Diet meal substitutes

Substitutes can aid weight loss. They can help you lose weight rapidly without depriving your body of the nutrients it needs, and can be a useful tool for anyone watching their figure. Meal substitutes should

be used as part of a strict low-calorie diet and are not recommended for people who suffer from low energy or who struggle for motivation. They soon get boring and repetitive, so if you're not serious about weight or you're prone to snacking, they're not for you. You can buy meal substitutes from pharmacies, supermarkets, health and specialist shops. Always read the (obligatory) list of ingredients, and the labels and instructions for use.

Ideally, meal substitutes should be high in protein (15-20g per meal), contain enough low-GI carbs to keep you going (20-30g per meal), and very little fat (around 6g per meal), plus lots of vitamins, minerals and fiber.