Everyone has had those mornings, afternoons, or evenings where you need something you can grab and easily eat on the go. You don’t always have time to have a nutritious sit-down meal and it is important to keep your metabolism on a schedule.
It is a good idea to keep meal replacers on hand for those moments when you do not have time to prepare a meal. Your body needs healthy fuel on those days and if you are in a hurry you may eat junk food or fast food if there is no other option. You want to make sure the meal replacement you pick fits certain parameters.
What You Want in Your Meal Replacers
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Whole Foods —
Check the ingredients and make sure they list whole foods like peanuts or eggs. The fewer preservatives the better.
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Calories —
The bar should be around 400 calories to be a true meal replacement. If under 300 try adding something like peanuts to go with it.
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Protein —
Most people need about 20g of protein a meal so look for bars in that range.
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Fiber —
Aim to find a bar with 5g of fiber if it is lower than 3g make sure to grab a fruit or vegetable to go with it.
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Sugar —
Look for a bar that has as little sugar as possible and avoid artificial sweeteners as they can upset a lot of people’s stomachs.
Best Meal Replacers
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Over Easy Breakfast Bars —
Calories: 220 Protein: 9g Fiber: 7g
This meal replacement bar is gluten and dairy-free. It is also made of only whole foods. The calories are a little low so you may want to grab a handful of almonds to add with this bar but it makes a great breakfast on the go.
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Chocolate Sea Salt RXBAR
Calories:210 Protein:12g Fiber:5g
This protein bar is gluten-free, contains no GMOs, and is Paleo-friendly. It does also come in a little low on calories but you can grab a yogurt and have a meal on the fly.
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Kind Crunchy Peanut Butter Protein Bar
Calories: 250 Protein: 12g Fiber: 6g
This Protein bar tastes great and kids enjoy them as well. This is a great choice when running late to practice or school.
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Orgain Organic Meal Replacement Shakes Iced Cafe Mocha
Calories: 250 Protein: 16g Fiber: 2g
This meal replacement shake is a great option, but you will want to make sure to also grab a fruit or vegetable though as it lacks a little in calories and fiber.
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Soylent Meal Replacement Shakes Cafe Chia
Calories: 400 Protein: 20g Fiber: 3g
This is a great vegan option for a meal replacement. If you enjoy chai you will love this shake.
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MET-Rx Original Whey Protein Meal Replacement Powder Extreme Chocolate
Calories: 250 Protein: 36g Fiber: 3g
This Meal replacement shake is great if you want the traditional protein shake.
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Elemental Superfood Seedbar Dark Chocolate + Peanut Butter
Calories: 230 Protein: 7g Fiber: 4g.
If you have a sweet tooth the combination of chocolate and peanut butter in the meal replacement bar would be great for you.
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Take Out Meal In A Bag Puff Snacks Pizza Party
Calories: 400 Protein: 21g Fiber: 3g
This choice is the perfect balance of taste and nutrition. This is one of many flavors and they are all excellent and vegan friendly.
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Pig out Pig-Less Pork Rinds
Calories: 460 Protein: 25g Fiber: 4g
This crunchy meal replacement is perfect when you want to feel like you are having a treat. These pork rinds are completely pig-free and vegan.
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Owyn Vegan Meal Replacement Shakes
Calories: 300 Protein: 20g Fiber: 3g
This vegan shake is very well balanced and a great grab-and-go choice. Pair it with fruit and it is the perfect lunch for a busy day.
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Labrada Whey Protein Meal Replacement Shake
Calories: 280 Protein: 40g Fiber: 5g
This Traditional whey protein shake is laking a little in calories so add a handful of fruit and you are ready to go.
Calories, Protein, and Fiber
Now that you know the best 10 meal replacement food ideas on the market, it is time for you to get shopping. Remember to keep an eye on your calories, protein, and fiber. You also need to keep in mind that you only want whole foods listed in the ingredients. Once you stock up on meal replacers you will never have to skip a meal again because you are in a rush.