In an attempt to get fit, people go to extremes – fasting, skipping meals altogether, punishing exercise regimes, and diets that are fit only for a bird. What many do not realize is that the amount you eat is rarely the problem; what matters is what you eat. The macro and micronutrients you put into your body, to a great extent, influence the rate at which your body loses weight. This means that you have to put a little more thought and effort into the meals you make for yourself. This also means choosing organic and fresh ingredients, taking the time to plan and cook your meals, and ensuring that you time your meals, too. Now, isn’t just the thought of putting in all that struggle tiring? In more cases than not, it is impossible to know which food is rich in what nutrient, which means you would have to spend additional time trawling through the internet or you would have to meet with a dietician. What if there was an easier way?
Whether it be losing weight, preserving muscle mass, or just staying fit, a meal replacement shake could work for you. These shakes are designed to provide you with all the essential nutrients without you bending over backward. The maximum effort you have to put in here is to scoop the powder into a blender or tumbler. These shakes came about as aids to support weight loss attempts and also to fill in possible nutritional gaps your diet may have. However, not all such shakes are the same. Some brands simply put together impressive-sounding ingredients in random dosages, hoping that smart marketing could help the product fly. If you are serious about your health, replacing a meal with a shake should do more good than harm, which is why the choice of product is important.
Meal replacement shakes should be able to fill nutritional gaps, nutritionally replace a meal, curb appetite and sugar cravings, support weight loss efforts and preserve and promote lean muscle growth, and should be easy on the taste buds. If you are tired of trawling through the internet looking for the perfect addition to your diet plan, we may be able to help. We compared three popular meal replacement shake brands. By the end of this guide, you should be able to choose one that fits you or at least have a clearer idea of what it is that you are looking for.
Ka’Chava, Lyfe Fuel & PhenQ Meal Shakes: A Brief Introduction
Before we begin, you should understand that meal replacements and protein shakes are not synonymous. While meal replacement shakes contain more protein as compared to green juices or pre- or post-workout products, they are not exclusively built to increase your protein intake. Meal replacement powders offer a whole range of nutrients and provide more health benefits compared to protein shakes. If you already have a protein powder in your everyday diet plan, you may have to choose a meal replacement shake that works with the protein shake.
#3 – Ka’Chava
- Ka’Chava is a meal replacement powder that is 100% plant-based.
- This vegan-friendly, gluten-free, soy-free, and dairy-free meal replacement powder is made from a combination of more than 85 superfood ingredients that provide your body with maximum nutrition without calories.
- Ka’Chava is available in 5 flavors – coconut acai, matcha, vanilla, chocolate, and chai, so you can pick the flavor that most appeals to you.
- Ka’Chava prides itself on using organic ingredients from sustainable sources so that you do not have to worry about the integrity of the product before you buy.
- The product has been tested by third parties and is designed to support the brain, muscle, skin, hair, and cardiovascular health.
#2 – Lyfe Fuel Daily Essentials Shake
Lyfe Fuel is a wellness brand that promotes a number of products like protein bars, natural performance enhancers, and wellness boosts.
- The Lyfe Fuel Daily Essentials Shake uses a combination of plant-based protein, whole food ingredients, probiotics, and digestive enzymes to ensure all-round nutrition and support for your body.
- Available in vanilla and chocolate flavor options, Lyfe Fuel attempts to make nutrition convenient and tasty.
- The principle followed here is that with the right metabolic boost, all biological systems and processes in the body correct themselves, leading to fewer health issues and easier function.
- With Lyfe Fuel, it should be easier to fill in those nutritional gaps and also reclaim health.
#1 – PhenQ Complete Meal Shake
The PhenQ brand was developed as an alternative to the phentermine obsession that took the nation by force a few decades ago. Dedicated to natural, safe, and sustainable weight loss, PhenQ consists of three products –
- The PhenQ Weight Loss Pill
- PhenQ PM, and
- The PhenQ Complete Meal Shake.
Although the shake works a lot better when coupled with the weight loss pills, it still does its job as a meal replacement outside the program.
- With the intent to support weight loss efforts, PhenQ Complete Meal Shake supports your attempts to lose weight, curb appetite, boost energy production, and reduce anxiety.
- Available in 3 flavors – chocolate brownie, vanilla ice cream, and strawberry and cream, PhenQ is formulated to work with the body to activate and maintain its natural fat-burning abilities while keeping your body sated and energized throughout the day.
Learn more how you can Trim Calories, Not Muscles with PhenQ’s Shake Power!
All three brands have to be reconstituted with water, milk, or milk alternatives. It is advised that only one meal be replaced per day. Replacing more than one meal with a meal replacement shake could lead to your body going into a calorie deficit, which, in the long run, works counterproductively for weight loss and muscle preservation.
