Ka’Chava vs. Shakeology vs. Instant Knockout Complete: Nutritious shakes for life’s hustle!

Most of the food we consume today is made with artificial ingredients, processed goods, artificial flavors, extra salt and/or sugar, and packed full of preservatives. These are not the healthiest things you put into your body. As a matter of fact, unless you are in the habit of cooking all your meals yourself and from scratch, there is a fair chance that you are getting a hefty dose of these unhealthy compounds at all your meals. Because time is a more precious commodity nowadays, many prefer to opt for takeaways or frozen microwavable meals. You may save on time but you are also putting a cap on the essential nutrition that your body needs. Also, you may feel sated and no longer hungry, but without essential nutrients, you would be forcing your body to prioritize functions and store fat for a rainy day. Even though you save time and effort, the actual cost is health and well-being.

Time and convenience are not the only reasons why many opt for easy meals; there may also be a compulsion to count calories. In an effort to keep a check on how many calories one consumes, skipping meals or eating empty calories becomes a habit. Weight loss or weight management is good, but doing so at the cost of compromising healthy body function is foolish. You may lose the weight but most of it would be from loss of muscle protein or water. Your health would suffer eventually.

There are healthier ways to lose weight, save time, and keep body and soul together at the same time.

• If time is a concern, you could try bulk or batch cooking. This is the practice of planning, cooking, and freezing homemade meals for the week. This works for soups, roasts, steamed veggies, and even fruit. The process may take a few hours out of your weekend, but it saves you time, effort, and money over the week. At the end of a hectic workday, you would only need to defrost the meal while you are in the shower or grabbing a drink.
  
  
• Instead of opting for processed or packeted snacks, you could try dehydrated fruit, nuts, homemade popcorn, or even yogurt. These alternatives are so much healthier, rich in nutrients, and are also easier for weight loss efforts.
  
  
• Concentrate on breakfast. A healthy and heavy breakfast would ensure that you stay satiated for longer and also provide you with all the energy and nutrients that the body needs to function. Fruit and vegetable smoothies fortified with protein powder, flaxseeds, or chia seeds would provide you with a range of macro and micronutrients.
  
  
• While an organic meal is best, it is also not easily available. This is why many turn to meal replacements for all-rounded nutrition. Most brands fortify their respective products with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein, which have several health benefits.

While meal replacement shakes are a good idea, not all brands are made alike. Some are all hot air and fillers, while others are more propaganda than nutrition. Most meal replacement powders claim to replace one complete meal, but not all of them do a great job. The trick is to find the right one for your specific needs, whether it be nutrition, sustainable weight loss, or simply convenience. So, we compared three meal replacement brands to check which is the best of them – Ka’Chava, Shakeology, or Instant Knockout Complete.

A Brief Insight into These Meal Replacement Powders

Before we begin, you must understand that meal replacements are meant to provide you with one balanced meal a day. This means that ideally, you should be replacing just one meal and not more. While meal replacements are healthy sources of nutrition, they do not provide the body with everything it needs in a day and cannot completely replace solid food. They are mostly low-calorie, so if you replace more than one meal, there is a real chance that you deprive the body of essential nutrients and necessities.

#3. Ka’Chava

Ka’Chava is a vegan-friendly, dairy-free, gluten-free, and soy-free meal replacement brand that is formulated using only nutrients derived from plants. Available in 5 flavor profiles, Ka’Chava includes over 85 nutrient-rich ingredients that provide a range of health benefits. The brand is dedicated to creating light but sufficient nutrition for body and mind alike while still being low-calorie and tasting like dessert. Ka’Chava claims to:

• Help with digestive health and gut health
• Support the cardiovascular system
• Fortify the immune system
• Boost brain function, and
• Even provide healthy skin and hair.

Third-party tested and sustainably sourced, Ka’Chava aims to enhance your everyday diet habits by providing you with something that is easy, convenient, tasty, and nutritionally sound. The powder also includes prebiotics and probiotics.

Per serving you get 240 kcal, 25g of protein, 24g of carbs, 7g of fat, 6g of dietary fiber, and 6g of sugar.

#2. Shakeology

Shakeology is a branch of the fitness and lifestyle brand Team Beachbody. The official website of the brand is a portal to all things healthy and fit, like balanced meal plans, high protein powders and bars, collagen boosts, and even accessories. The brand promotes a way of life rather than products. Shakeology is a clinically tested shake that helps to:

• Support weight loss
• Curbs appetite
• Promotes muscle growth
• And also provides antioxidation.

Shakeology is a popular option as the brand offers both vegan and whey flavors which makes the brand all-inclusive. There are several flavor profiles available which creates another appeal. Shakeology claims to supply your body with all the essential nutrients without having you feel bloated or heavy.

