Those who want to slim down or gain muscle weight often resort to meal replacement shakes and protein powders. These products suppress appetite and fill the nutrition gap caused by a strict diet. These days, they can be found practically at every step – from drugstores to variety stores. The selection of shakes and powders is wide but are they all effective and safe? Let’s find it out by reviewing GNC Lean Shake 25, a popular meal replacement powder that is said to be “an essential component of a successful weight management program”.
Ingredients
GNC Lean Shakes have been on the market since 2009. They come in different flavors and are sold both online and in stores. The ingredients of this powder include protein concentrates, non-fat dry milk, sucralose, acesulfame potassium, vitamins and minerals, and about 40 other components. Some of those ingredients are potentially dangerous and can cause side effects.
Proteins
4 protein sources are used to get 25 grams of protein for each shake. However, 2 of them are rather controversial. Milk protein concentrate is a questionable ingredient since it doesn’t completely meet the safety regulations. A regular intake of sodium caseinate can lead to cancer. The percentage of each of these proteins in the powder is unknown.
Sweeteners
Among the sweeteners added to GNC Lean Shakes, there are two artificial ones that may trigger some health problems. Until recently sucralose has had a safe status but now it should be treated with caution. Acesulfame potassium, another sweetener, is said to be carcinogenic and linked to some neurological problems. According to the results of some studies, artificial sweeteners can even elevate the risk of obesity.
Trans fats
The main source of trans fat is partially hydrogenated oils. Since trans fats are formed after your organism digests hydrogenated oils, they are not listed on the ingredient labels. Lean Shake 25 does contain some partially hydrogenated soybean oil that transforms into trans fat in the body. When they are accumulated in the organism, they can lead to obesity and heart disease.
Price
GNC Lean Shake 25 is quite pricey. It can be purchased from the company’s website for$44.99. Each container has 16 servings. With 2 servings a day, one container will be used in 8 days. In comparison with meal replacements containing wholesome whey protein, Lean Shake is expensive. Probably, this is because it features 4 sources of protein.
Taste
Customers often complain about the poor taste of GNC Lean Shakes. Some say artificial sweeteners make it too sweet. Others are turned off by its chalky taste. Still, there are those customers who like it and even have their favorite flavors.
Effectiveness
Any diet product can be described as working or non-effective. GNC Lean Shake 25 does provide a significant amount of fiber to suppress appetite. Still, some of its ingredients are rather controversial in terms of safety.
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