What Health Benefits Can You Expect from These Meal Replacement Shakes?
Considering that all three brands attempt to provide you with a nutritionally complete meal, you should see some overlap when it comes to the benefits each promises to deliver. Whether these claims can be fulfilled or not depends on the formulae each shake uses – which we shall take a look at in a bit. Here are the results you can expect from each brand, as mentioned on their official website.
| Ka’Chava Superfood | Lyfe Fuel Daily Essentials Shake | PhenQ Complete Meal Shake |
|---|---|---|
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The Natural Ingredients
Each meal replacement powder adopts a formula to support the claims that are made above. While Ka’Chava and Lyfe Fuel aim at overall health and well-being, PhenQ is designed to support weight loss and help the body produce more energy when you do not have calories to spare. This difference can be seen in the ingredients used by the brands.
The Ka’Chava Formula
– 240 Kcals, 24 grams of carbs, 4.5 g of saturated fat, 6 grams of dietary fiber, 6 grams of sugar, and 25 grams of protein
This vegan meal replacement has included a whopping number of ingredients and nutrients. While some would find this impressive, others may comment that the formula is busy. Truth be told, the greater the number of ingredients, the greater the risk of allergies or interactions. Each serving of the shake would provide you with essential vitamins A, C, D, E, and the B complex range, and minerals like calcium, iron, phosphorus, iodine, magnesium, zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, chromium, molybdenum, chloride, sodium, and potassium. Ka’Chava manages its long list of components by dividing them into proprietary blends or groups based on the properties or benefits of the ingredients. The groups are as follows.
Plant-Based Protein Blend, 29.25 g
Ka’Chava uses plant proteins to bolster the shake. The use of plant proteins also helps to maintain healthy blood sugar levels and keep you feeling sated for longer. If you are interested in lean muscle building, the inclusion of such proteins would also help with protein synthesis for muscle growth. Here, you will find Sacha Inchi protein, yellow pea protein, whole grain brown rice, amaranth, and quinoa.
Omega EFA / Fiber Blend, 11.12 g
Fiber from Chia seeds, flaxseeds, whole grain oats, and acacia gum is rich in omega-3 healthy fats. These fats help with:
- Collagen production
- Maintain cell membrane integrity,
- And promote gut, cardiovascular, and brain health.
Antioxidant / Super-Fruit Blend, 5.1 g
Free radicals cause a lot more damage than we give them credit for and are responsible for a number of chronic issues that develop in the body over time. Antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables help to neutralize oxidative stress and help the body function optimally. This group includes coconut flower nectar, acai berry, camu camu berry, blueberry, tart cherry, blackberry, strawberry, maqui berry, and raspberry.
Adaptogen Blend, 1020 mg
Adaptogens help the body adjust to physical and mental stress. This blend includes herbs like maca root, shitake mushroom, maitake mushroom, reishi mushroom, ginger,and cordyceps mushrooms.
Super-Greens / Vegetable Blend, 500 mg
With inclusions like beetroot, chlorella, moringa, kale, broccoli, parsley, celery, cauliflower, spinach, brussels sprouts, asparagus, green pepper, garlic, carrot, cucumber, cabbage, green onion, tomato and green tea (in the match tea flavor only), Ka’Chava aims to fortify the shake with as many healthy vegetables as possible. This increases the nutritional value of the shake and also takes care of antioxidation, fiber intake, and mineral sustenance.
Probiotic / Prebiotic Blend, 50 mg
Probiotic bacteria like Lactobacillus Rhamnosus and Acidophilus can help to maintain gastrointestinal integrity and can also help with correcting slight gastric issues like bloating, gas, or irregular bowel movements.
Inulin added to this formula is a dietary fiber that the stomach cannot digest, so it moves to the intestines, where it feeds and provides nutrition to the beneficial bacteria that reside there.
Digestive Enzyme Blend, 50 mg
Enzymes in the stomach ensure the optimal breakdown of food and nutrient absorption. The shake includes amylase, protease, cellulose, lactase, and lipase.
The Lyfe Fuel Formula
– 110 calories, 6 grams of carbs, 2 grams of total fat, 1 gram of dietary fiber, 3 grams of sugar, and 18 grams of protein.
Fortified with 27 essential vitamins and minerals, Lyfe Fuel does fit the bill for a stellar meal replacement shake. As compared to the Ka’Chava shakes, this formula is slightly less busy, with just over 50 ingredients. This product, too, is completely plant-based and even uses plant-based proteins to reinforce the product. You get a healthy helping of vitamins A, C, D, E, K, and the whole B group, plus minerals like calcium, phosphorus, iodine, magnesium, zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, chromium, molybdenum, chloride, choline, sodium, and potassium. Lyfe Fuel also includes OligoSMART® and isomaltulose for additional fiber to the mix. While most ingredients are grouped into proprietary blends, there are a few that have been left free-standing.