Given that we will be considering the top-selling flavor, Vanilla Whey Shakeology, per serving you get 140 calories, 17g of protein, 15g of carbs, 2g of fat, 6g of dietary fiber, and 7g of sugar.

#1. Instant Knockout Complete

Instant Knockout Complete is not just a meal replacement powder, it is a complete weight loss and muscle mass-building system. This brand first gained fame when it launched its fat burner pills that arrested weight gain, and helped users lose weight while promoting muscle growth. The brand initially catered to seasoned athletes, but the popularity of the product pushed the supplement to the masses. To support Instant Knockout Cut – the fat burners, Instant Knockout Complete was formulated to support weight loss efforts while maintaining muscle mass. However, the meal replacement shake can be used on its own as well, with a balanced diet and exercise to promote weight management. Unlike the other meal replacement powders, Instant Knockout Complete was designed to promote weight loss efforts and fill nutritional gaps.

Per serving, you get 400 calories, 35g of protein, 35g of carbs, 13g of fat, 13g of dietary fiber, and 3g of sugar.

What Can You Expect from Each Meal Replacement Shake?

As expected, every brand would showcase their products’ ability to make your life better; also known as marketing—the more appealing a supplement, the better the sales. Because Ka’Chava, Shakeology, and Instant Knockout Complete are all meal replacements, you would see some degree of overlap in the benefits listed. However, whether these brands can actually deliver on these promises can only be seen when we look at the formulae.

None of these benefits would manifest overnight. If you are expecting to feel different, you have to be patient. Natural supplements gradually build up in the body and collaborate with its natural processes to restore, revitalize, and sustain peak performance. This takes time as your body slowly adjusts and then profits from the extra vitamins and minerals. The benefits will be there, but only after a while.

What Healthy Ingredients Will You Find?

Each brand would like to showcase its ingredient inclusions in the best possible way. While some meal replacements try to stuff their wares to the brim with beneficial components, other shakes tend to practice restraint by including only a few potent components. When it comes to Ka’Chava, Shakeology, and Instant Knockout Complete, you can see the aforementioned range here.

The Ka’Chava Formula

Ka’Chava makes it a point to appear user and planet-conscious. It makes a thorough mention of its components, the benefits of each component, and which body system the components work to benefit. A common factor among most of the ingredients used here is the fact that they are organic and sustainably sourced. There is also a very thorough inclusion of most vitamins and minerals – vitamins A, B complex, C, D, and E and minerals like calcium, iron, phosphorus, iodine, magnesium, zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, chromium, molybdenum, chloride, sodium, and potassium. Ka’Chava groups its inclusions into proprietary blends for convenience, and it is this practice that works against the meal shake (we shall mention the reason for this in a bit). The Ka’Chava formula is as follows:

Plant-Based Protein Blend, 29.25 g

The human body needs a lot of protein. It improves strength and muscle tone, stabilizes blood sugar, aids hormone manufacture, and even keeps you from feeling hungry. Since the meal replacement shake is vegan-friendly, the 25 grams of protein is solely supplied by plants like Sacha Inchi protein, yellow pea protein, whole grain brown rice protein, amaranth, and quinoa. These protein sources also double as dietary fiber sources.

Omega EFA/ Fiber Blend, 11.12 g

Fiber takes time to move through the digestive system, leaving you feeling full for longer. In addition to that, fiber also maintains gut integrity, maintains cell wall membranes, improves cardiovascular health, and enhances brain function. The fiber is sourced from chia seeds, flaxseeds, whole grain oats, and acacia gum. Fiber also helps with bowel movements, so an increase in fiber intake would help with bathroom breaks as well.

Antioxidant/Superfruit Blend, 5.1 g

Free radicals are generated by the body as a result of its natural processes, and these molecules can lead to oxidative stress, gradually damaging tissues and contributing to the development of long-term health issues. Fruits and vegetables are high in antioxidants, especially those that have vibrant colors. The fruits also act as sources of essential micronutrients, fiber, and beneficial compounds. This blend includes coconut flower nectar, acai berry, maqui berry, camu-camu berry, strawberry, tart cherry, blackberry, blueberry, and raspberry.

Adaptogen Blend, 1020 mg

Adaptogens are herbs and botanicals that help the body and mind to better respond to stress. These smart plants can sense the body’s needs and can accordingly calm the body down or lift spirits as needed. They can do so by lowering cortisol levels or by altering levels of hormones and neurotransmitters that affect disposition. Adaptogens used here are maca root, shitake mushroom, maitake mushroom, reishi mushroom, ginger, and cordyceps mushroom.

