There are currently so-called “liquid meals” on the market, which target people who do not have enough time to eat. So how healthy are these meal replacements?
Satisfying meals
To answer this question, the German Goods and Products Testing Authority explained that liquid meals are characterized by being satiating and providing the body with all essential nutrients. It provides between 400 and 515 calories, which is approximately the same amount as the main meal, and therefore it is not a snack at all.
The authority added that when a person is in a hurry, liquid meals are better than fast food such as curry sausages with French fries and mayonnaise, in terms of nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and proteins, and the total fat content is acceptable.
flaws
However, liquid diets have some drawbacks; Even if products do not have added sugar, they often contain short-chain carbohydrates that are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, leading to a sudden spike in blood sugar levels, which is especially problematic for people with diabetes.
When blood sugar levels drop again, one feels a strong desire to eat. Moreover, some liquid meals contain the sweetener sucralose, which is believed to stimulate appetite.
Another disadvantage of liquid meals is that they replace the need for chewing food, which is a very important process. As it helps to feel full for a longer period, and liquid meals may tempt a person to eat a larger amount of food than necessary.
In addition, liquid diets often contain high levels of protein, which represents a problem for people with kidney failure; As too much protein causes stress to the kidneys.