Metabolic & Weight Control Blend
For lean muscle mass building, hunger management, and stronger keratin production, Lyfe Fuel includes sprouted brown rice, yellow peas, tapioca fiber, and flaxseeds.
The Longevity Blend
The key to a healthy life is to reduce inflammation, neutralize free radical damage, and have strong cardiovascular health. To help with this, Lyfe Fuel includes pomegranate seeds, grape seeds, and Coenzyme Q10, which also helps with fertility.
Super Berry Blend
For a metabolic rate boost, regeneration and production of cell membranes, and better skin from antioxidation, the shake includes berries like strawberry, raspberry, blueberry, sour cherry, elderberry, and cranberries.
Probiotic Blend 960 million CFUs + Digestive Enzyme Blend
In an attempt to promote healthy digestion and enhance gastrointestinal integrity, this shake includes beneficial bacteria like L.Acidophilus, L.Plantarum, L. Rhamnosus, B. Breve, B.Longum, and a combination of natural digestive enzymes such as Amylase, Cellulase, Lactase, Lipase, and Protease.
Organic Greens Blend
This group includes ingredients like alfalfa grass, wheat grass, barley grass, oat grass, broccoli, green cabbage, parsley, collard leaf, spirulina, chlorella, sea kelp, dulse, dandelion leaf, and broccoli sprouts. This blend of components helps with immune response and blood glucose control and alkalizes the body.
The PhenQ Formula
– 180 calories, 21 grams of carbs, 3.5 grams of healthy fats, 4 grams of dietary fiber, 2 grams of sugar, and 16 grams of protein.
Unfortunately, PhenQ uses both plant proteins and whey proteins, which makes the product unsuitable for vegans. But that being said, this is the only meal replacement shake that caters solely to weight loss and fat burning. If getting a handle on your calorie intake and fueling your next workout session is your goal, this is the product for you. Unlike the other meal replacement shakes, this one sticks to a nutrient profile that supports your efforts to lose weight, like vitamins A, C, D, E, K, and the complete B complex and sodium, which makes up the Vegetarian Micronutrient Blend.
Also, PhenQ does not fiddle about with proprietary blends; it individually mentions each ingredient and the reason for its addition to the meal replacement powder.
Gluten-Free Oat Flour
Rich in complex carbohydrates, oat flour takes time to move through the digestive system. This helps to keep hunger at bay, improve digestion, and also to keep your blood sugar levels in check. This also helps to feed the good gut bacteria.
Carb10®
A registered pea starch extract, Carb10, can keep blood glucose levels stable by absorbing complex carbs. The starch also improves digestive and gut health.
Whey Protein Concentrate
Rich in nine essential amino acids but low in lactose levels, whey protein is the protein choice for many who wish to support lean muscle growth and preservation. This especially helps when you are on a calorie-deficit diet and helps the body to continue protein synthesis. The amino acids in whey protein also enhance muscle recovery after physical activity.
Flax Seed Powder, as discussed above.
Digezyme™ Enzyme Complex.
A trademarked combination of 5 digestive enzymes, namely alpha-amylase, protease, lipase, cellulase, and lactase, this component ensures that the shake and the food you consume are properly processed and used by the body. This helps the body absorb the essential nutrients as well.
Where Can You Buy These Healthy Meal Replacements?
Before you purchase any meal replacement product, it would be wise to speak to your physician or dietician. As healthy as these shakes may be, there is always a risk of allergies or drug interactions. Seeking professional advice is pertinent if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication for a pre-existing medical condition. Also, meal replacements are in no way to be used in place of solid food or whole foods. These shakes are designed to replace one meal only.
The best place to buy these meal replacement shakes is from the official websites, as this would ensure quality and also get you subscriptions, offers, and savings.
Buy Ka’Chava
For Ka’Chava, you have the choice of five flavors and you can choose any combination of flavors you wish.
- A one-time purchase of a bag would cost you $69.95. If you opt to purchase 2 bags at once, your shipping fee is waived.
- Ka’Chava also offers subscriptions where you would get a 10% discount on your purchases each time.
- In case you are unhappy with the product, you have a 30-day money-back guarantee where you will be refunded the full price of one bag of each flavor.
Buy Lyfe Fuel Daily Essentials Shakes
- A one-time purchase of Lyfe Fuel Daily Essentials Shakes would cost $70.00. You have the option of two flavors here. Shipping fees apply.
- Here, too, you have the option of a subscription where you save 14% on your purchases and also save on shipping fees.
- There is a money-back guarantee in place in case you are dissatisfied with the product, but the brand makes you run around to get the details. Do read the Terms and Conditions before you purchase the shake.