Super-Green/ Vegetable Blend, 500 mg

This blend includes nutrient-rich superfoods like beetroot, chlorella, moringa, kale, broccoli, matcha green tea, parsley, celery, cauliflower, spinach, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, green pepper, garlic, carrot, cucumber, cabbage, green onion, and tomato. This is the actual base of the meal replacement shake, as most of the micro and macronutrients come from this blend. Most of these veggies are often overlooked when grocery shopping and don’t feature very often on dinner plates as they may not taste the best. Ka’Chava ensures that you get your daily fill of these goodies without offending your taste buds.

Probiotic/Prebiotic Blend, 50 mg

While Ka’Chava has made an attempt to add pre and probiotic content, without knowing how much of each has been added, it would be difficult to comment on whether the inclusions are beneficial or otherwise. The only inclusion to represent prebiotics is inulin, which is derived from the konjac root. However, most types of fiber also act as prebiotics. You will also find Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus Acidophilus, both of which bolster gut health and well-being.

Digestive Enzymes Blend, 50 mg

Most nutrients are derived during the digestive process, and the digestive system works overly hard to do so. The addition of digestive enzymes like amylase, protease, cellulase, lactase, and lipase would considerably aid the breaking down of macronutrients and the extraction of nutrients from food. These enzymes are naturally produced in the body, but they are rarely ever enough.

In addition to the above, Ka’Chava also includes cocoa, coconut milk, vegetable fiber, Vanilla, xanthan gum, Lu Han fruit guar gum, and cinnamon. These organic ingredients help to add flavor, texture, and taste to the shakes.

The Shakeology Formula

Like Ka’Chava, Shakeology too groups its ingredients according to the most benefits one can derive from the component. Numerically, Shakeology does not involve as many ingredients but instead opts to add the most beneficial ones, which is a smarter move indeed. It is fortified with vitamins A, C, D, E, K2, and six B vitamins and minerals like calcium, iron, iodine, magnesium, zinc, selenium, chromium, potassium, and sodium. For this review, we are looking at the Vanilla Whey Shake. The details may vary slightly for the vegan options. The blends here are as follows.

Proprietary Protein Blend

This blend is designed to provide the raw materials for muscle mass building, muscle recovery, and keeping hunger at bay. To do so, Shakeology includes whey protein, flax seeds, quinoa, and pea protein. Comparatively, Shakeology provides 8 grams of protein less than Ka’Chava.

Proprietary Superfruit / Antioxidant Blend

To facilitate antioxidation, Shakeology uses a combination of berries and other fruits like Camu-Camu, acerola, blueberry, bilberry, Lycium berry, Luo Han Guo, pomegranate, rose hips, and vitamins A, C, and E. These components also support a healthy immune function.

Proprietary Supergreen / Phytonutrient Blend

Phytonutrients are needed to keep the body functioning optimally. Found in most fruits and vegetables, phytonutrients provide the body with trace amounts of nutrients that repair cells, improve function, and maintain cell health. Inclusions in this blend are chlorella, spinach, kale, and matcha green tea. 

Proprietary Adaptogen Blend

To provide stress relief, reduce cortisol levels, and improve mood, Shakeology employs the use of ashwagandha, astragalus, cordyceps mushroom, maca root, maitake mushroom, reishi mushroom, Schisandra and Chaga mushroom.

Proprietary Pre and Probiotics / Digestive Enzymes Blend

This group of ingredients comprises yacon root, chicory root, amylase, cellulase, lactase, glucoamylase, alpha-galactosidase, and invertase, all of which are instrumental in maintaining digestive and gastrointestinal integrity. There is also Bacillus Coagulans, which is a probiotic. Like Ka’Chava, there is no mention of the CFU count, which makes it difficult to judge efficacy.

Shakeology steers clear of artificial sweeteners, opting instead for organic cane sugar and stevia leaf extract for sweetness.

The Instant Knockout Complete Formula

This meal replacement powder was created for athletes – sticking to what is necessary with no frills. This powder is made with the least ingredients, but don’t let that fool you. Each ingredient here packs a punch like nothing else. Here you would find vitamins D, A, C, D, E, and K, the B vitamin complex, calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorus, iodine, magnesium, zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, chromium, molybdenum, chloride, and choline. To deliver these nutrients, Instant Knockout Complete uses the following components.

Plant-Based Protein

With pea protein and soy extract, this meal replacement shake ensures that the body has a fair share of essential amino acids and nutrients that support muscle growth, muscle tissue repair, and recovery after extended periods of exercise. These sources also act as sources of energy. With an impressive 35g of protein, the body has enough to build and recover without affecting the muscle already built in the body.

Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT)

Drawn from coconuts, MCTs are a rich source of healthy dietary fat that facilitates the metabolism of stored fat in the body. The MCT uses body fat as an alternate source of energy, especially when you are consuming fewer calories to support weight loss. MCTs also boost the body’s metabolic rate, which facilitates a faster burning of accumulated fat, which helps to regulate and maintain BMI in as little as two weeks of use.

