More and more women are using meal replacements as a way to help them lose weight.  But do they work?  Are they actually beneficial?  The three studies below show that meal replacements can be a very effective tool.

In the June 2007 Nutrition Journal, 96 women who lost weight over 1 year were studied.  Those who used meal replacements had more adequate essential nutrient intake than those who didn't use meal replacements.

In another study that took place over a year, meal replacements were compared to traditional food.  It was found that weight loss was more consistent and more likely to be maintained when meal replacements were used.  Nutrition Research Letter April 2001

The Journal of the American College of Nutrition, Vol 24, No. 5 showed that meals replacements were as effective as medication in maintaining weight loss.

Choose your meal replacements carefully and don't use them as a crutch.  You still need to eat a healthy diet.  But when used properly, know that they can be an effective means to lose weight.