How to Make Meal Replacement Shakes

Meal replacement shakes can help you lose weight, and making your own shakes at home can save you money over buying shakes sold in stores.  Homemade meal replacement shakes taste great, are easy to make and can be customized to fit your preferences.

Things you will need:

• Ice cubes


• Fruit of your choice


• Protein powder of your choice


• Ground flaxseed


• Peanut butter, if desired


• Milk


• Blender


• Plastic bottles

1. Determine what kind of protein powder you would like to use.  Whey protein is a good choice for weight loss, but other varieties are available, including casein and soy.  Each have its own benefits.  Research the different kinds that are available to find the one that works best for your situation.


2. Choose a combination of two or three fruits to use in the shake.  The fruit provides much of the flavor of the shake and can be any blend you would like.  Strawberries, bananas and tropical fruits such as papaya and mango are packed with nutrients and make great-tasting shakes.


3. Fill the blender about half full of ice cubes; fill it less for a thinner shake.  Run it for a minute or two to crush the ice.


4. Add the fruit, after having sliced it in chunks, and blend for a minute or two. 


5. Stop the blender, and add about 1 tablespoon of peanut butter, if desired.  Peanut butter provides B vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids and gives the shake a rich and satisfying taste.


6. Scoop 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed into the blender.  Flaxseed also has omega-3 fatty acids and is high in fiber. 


7. Add enough protein powder to reach approximately 25 grams of protein.  Refer to the protein powder’s container for the exact measurement to reach this amount.  Protein is important for muscles to burn fat, which gives your body a lean look.  It also keeps you  full for longer periods.


8. Turn on the blender and mix thoroughly.  This may take five minutes or more.


9. Stop the blender, and add milk to reach the desired consistency.  Blend well.  Pour the shake into empty plastic bottles and store in the refrigerator.