Buy PhenQ Complete Meal Shake
PhenQ Complete Meal Shake can be ordered from the Official PhenQ Website.
- Each bag would cost $64.99.
- To subscribe, you must make a minimum order of 2 bags, and you get 20% off and free shipping for as long as you are part of the program.
- An order of this meal replacement would get you instant access to the PhenQ E-Guides and Newsletter for free.
- In case the product is not what you expected, PhenQ offers you a 60-day money-back guarantee.
Which Is the Best Meal Replacement Shake among the 3; Ka’Chava, Lyfe Fuel, and PhenQ?
When looked at individually, Ka’Chava, Lyfe Fuel, and PhenQ are all exemplary shakes. They have been designed carefully, include impressive ingredients, provide essential nutrients, and come with positive customer reviews. This is why comparisons are important because the flaws in the products become apparent, and it becomes easier to see how one product may be the better choice.
First, let’s look at what’s good – Similarities
Many meal replacements use artificial ingredients and synthetic vitamins and minerals because they are easier to procure and cost a lot less. Ka’Chava, Lyfe Fuel, and PhenQ use natural ingredients and steer clear of synthetic ingredients. Natural flavors are used too, and artificial colors and additives are avoided too.
When it comes to nutritional value, you can get a full balanced meal’s worth from any of the three meal replacements. They all include sufficient protein to keep you sated till your next meal and keep you energized throughout the day. This is probably why many prefer to take the shake instead of lunch, as this is the meal that most struggle with. All of them can be a healthy meal substitute without you worrying about cravings and hunger pangs getting in the way. All three shakes are low-carb, too.
Taste is also not an issue. Customer reviews for the shakes mention a delicious taste and none of the grassy or gamey aftertastes that usually accompany green juices or protein powders.
Let’s now move on to how these shakes differ from each other – Differences
Ka’Chava and Lyfe Fuel provide plant-based nutrition, while PhenQ, unfortunately, only has the whey protein option. If you are looking for vegan shakes, you could easily choose Ka’Chava or Lyfe Fuel. There are a few others available, too, that are just as good.
An issue with Ka’Chava and Lyfe Fuel is the use of proprietary blends. The use of blends is generally looked down upon as blends are used to hide low dosages, additives, and fillers. Hence, it becomes impossible to check the actual amount of ingredients with proprietary blends and also to check if they have actually been included. PhenQ does not use blends at all.
While Ka’Chava and Lyfe Fuel have more of a blanket approach when it comes to the principal use of the product, PhenQ was specifically made for weight loss. While the former two could help marginally with weight management by cutting your calorie intake, but they do not actively aid your efforts to lose weight. PhenQ is a brand that is built to ease your weight loss journey. Even though the shake is part of a weight loss system, it could still be used on its own. PhenQ’s Meal Shake is designed to activate the AMPK response in the body, which actively targets excess body fat and burns it as an alternative source of energy. When it comes to losing weight and keeping a watch on your BMI, PhenQ Complete Meal Shake is the best way to go.
The make it easier for you to compare, here is a side-by-side recap of all the information we have seen so far.
| Ka’Chava Superfood | Lyfe Fuel Daily Essentials Shake | PhenQ Complete Meal Shake | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Designed to provide a nutritionally complete meal | Formulated to fill in the nutritional gaps | Created as a weight loss agent to increase fat burning and suppress appetite |
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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| Allergen Warnings | None | None | Whey |
| Flavors | 5 | 2 | 3 |
| Price | $69.95 | $70.00 | $64.99 |
| Refund Policy | 30-day money-back guarantee | Terms & conditions apply | 60-day money-back guarantee |
| Where to Buy? | Buy Ka’Chava Superfood from Amazon, Walmart, or from its Official Site. | Buy Lyfefuel Daily Essentials Shake from Amazon, GNC, Walmart, or its Official Site. | Buy PhenQ Complete Meal Shake from its exclusive Official Website, click here! |
Summary & Verdict
Meal replacement shakes are an excellent way to get a healthy meal conveniently, provided that you choose a brand that is worth the investment. We compared three brands to see if they were worth the hype – Ka’Chava, Lyfe Fuel, and PhenQ. While the three shakes were found to be robust products, there were a few issues, like proprietary blends with the Ka’Chava and Lyfe Fuel shakes. That aside, they are good plant-based meal replacement shakes that work.
However, PhenQ Complete Meal Shake was designed exclusively to support weight loss. If cutting calories, fat-burning, and preserving muscle mass are what concern you the most, then PhenQ is the best meal replacement shake we recommend.
Your Ultimate Calorie Cutter and Muscle Preserver, click here to Order PhenQ Complete Meal Shake from its official source.
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