What are the best meal replacement shakes for sensitive stomachs?
drink wholesome makes the best meal replacement shakes for sensitive stomachs. They are made with a short list of simple ingredients and safe for most gut issues. If you need to boost your protein intake without the extra processing and added junk, you have to come to the right place. Order samples to see if our meal replacements are right for you.
MEAL REPLACEMENT POWDERS
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drink wholesome makes the best meal replacement shakes for sensitive stomachs.
Written by Jack Schrupp & endorsed by Baylee Reller, RDN
What is a sensitive stomach?
A “sensitive stomach” is a non-medical term used to describe a stomach that gets upset easily. It is estimated that approximately 1 in 5 people have a sensitive stomach, which means they frequently experience gastrointestinal (GI) issues such as bloating, cramps, constipation, diarrhea, gas, nausea, and stomach pain.
Common causes of a sensitive stomach include food allergies and chronic digestive conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). In many cases, however, the exact cause is unknown. Fortunately, many individuals with sensitive stomachs can effectively manage their symptoms through dietary and lifestyle modifications, and by identifying and avoiding the foods or types of food that trigger their symptoms.
Are meal replacement shakes good for sensitive stomachs?
Individuals with sensitive stomachs often struggle to digest food, which lead to weight loss and malnutrition. This is where meal replacements can come to the rescue. Incorporating a meal replacement shake into your diet is a convenient way to ensure you are getting the necessary calories and nutrients to maintain your strength and overall health. That said, not all meal replacement shakes are created equal.
What are the best meal replacement shakes for sensitive stomachs?
There are several reasons why some meal replacement shakes are not suitable for people with sensitive stomachs. First of all, many meal replacements contain added emulsifiers, thickeners, sweeteners, and flavors. Ingredients like these can cause painful side effects and disrupt your gut microbiome – the collection of microorganisms living in your gut. If you need a meal replacement that is easy on the stomach, start by avoiding food additives.
Many meal replacement shakes also contain dairy-based proteins like whey and casein, which are notoriously hard to digest, even for people who are not lactose intolerant. Steer clear whey and casein if you need a meal replacement that is stomach-friendly.
Finally, the way that some meal replacement ingredients are processed can also make them hard to digest. Most meal replacement shakes are made with protein concentrates and/or isolates, for example, which look nothing like real food. For someone with pre-existing gut issues, this can be a huge problem. Stick to meal replacements made with minimally or unprocessed whole foods, not protein concentrates and isolates.
99.99% of all meal replacements contain food additives, dairy-based proteins, and/or heavily-processed protein concentrates and isolates. This is why I created drink wholesome. I was sick of meal replacements that upset my stomach, so I made my own with a short list of simple ingredients. I believe that the more your meal replacement looks like real food, the easier it will be to digest, and the less likely it will be to upset your stomach. Keep reading to learn more.
Why drink wholesome?
drink wholesome is additive-free.
One of the reasons why we make the best meal replacement shakes for sensitive stomachs is that we do not use any food additives, period. This includes gums, lecithin, fake flavors, and fake sweeteners. Even in small amounts, added ingredients like these can trigger painful side effects, especially if you have a sensitive stomach.
Food additives are so processed that they look nothing like real food. This makes them hard to digest, which means they give your gut bacteria extra time to eat. Gut bacteria release gas as they eat, so more time to eat means more gas. This can cause bloating, flatulence, and stomach pain. It can also slow colonic transit – the amount of time it takes food to travel through the colon – leading to constipation.
In some cases, partially digested food additives cause your colon to absorb extra water and/or prevent your colon from absorbing water. This is called osmotic diarrhea, and is the reason why meal replacement shakes make people run to the bathroom.
Here is a list of the most common food additives in meal replacement shakes:
acacia gum, acesulfame potassium, artificial flavors, aspartame, carrageenan, cellulose gum, dextrin, dextrose, erythritol, gellan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, inulin, locust bean gum, “natural” flavors, maltodextrin, rice syrup solids, soy lecithin, silica, sucralose, sunflower lecithin, xanthan gum, xylitol
What is more, eating lots of food additives can disturb regulatory pathways in your intestines, leading to the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and other inflammatory disorders. Food additives, especially artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols, can also disrupt your gut microbiome. This is a leading cause of inflammation, and associated with the onset and progression of many chronic diseases.
the alternative:
SOY PROTEIN ISOLATE, CANOLA OIL, MALTODEXTRIN, ISOMALTULOSE, SOLUBLE CORN FIBER, MODIFIED FOOD STARCH, VITAMIN AND MINERAL PREMIX, CELLULOSE, NATURAL & ARTIFICIAL FLAVORS, SOY LECITHIN, SALT, MONO & DIGLYCERIDE, XANTHAN GUM, SUCRALOSE
drink wholesome is dairy-free.
