In the modern rhythm of life, many people replace full food with cocktails that seem to be a convenient and quick option. They are popular among those who want to lose weight or do not devote time to cook healthy food.
However, external simplicity can be hidden by unusual health risks. Nutritionists warn that food substitutes have both advantages and potentially undesirable consequences, writes Eatthis.com.
1. They are not vital
Food substitutes can be better than fast food, but this does not mean that they are more useful than a well -thought -out full dinner.
“I would not be a nutritionist if I did not emphasize that you can get all the necessary macro and trace elements from high -quality solid products,” says nutritionist Brittani Lubek.
She explains that such cocktails are suitable only if there are not enough certain substances in your diet.
2. In your diet can skip fiber
According to nutritionist Diana Garillo-Clelland, many cocktails that are located as food substitutes or protein drinks contain insufficient fiber.
“This component is extremely important for the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, heart health and general well-being. If there is no fiber in your cocktail, it is likely that its nutritional value also leaves much to be desired, ”she explains.
In addition, in such mixtures there are often antioxidants, which usually come from entire vegetables and fruits.
3. You can start gaining weight
It would seem that cocktails with fewer calories should contribute to weight loss. But there is a nuance.
The nutritionist Ana Risdorf warns: “Many of these cocktails are so low calories that after consumption a person still feels hunger.
4. You can deprive yourself of important phytochemical compounds
Fruits and vegetables contain natural phytochemicals – these are biologically active components that have colors and have a positive effect on health.
“Although food substitutes are enriched with vitamins and minerals, they do not provide the same range of beneficial properties that you receive by consuming various products from entire planters,” said Garilio-Clelland.
5. Probable digestive problems and not only
Many people do not know that food additives are not subject to the same strict control as medicines. They are not tested for safety, and manufacturers are not required to warn about possible side effects on packaging.
This means that you can have a reaction to artificial ingredients, such as sodium benzoate (preservative), karagenan (thickening that causes inflammation) or xantan gum (stabilizer).
The nutritionist Mary VIRC advises carefully choosing products: “I always recommend buying protein powders or food substitutes that have been subjected to an independent check and do not contain dangerous impurities.”
Earlier, OBOZ.UA wrote how stress can interfere with weight loss.
Source: Obozrevatel

I’m a journalist who covers health care news. I’ve been working in the news industry for more than 6 years. I have experience writing for print, online, and television. My work has been published by various news websites and magazines.