Nourish Magazine

Nutrient density: It is the measure of the nutrient content of foods, expressed per reference amount, typically 100 kcal, 100 g, or per serving. 2 Most meal replacement products may deliver vitamins and minerals to make them nutrient dense. Meal replacements promote a high-quality diet by being nutrient-dense and having a low GI. When combined with resistance exercise, meal replacements can also help promote lean body mass to maintain or build lean muscle. Behavioral Changes 3 : Aside from the nutritional considerations, we should also look at how behavioral patterns formed by taking meal replacements influence weight management. Adopting them can bring about several positive changes in behavior, contributing to the overall success of weight loss or maintenance endeavors. Here are the key behavioral changes associated with incorporating meal replacements into one's diet. • Enhanced Convenience: Lack of time to prepare healthy meals is one of the biggest barriers to losing weight. Meal replacements make it easier to plan meals. With readily available and convenient solutions, individuals can easily adhere to their dietary goals without the stress of time-consuming meal planning & preparations. • Increased compliance: Sticking to a specific diet plan can be challenging, especially when tempted by unhealthy food choices. By replacing meals with nutritionally balanced options, individuals are less likely to give in to unhealthy choices, making it easier to stay on track with their weight management journey. • Regular eating pattern: Repetition and routine are key in a weight loss or weight maintenance journey. Eating at regular times throughout the day and avoiding long periods of time between each meal positively affect your energy level and hunger. • Accuracy of calorie estimation: Dietitians typically advise consuming a certain number of calories throughout the day, depending on your health goals. Meal replacements – when prepared as suggested – are an easy, precise way to keep track of how many calories you are consuming. • Quality of food consumed: Cutting back on calories can make it difficult to obtain the required nutrients. Meal replacements are often fortified vitamins, minerals, protein, and fiber, which help avoid a nutrient gap.

• Positively affects self-monitoring

• Recording dietary intake helps people become aware of their current food-related behaviors. Tracking meal replacements is easy, making self-awareness of target behaviors and outcomes easier.

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