In recent years, studies have been published to show that a vegan/plant-based diet provides many health benefits, however with that being said you might be finding yourself struggling to meet your daily protein intake with a plant-based diet.
If you are looking to increase your protein intake, we have included some of the best rated vegan meal replacements in this article.
What is a Plant-Based Meal Replacement Made From?
Plant-based meal replacement shakes offer a great nutritional alternative to protein shakes for people who want to be more selective with the ingredients in their diet. Plant-based options are usually made from soy protein, rice protein, or pea protein isolate and contain vegetables such as vitamin E, omega-3s, iron, and calcium. Here are our top 5 picks for the best plant-based meal replacement shakes.
Top 5 Best Plant-Based Meal Replacement Shakes
#1. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Plant-based Powder
This powder is perfect for meal replacement or a supplement to healthy eating. The carbs are low enough not to cause any stomach issues, and you can be sure it’s a clean protein source. Replacing your meal with a glass of this shake is a great way to cut extra calories.
Not only does this powder taste good, but it also comes in many different flavors. This product is excellent for anyone looking to have a healthy lifestyle change or to help boost their body in the gym.
Benefits:
- Increased energy [from satiation]
- Muscle recovery and building
- Weight loss and fat burning
- Cleansing the body of toxins (cholesterol, estrogen, and other junk)
- Increased levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
#2. PlantFusion Complete Meal All Plant-Based Pea Protein
Pea protein is the protein of choice for plant-based nutrition because it’s high in amino acids, which are necessary for growth, repair, and general well-being. This product provides a complete amino acid profile which is hard to find in other protein supplements. It is a perfect meal replacement product containing zero cholesterol and low glycemic carbohydrates. The package comes with 16 servings suitable for someone looking to replace one meal a day with this shake. This product is excellent for someone looking to improve their health and perform better in the gym. Also, anyone suffering from allergies or lactose intolerance will be able to enjoy the benefits of this plant-based meal replacement shake without any side effects of bloating or other stomach issues.
Benefits:
- Weight loss (significant for those trying to get lean)
- Muscle building (great for those trying to get big and ripped)
- Higher energy levels
- Lower blood sugar levels. Lower blood sugar means a lower risk of diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
#3. Vega One(All-In-One-Shake)
This plant-based meal replacement shake is a great all-in-one product for those looking for extra nutrients and vitamins. It provides you with the vitamins and minerals your body needs on top of the protein. This powder is also packed with antioxidants and phytochemicals, which may benefit your long-term health. Most people report enjoying the taste which comes from a natural vanilla flavor. The texture is smooth, making it easy to drink down in just one or two gulps. Replacing your meal with this shake will help you feel satisfied for a more extended period which means less snacking. This product is excellent for anyone looking to get rid of mid-day hunger or maintain a healthy lifestyle. You can be sure that this product is clean and free of artificial flavors or preservatives.
Benefits:
Recovery and muscle building:
This shake has been shown to help repair muscles after workouts and promote muscle growth. It’s a meal replacement which means your body will be getting the nutrients it needs to function correctly even after a strenuous exercise.
Weight Loss:
This product is low in carbs, so it will keep your blood sugar at a level you are happy with after eating, meaning less chance of developing candida or other disorders that can cause weight gain.
Improved Energy
Improved appetite control
#4. Orgain Organic Meal Protein Powder
Orgain’s organic meal protein powder is an excellent source of protein and antioxidants. It is made from all-natural ingredients with no artificial flavors or preservatives, which means your body will only be getting beneficial nutrients. This product comes in two flavors chocolate and vanilla. It works perfectly in replacing meals and being able to be used as a snack by itself. Very few people have an issue with the taste, and you can be sure that this product is safe for everyone to use. It also contains 5 grams of fiber per serving, which is excellent for keeping you full and satisfied. If you are looking for a plant-based meal replacement shake that can be used on the go as a quick boost to get you through the day, then this would be an excellent choice for you.
Benefits:
- Muscle building
- Improvement in the immune system
- Increased energy levels.
- Healthier skin: The antioxidants found in this shake will keep your skin free of free radicals and keep it looking young and glowing.
- Weight loss: This product is low in carbs, so it will keep your blood sugar at a level you are happy with after eating, meaning less chance of developing candida or other disorders that can cause weight gain.
#5. RSP TrueFit Vegan Protein Powder
RSP TrueFit is a vegan protein powder which means it is free of animal products and only contains all-natural ingredients. It is made from non-GMO soy and rice, which means you will only be getting beneficial nutrients to improve your health. This product also comes in two flavors chocolate and vanilla. Many users have reported that the taste of this product is fantastic, being almost identical to the original brands of chocolate milk. This protein shake works well as a meal replacement shake since it has a high protein content and is low in carbs. It contains eight servings, great for someone who likes to replace one meal a day with this shake.
Benefits:
- Weight loss (significant for those trying to get lean)
- Muscle building (great for those trying to get big and ripped)
- Higher energy levels
- Lower blood sugar levels.
Final Thoughts
All the products on our list are great choices as they all provide good quality protein and have the best reviews on Amazon. If you are wanting to add additional l-glutamine to your protein shake you can check out our article on glutamine supplements which includes vegan options.