tolerable for me. It’s a range of emotions until then.

How to Use It?

Gently shake the bag to loosen compressed powder then combine one level scoop (42 g) of Shakeology powder with 8 to 12 fl oz cold water or beverage (milk, almond milk, rice milk, juice, etc.) and ice in a blender. Blend until creamy for a frosty shake. Best consumed within 30 minutes.

Who Should Buy?

• Individuals who want to add more proteins to their diet.
• Based on the website this shake is good for those who want to increase their antioxidants.

Who Shouldn’t Buy?

• It is best to stay away from buying Shakeology if you have known allergies or sensitivities to any of its constituents.
• Before using Shakeology or any new dietary supplement, those with underlying medical disorders, women who are pregnant or nursing, or people who are taking medication should speak with their doctor.
• People who are currently following a low carb diet as this shake contains a high amount of carbs with sugar.

Possible Benefits

• May support digestive health as this shake contains a decent amount of fiber, pre and probiotics and digestive enzymes.
• Possible helps to increase protein uptake as this shake comes with a high amount of protein.

Potential Downsides and Considerations

• Based on product labeling, this shake is manufactured in a plant that also processes egg, soy, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nut, peanut, and wheat ingredients, possibly induces allergic reactions in some.
• As I mentioned before, this nutritional shake has a high amount of carbs and sugar, which possibly induces blood sugar levels in some.
• This meal replacement shake contains probiotics and a high amount of fiber, which may induce stomach upset in some.

Price and Buying Options

A 1-month supply (30 servings) of Shakeology will set you back $129.95. The ordering process is easy whether you prefer to purchase from the official Shakeology website or Amazon.

List of Other Products by Shakeology

Shakeology is primarily known for its meal replacement shakes, but it’s a product line from the company Beachbody. Beachbody offers a wide range of fitness, nutrition, and weight loss products.

Fitness Programs: Beachbody has a variety of home workout programs catering to different fitness levels and goals. Some of the most popular ones include P90X, Insanity, 21 Day Fix, and 80 Day Obsession.

Beachbody On Demand: This is a streaming service that provides access to hundreds of Beachbody’s workouts.

Nutrition Programs: Apart from Shakeology, Beachbody has other nutrition products and programs, such as:

• Beachbars: Protein bars in various flavors.
• Performance Line: This includes pre-workout energy (Energize), post-workout recovery (Recover), and other supplements designed to enhance workout performance and recovery.
• Ultimate Portion Fix: A nutrition program that focuses on portion control.
• 2B Mindset: A program that focuses on positive nutrition habits without strict dieting.

Gear and Apparel: Beachbody offers fitness-related gear and clothing, from resistance bands and weights to branded apparel.

Supplements: Besides Shakeology and the Performance line, Beachbody sometimes offers other supplements to support different health and fitness goals.

FAQs

Does Shakeology help with weight loss?

While it is not a weight loss shake, it may support weight loss due to its balanced blend of nutrients and potential to reduce calorie intake.

Can Shakeology be used as a meal replacement?

Based on a healthline report, Shakeology shakes do not contain enough calories to be used as a meal replacement.

When should I drink Shakeology?

According to Beachbody, you can enjoy Shakeology shakes as part of a meal, as a snack between meals, or just before a meal.

Can you drink two Shakeology shakes per day?

It is likely safe to drink two Shakeology shakes per day. However, keep in mind that the shakes aren’t cheap. They’re also not as nutritious as snacks made from whole food ingredients.

Final Thoughts

The Shake from Shakeology is undoubtedly a nutritious powerhouse. This can be a good choice if you’re looking for anything that has several positive health effects. But since taste is a personal matter, what one person finds overpowering, another may find exquisite. If flavor is extremely important to you, I’d advise starting with a smaller pack to test it out or looking at methods to include it in recipes that suit your palate.

Reference:

1. Rao, T. P., Quartarone, G. (2019). Role of guar fiber in improving digestive health and function. Nutrition, 59, 158-169. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nut.2018.07.109
2. Forouhi, N. G., Krauss, R. M., Taubes, G., Willett, W. (2018). Dietary fat and cardiometabolic health: evidence, controversies, and consensus for guidance. Bmj, 361. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.k2139
3. Filho, A. M. M., Pirozi, M. R., Borges, J. T. D. S., Pinheiro Sant’Ana, H. M., Chaves, J. B. P., Coimbra, J. S. D. R. (2017). Quinoa: Nutritional, functional, and antinutritional aspects. Critical reviews in food science and nutrition, 57(8), 1618-1630. https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2014.1001811
4. Pratte, M. A., Nanavati, K. B., Young, V., Morley, C. P. (2014). An alternative treatment for anxiety: a systematic review of human trial results reported for the Ayurvedic herb ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 20(12), 901-908. https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2014.0177