Golden Flaxseeds & Chia Seeds

Both these tiny, humble seeds are absolute treasure troves of health benefits and are also great sources of fiber, protein, and healthy fats. They are perfect additions to a diet as they can keep the body running by supplying crucial nutrition without you having to consume large meals. The high fiber content also promotes digestive and gut health and would also keep you feeling full for longer.

Oat Flour

Oat flour sports a low glycemic index which means that it provides a healthy source of carbs without spiking blood sugar levels. The flour is also believed to support energy production and improve nutrient absorption.

Organic Brown Rice

Rich in BCAAs – valine, isoleucine, and leucine, brown rice provides the body with a healthy amino acid profile, which supports protein synthesis for muscle repair and growth, enhanced bone strength, and even energy production. It is a great alternative to whey protein.

Bacillus Coagulans (LactoSpore) & Lactobacillus Casei

These probiotic inclusions help the digestive process to cope with the changes to your diet. The pre-and probiotic content also helps to easily digest the other meals you consume during the day.

The formula also includes xanthan gum, guar gum, and sucralose.

Where Can You Buy These Meal Replacements?

The best way to get these complete food replacements is to order them directly from the official websites. This would ensure that you get the real deal, and the websites also feature discounts and subscriptions that are not available elsewhere.

Buy Ka’Chava

• On the official website, a bag that has 15 servings of Ka’Chava would cost you $69.99 as a one-time purchase.
• Should you choose to subscribe, a bag would cost $59.95 per bag with a delivery every 30 days. You are free to switch the flavors of the shake and also alter the frequency of the delivery of the powder as per your use. You can choose from 5 flavors: vanilla, coconut acai, matcha, and others.

In case you are dissatisfied with the product, Ka’Chava offers you a 30-day refund policy per flavor.

Buy Shakeology

Shakeology costs are a bit steeper with a bag costing $129.95 plus shipping and handling extra. You can choose between a 30-serving bag or 24 individual packs. There is a subscription plan in place, but there aren’t as many benefits as other brands. There are 6 flavors to choose from – 12, if you count the vegan and whey options. The return policy is slightly iffy, and a lot depends on whether you are a member of Team Beachbody or not. *Read the terms and conditions thoroughly before you buy the product.

Buy Instant Knockout Complete

Instant Knockout Complete can be purchased from the Official Website.

• One pouch contains 14 meal replacement servings and costs $59.99. The shake is only available in a vanilla flavor.
• A month’s worth, 2 pouches, would cost $118.00, get you free shipping, and give you access to free E-books and videos that could help you transform your body.

Instant Knockout Complete also offers a 30-day refund guarantee.

Which is the Best Meal Replacement Shake?

No meal shake can completely replace actual food, but if you substitute just one meal a day, it can prove beneficial. If your diet usually revolves around Chinese takeout, frozen meals, and pizza, a meal replacement powder, even cheaper alternatives can only do you good. Most meal replacements are fortified with more protein than any other macronutrient. This helps you feel full, supports weight loss, and fulfills nutritional gaps. This makes meal replacement shakes better than your stand protein shakes.

Ka’Chava, Shakeology, and Instant Knockout Complete are all excellent products. What makes the shakes comparable is that they are all able to provide nutritionally complete meal replacements that are easy, convenient, and a lot more cost-effective than cooking an organic meal from scratch. They provide a myriad of vitamins and minerals, and they can help with weight management.

The latter is probably the only major difference among the three brands. While Ka’Chava and Shakeology are designed to provide a number of health benefits, one of which is weight loss, Instant Knockout Complete was formulated for the sole purpose of burning fat and losing weight. While the former two shakes are more of a blanket nutrition product, Instant Knockout Complete concentrates all its efforts on helping the body burn fat, shed weight, build muscle, repair tissue, and bone, and recover quickly from exercise. The nutrient values are also a testament to this fact.

Apart from that, the three shakes are very similar, However, to help you make a better decision, here is a side-by-side comparison of the three.

Summary & Verdict

Adding a meal replacement shake to your everyday diet is a great start to a healthy lifestyle. It is especially profitable if you wish to have a low-calorie count, eat healthy, and not have meals that cost too much time or money. We compared Ka’Chava, Shakeology & Instant Knockout Complete to see which would be the better option to invest in.

While all three brands are good ones and are able to deliver on the promises they make, there is some difference between them. We stumbled upon the fact that meal replacements like Ka’Chava and Shakeology are crafted to provide numerous health advantages and take a more universal approach to promoting wellness. Instant Knockout Complete is formulated exclusively to help you lose weight, preserve muscle, and quickly recover from exercise. So, if you are looking for a supplement that can help you shed the extra pounds, Instant Knockout Complete is what we would recommend.