I regularly use meal replacements. They fit in with my busy lifestyle and are easy and simple to prepare. Drinking many meal replacements, I came to realize that I may be ingesting far too much Stevia.
I don’t like the taste of Stevia. Although many people claim that Stevia has no taste, I am sure that I detect a bitterness and licorice-like aroma. It may be in my imagination but I can’t get past it!
What is Stevia and why avoid it?
At a glance, Stevia is a natural product used to replace sugar and should not be a concern. It is generally accepted that Stevia, when used in place of sugar as a sweetener, will not have adverse side effects. However, after some research, I discovered that Stevia, like anything eaten in abundance, may have some negative effects.
Stevia is a diuretic that increases the speed at which the body expels water. Large volumes may adversely affect kidney functions. Stevia is known to act as a vasodilator, causing blood vessels to widen and lowering overall blood pressure. As such, it is not a good option for people who suffer from low blood pressure.
My choice of best meal replacement shakes without Stevia
After loads of tasting, here are my best meal replacement shakes without stevia. You can decide which ones tempt your taste buds!
Your Super Skinny Protein Mix
Overview:
- Taste: 6/10
- Cost per serving: $1.70
- Protein: 9g plant based
- Sugar: 0g per serving
- Sodium: 95mg
Pros
- 2 vegan proteins enriched with 3 green superfoods
- 100% natural
- Formulated by holistic nutritionists
- Only 1.4g carbs per serving
- Zero sugar
Cons
- Only 1 flavor
- Less protein than other meal replacements
Insight
Your Super Skinny Protein Mix is a 100% all-natural mix that contains plant based proteins. It offers a lower amount of protein per serving, at only 9g. This is great if you are only looking for a small boost of protein. The proteins come from 5 plant-based ingredients, spirulina, alfalfa, moringa, hemp protein, and pea protein. It also contains all the essential amino acids and vitamins required daily.
It is easy to mix, I just added the 2 tablespoons into water. The taste is close to a nutty, green juice. If you are looking for a chocolate fix, this won’t do it for you. I am not a great fan of the ‘green’ taste, so I mixed things up a bit and added it to a fruity smoothie with raspberries, mango, and banana, which tasted great. This process, however, does take longer to prepare.
Who is this shake ideal for?
The shake is great to control your hunger at work, on the go, or when you are too busy to prepare a meal. It is ideal as a boost after a gym workout, a cycle, or a run. Use it as part of a weight-loss diet or as part of a detox diet. If you want to speed up muscle recovery and growth, this is a great choice.
Nuzest Clean Lean Protein
Overview:
- Taste: 9/10
- Cost per serving: $2.25
- Protein: 20g plant based
- Sugar: 0g per serving
- Sodium: 500mg
Pros
- 8 great flavors to choose from
- 100% natural
- Zero sugar
- Vegan, Paleo, Kosher
- Light and easy to digest
Cons
- A bit sticky to mix up
- Higher price per serving
Insight
Nuzest Clean Lean Protein is ideal for all ages and levels of fitness. By supplying a high amount of protein and low carbohydrates, it keeps you feeling full and energetic for hours.
It contains all nine essential amino acids and provides the building blocks for vitality, repair, recovery, and muscle growth. I like this formula because it is light on the stomach and easy to digest. You won’t feel bloated after drinking it.
The protein comes from the highest quality European golden peas. There are no chemicals, no additives and no preservatives. It is certified gluten-free and GMO-free. There is also zero sugar, a bonus for me.
The flavor choice is really great. They have Just Natural, Smooth Vanilla, Rich Chocolate, Wild Strawberry, Real Coffee, Vanilla Matcha, Chai Turmeric + Maca, Coffee Coconut + MCTs. Being a chocoholic, the Rich Chocolate is my fave!
Nuzest Clean Lean Protein can be mixed or blended. It is a bit sticky to start but does mix to a smooth texture in water, oat milk, or almond milk. It can also be used in scrumptious baking recipes. The product is ideal for a vegan diet and a Paleo diet.
Who is this shake ideal for?
Because it provides a great source of protein and low carbohydrates, anyone looking for healthy Stevia free meal replacement shakes can use this product. Nuzest Clean Lean Protein is ideal for people on a weight loss protein. It is also great for repairing muscles and building strength after an illness or injury.
Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein Powder
Overview:
- Taste: 6/10
- Cost per serving: $1.65
- Protein: 22g plant based
- Sugar: 0g per serving
- Sodium: 180mg
Pros
- Complete Protein from 22 RAW Organic Sprouts
- Fat-Soluble Vitamins A, D, E and K
- Live Probiotics and Enzymes
- 100% natural
- Zero sugar
- Vegan, vegetarian
Cons
- Only 2 flavors, vanilla and chocolate
- Texture is a bit sludgy
Insight
The Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein Powder offers 22g of protein per serving. It is made of plant protein, mostly peas, and 13 RAW organic sprouts. RAW indicates that the ingredients are processed at low temperatures and are not pasteurized.
The shake is high in vitamins A, D, E and K. It also contains added probiotics, good bacteria that keep your body healthy and functioning correctly. Contained in Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein Powder are 3 billion CFU probiotics and enzymes for easy digestion. This mix has many positive points, it is organic, gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, and
soy-free. It has no fillers and no preservatives.
I enjoy the smooth texture it gives after mixing with water or almond milk. The vanilla flavor is quite bland, so I use it in smoothies and add tasty seasonal fruits. It also mixes well into a green shake.
Who is this shake ideal for?
These Stevia free meal replacement shakes are great as a pre and post workout recovery. It will help your muscles recover and repair. It is ideal for people who want a fast snack on the run or in the office. Being a clean plant based product, it is good for those with sensitivities to milk, soy, or whey.
Vega Protein Made Simple
Overview:
- Taste: 8/10
- Cost per serving: $1.50
- Protein: 15g plant based
- Sugar: 6g per serving
- Sodium: 250mg
Pros
- 4 great flavors
- Natural cane sugar
- Simple mixture for people with sensitivities
- Great recipes on the website
- Company has a commitment to sustainability
Cons
- More calories and sugar than others
- The tub could be bigger for a family!
Insight
Vega Protein Made Simple is just that – simple. It is made with only 4 to 8 natural ingredients, depending on the flavor. Talking about flavor, this shake comes in an exciting Dark Chocolate, Vanilla, Strawberry Banana, and Caramel Toffee. They are all delicious.
This is a plant based protein shake, with the main protein ingredient sourced from peas. It contains sea salt, cane sugar, and coconut. It is not thickened or filled with any gums. I do take into account that this shake has 6g of sugar per serving, so if I am dieting, I rather use another shake for those few weeks.
Their website offers some fun recipes to make the shake more exciting. I tried the smoothies and even used it in baking brownies. It has a nice smooth texture when mixed with water, almond milk or oat milk. There is no chalky or gritty taste, and no aftertaste.
Who is this shake ideal for?
This is a fun and simple shake for anyone wanting a quick meal replacement at work or on the go. I drink my shake after a workout for an energy boost. I also enjoy sipping it on a run or a walk. If you want a clean, no-nonsense tasty shake with an adequate amount of protein, give it a try.
Orgain Organic Nutrition Shake
Overview:
- Taste: 9/10
- Cost per serving: $1.62
- Protein: 16g whey based
- Sugar: 12g per serving
- Sodium: 260mg
Pros
- 4 great flavors
- Gluten-free, kosher
- Easy to digest
- Ready-to-drink
- USDA Organic
Cons
- May not suit people who prefer a powder
- Higher sugar content
Insight
Orgain Organic Nutrition Shake offers a well-balanced meal option and a post workout shake. It is great for people on the go. The formula offers 16g of grass-fed whey protein. Whey protein is not a plant based protein. It comes from the liquid that remains after milk has been curdled and strained. It is also a by-product from the manufacture of cheese. As such, it is a no-go for people sensitive to dairy products. This product also contains a mix of organic fruits and vegetables. It is made without soy and is gluten-free.
There are 4 flavors to choose from, creamy chocolate fudge, sweet vanilla bean, iced coffee mocha, and strawberries and cream. This is a ready-to-drink shake, you don’t have the hassle of scooping and mixing, simply open and enjoy! The chocolate fudge is delicious and tastes like a creamy chocolate milkshake.