Another reason why we make the best meal replacement shakes for sensitive stomachs is that we do not use dairy-based proteins. Plenty of other meal replacements are made with whey and casein, which are byproducts of cheese and yogurt production. They are known to cause digestive issues.
Lactose, the sugar in dairy, is hard to digest for some people. As you just learned, foods that are hard to digest tend to cause unpleasant side effects, so it is definitely in your best interest to steer clear of whey and casein if you have a sensitive stomach.
drink wholesome is made with real foods.
A final reason why we make the best meal replacement for sensitive stomachs is that we do not use protein concentrates or isolates. Virtually all other meal replacement powders are made from one or both of these protein sources.
Protein concentrates and isolates are foods that have been stripped down to only the protein content by intensive mechanical and chemical processing, sometimes involving solvents like hexane. What you end up putting into your body, it follows, looks almost nothing like real food.
Your gut is designed to break down minimally or unprocessed foods, not protein concentrates or isolates. This is why research indicates that regularly consuming refined ingredients like these can disrupt the balance of your gut microbiome, which is the last thing you want if you have a sensitive stomach.
Instead of using protein concentrates or isolates, we make the best meal replacement for sensitive stomachs with egg whites and almonds. Minimally-processed protein sources like these are a gut-healthy alternative to protein concentrates and isolates.
Unlike protein isolates and concentrates, whole foods like egg whites and almonds are full of enzymes and digestive aids that make them easier for your body to break down. Egg whites have the added advantage of being low in fiber, low in FODMAPs, alkaline (helping maintain a healthy gut pH), and bioactive (fostering the growth of beneficial gut bacteria).
Almonds, on the other hand, are also super gut healthy. They are prebiotic, meaning they enhance the diversity and balance of your gut microbiome, and help promote regular and healthy bowel movements. Simple ingredients like this are our secret to making the best meal replacement shakes for sensitive stomachs.
“I’ve tried out so many protein powders and meal replacements, and they always gave me stomach issues…That’s why I got drink wholesome.” – Tommy
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This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. drink wholesome is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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Discovering the Ideal Meal Replacement Shakes for Sensitive Stomachs
Introduction
In today’s fast-paced world, meal replacement shakes have gained popularity as a convenient and nutritious option for those with busy lifestyles or dietary restrictions. For individuals with sensitive stomachs, finding the right meal replacement shake can make a significant difference in maintaining a balanced diet without experiencing digestive discomfort. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best meal replacement shakes tailored for sensitive stomachs and delve into the gut health benefits of key ingredients like egg whites, almonds, oats, and coconut meat.
Understanding Sensitive Stomachs
Before we embark on our journey into the world of meal replacement shakes, it’s essential to understand what a sensitive stomach entails. People with sensitive stomachs often experience digestive discomfort, including bloating, cramps, constipation, diarrhea, gas, nausea, and stomach pain when consuming certain foods or beverages. This heightened sensitivity to specific ingredients can be attributed to various factors, such as food allergies, intolerances, or simply a delicate digestive system.
Meal replacement shakes designed for sensitive stomachs prioritize ingredients that are gentle on the digestive system, making it easier for individuals to meet their nutritional needs without the discomfort that may arise from traditional meals.
The Gut Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Now, let’s delve into the gut health benefits of four key ingredients that make meal replacement shakes gentle on sensitive stomachs:
- Egg Whites: Egg whites are a nutritional powerhouse that offers numerous gut health benefits. They are a rich source of high-quality protein, containing all the essential amino acids needed for optimal health. More importantly, egg whites are exceptionally easy to digest, making them an ideal choice for those with sensitive stomachs.
- Gut-Friendly Protein: The protein in egg whites is readily absorbed and used by the body, supporting muscle maintenance and growth without putting undue stress on the digestive system.
- Amino Acid Support: Amino acids found in egg whites play a crucial role in maintaining gut health. They contribute to the repair and regeneration of the gastrointestinal lining, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with sensitive stomachs.
- Almonds: Almonds are not only a delicious and nutritious addition to meal replacement shakes but also offer several gut health benefits. They are a source of healthy fats, protein, and dietary fiber, all of which contribute to a well-rounded diet that supports digestive health.
