Meal replacements have flooded the shelves of supermarkets. Based on the principle of a restricted diet, they can precisely control the input energy. However, they must be used with caution.

Principe: The principle of this method is to replace one or two meals each day prepared by a low in calories. This allows theoretically not exceed 1 000 Kcal per day in total. These alternatives are often powder flavored with vanilla or chocolate, mix with skim milk, or any preparations ready for soups or puddings. When consumed in place of a meal, the substitute must be supplemented by fruit and dairy products to get a satisfying meal (and balanced).

Review: These preparations are generally well balanced nutritional plan, provided to at least one real meal in the day. The alternatives are attractive when used as part of comprehensive measures that combine sport and varied diet. They are also useful to mitigate the excesses of holidays or to anticipate the excesses to come. A major problem is that these preparations are monotonous in their taste and presentation. In addition, a 1 to 000 kcal per day can not be extended over two to three weeks. It must be stopped gradually to avoid resume immediately weight.