Who is this shake ideal for?
Orgain Organic Nutrition Shake is ideal for anyone wanting to maintain a well-balanced diet easily with no fuss. You can use it as part of a weight-loss program and also as a muscle repair drink after a workout. It gives a great energy boost before settling down to work or study. As a ready-to-drink shake, it suits people who prefer not to scoop and mix.
Naked Pea Protein Powder
Overview:
- Taste: 5/10
- Cost per serving: $0.72
- Protein: 27g plant based
- Sugar: 2g per serving
- Sodium: 110mg
Pros
- Made only from peas
- Minimal sugar
- Vegan, vegetarian
- Easily absorbed by the body
- Good price per serving
Cons
- Acquired taste
- Chalky texture
Insight
Naked Pea Protein is just that – peas and nothing else. If you are looking for a clean 100% natural product, this is a great choice. The yellow-split peas are sourced from environmentally-friendly farms and are processed via water extraction without the use of chemicals. The sugar component is low at only 2g and comes from the natural sugar found in peas.
I do find the mix to be a bit chalky, and not that great tasting when mixed with water. The package claims that it is unflavored, but I did detect a hint of flavor. However, mixing it into a fruit smoothie or green smoothie works great and gives me all the protein I need. It is easy to digest and doesn’t leave me feeling bloated.
Who is this shake ideal for?
This is a great drink to sip before or after a workout at the gym. It is ideal for vegans, vegetarians, and people with lactose sensitivities. Use it to build muscle and boost energy levels. It will support the immune system and improve overall health. As part of a weight loss program, it reduces the craving for snacks, indirectly helping you to eat less.
Tera’s Whey Grass Fed Organic Whey Protein Powder
Overview:
- Taste: 6/10
- Cost per serving: $2.00
- Protein: 21g whey based
- Sugar: 3g per serving
- Sodium: 55mg
Pros
- Versatile Plain flavor
- Gluten-free
- Low Sodium
- Animals eat 100% organic feed and pasture
- No antibiotics or hormones for animals
Cons
- It May not suit people who are dairy intolerant
- Only plain flavor
Insight
Tera’s Whey Grass Fed Organic Plain Whey Protein Concentrate offers 21g of whey based protein. This concentrate comes in a plain flavor that does not have stevia. It is also available in a chocolate flavor that does contain small amounts of Stevia. The whey protein is locally sourced from small family farms in Wisconsin, the dairy heartland of America. The powder is made with simple, clean ingredients. It is low carb, low glycemic, and gluten-free.
Because it is plain, it is ideal to use as a base in smoothies where I can add in seasonal fruits and veggies. The website gives a great selection of recipes ranging from cookies, to pancakes, breads, and pastas. Keep in mind that this is a grass-fed whey protein and is not suitable for people who are sensitive to dairy products.
I enjoy the fact that the company is very focused on eco-friendly friendly sustainable farming methods.
Who is this shake ideal for?
This is a well-balanced meal option that is ideal for people on the go.
It is a great all-round booster – use it as a morning wake-up, afternoon pick-me-up, or a post-workout recharger. It is ideal to include as part of a weight-loss diet as it reduces cravings for snacks between meals.
Quick Breakdown
Most Affordable:
Naked Pea Protein Powder at under $1.00 per serving
Lowest Sugar: These have 0g sugar
Cleanest:
Naked Pea Protein Powder – only contains peas!
Highest Protein per Serving:
- Naked Pea Protein Powder with 27g per serving
My No.1 Picks!
My No 1 pick for a plant protein is Nuzest Clean Lean Protein. I love that it has so many flavors and offers 20g of protein per serving.
My best low sodium whey protein is Tera’s Whey Grass Fed Organic Plain Whey Protein Concentrate. It only has 55mg of sodium per serving.
Overall, I prefer a plant-based protein. Plant-based proteins are cleaner and contain fewer ingredients. I like to know exactly what is in the shake, without having to read difficult-to-pronounce names.
Most plant-based protein shakes come from peas with the addition of organic fruits and veggies. Some add natural probiotics for a healthy digestive system. Whey products are sometimes more difficult to digest and are not recommended for people with lactose intolerance.