- Fiber for Regularity: Almonds are rich in dietary fiber, which aids in regular bowel movements and helps prevent constipation, a common concern for those with sensitive stomachs.
- Microbiome Support: The fiber in almonds can also promote a healthy gut microbiome by providing nourishment to beneficial gut bacteria. A balanced microbiome is essential for optimal digestive function.
- Oats: Oats are a dietary staple known for their versatility and numerous health benefits. When included in meal replacement shakes, they offer several advantages for sensitive stomachs.
- Digestive Comfort: Oats contain soluble fiber, which forms a gel-like substance when mixed with liquid. This can help soothe the stomach lining, reduce irritation, and alleviate digestive discomfort.
- Regular Bowel Movements: Oats are known for their ability to regulate bowel movements, making them an excellent choice for individuals with sensitive stomachs who may struggle with irregularity.
- Coconut Meat: Coconut meat adds a delightful tropical twist to meal replacement shakes while providing unique gut health benefits.
- Gentle on the Stomach: Coconut meat is inherently gentle on the stomach and is less likely to cause digestive distress compared to some other ingredients. It provides a creamy texture without the need for dairy products.
- Improved Digestion: Coconut meat contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easier to digest than other fats. This can help individuals with sensitive stomachs absorb nutrients more efficiently.
Top Meal Replacement Shakes for Sensitive Stomachs
Now that we’ve explored the gut health benefits of these key ingredients, let’s introduce some of the best meal replacement shakes tailored to individuals with sensitive stomachs:
- Smooth and Creamy Egg White-Based Shake: This meal replacement shake is a nutritional powerhouse, featuring egg whites as the primary protein source. By combining the digestive ease of egg whites with the creaminess of coconut meat, this shake offers a rich and satisfying texture.
- Customization: To enhance the flavor and nutritional profile, consider adding a small amount of almond butter or crushed almonds for extra protein and a touch of healthy fat.
- Oat-Infused Protein Shake: If you’re looking for a shake that provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber, the Oat-Infused Protein Shake is an excellent choice. It starts with a base of almond milk, blended with oats to create a creamy consistency.
- Personalize: Add a scoop of your preferred protein powder (preferably one designed for sensitive stomachs) and sweeten it with honey or a ripe banana for natural sweetness.
- Almond Delight Shake: For a nutty twist on your meal replacement shake, consider the Almond Delight Shake. This shake blends almond milk with a handful of almonds and a scoop of high-quality protein powder.
- Variation: To make it even more stomach-friendly, incorporate a small amount of cooked oats and a spoonful of coconut meat. This combination offers a satisfying and gentle shake for sensitive stomachs.
- Coconut Bliss Shake: If you’re a fan of the tropical flavor of coconut, you’ll adore the Coconut Bliss Shake. It combines coconut meat with almond milk to create a creamy base for your meal replacement shake.
- Personal Touch: Add a scoop of your preferred protein powder (ideally egg white-based) and sweeten it with honey for a touch of natural sweetness. This shake not only pampers your taste buds but also pampers your sensitive stomach.
Customizing Your Meal Replacement Shake
One of the wonderful aspects of meal replacement shakes is their high level of customizability to match your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are some tips for customizing your shake:
- Sweeteners: Opt for natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or ripe bananas to add sweetness without causing digestive issues.
- Flavor Enhancers: Experiment with spices such as cinnamon or vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of your shake.
- Texture: Adjust the thickness and texture of your shake by adding more or less liquid, or by incorporating ingredients like chia seeds or flaxseeds for extra thickness.
- Fruits and Vegetables: Boost the nutritional content of your shake by adding fruits and vegetables such as spinach, kale, berries, or avocados.
- Protein Powders: Choose protein powders specifically formulated for sensitive stomachs, as they often contain enzymes that aid in digestion.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect meal replacement shake for sensitive stomachs can be a game-changer, allowing individuals to maintain a balanced diet without experiencing digestive discomfort. By prioritizing ingredients like egg whites, almonds, oats, and coconut meat, you can create delicious and nutritious shakes that are gentle on your digestive system.
Experiment with different ingredients and flavors to discover your ideal combination. Keep in mind that everyone’s stomach is unique, so it may require some trial and error to find the perfect meal replacement shake that suits your preferences and dietary requirements. With the right ingredients and a dash of creativity, you can enjoy the convenience