Is Shakeology Bad For You?
Short answer
Yes, Shakeology can be bad for you. The product was found to contain traces of lead in 2013. And although it has since been reformulated, there are more effective, less expensive ways to lose weight.
'N' stands for neutral. Things placed into this category are (a) neither good nor bad for you, or (b) lack the necessary evidence to reach any conclusions.
View Full Grading System
Category 'A'
Very healthy and numerous health benefits. Side effects are rare. Things rated an 'A+' are typically necessary for survival (for example, water).
Very healthy and numerous health benefits. A few harmful qualities may be associated, but only under certain circumstances such as an allergic reaction.
Very healthy and numerous health benefits. Harmful qualities may be associated, but aren't usually serious.
It is important to note that even the best things in life can become bad in immoderate amounts. So, although something may be rated an 'A+', overconsumption/overdoing can bring unwanted effects.
Category 'B'
Very beneficial to your health. Things rated a 'B+' may have a few harmful qualities to pay attention to.
Overall beneficial to your health. Things rated a 'B' may have some harmful qualities to pay attention to.
More beneficial to your health than not. However, harmful qualities are most likely associated and shouldn't be overlooked.
The main difference between category 'A' and category 'B' is the harmful qualities typically present in 'B' items. Serious side effects are usually uncommon, but are still possible and should be taken note of.
Category 'C'
Both beneficial and harmful qualities associated. Things rated a 'C+' are typically a bit more on the beneficial side. Still, moderation is important.
A fairly even ratio of beneficial and harmful qualities. Moderation is important. Very general topics that can lean towards both sides of the spectrum will be placed here as well. Rice, for example, can be good or bad depending on the type.
More harmful than beneficial. Side effects are common, especially when consumed/done excessively. Moderation is very important.
Category 'C' usually denotes to both good and bad qualities. When it comes to this category, it is important to keep this word in mind: moderation.
Category 'D'
Harmful to your health. Although benefits may be associated, the bad most likely outweighs the good. Moderation is very important.
Harmful to your health. A few benefits may be associated, but the bad outweighs the good. Moderation is extremely important.
Harmful to your health. Very few, if any, benefits are present. Things in this category should be avoided as much as possible.
Category 'D' is typically for things that are more harmful than beneficial. While consuming/doing something unhealthy once in a blue moon shouldn't hurt, we definitely recommend eliminating 'D' items as a regular part of your routine/diet.
Category 'F'
Category 'F' is for things that fail to bring anything beneficial to the table, and are very harmful to your health. We recommend completely avoiding anything in this category. Long-term side effects of 'F' items are usually very serious.
Category 'N'
'N' stands for neutral. Things placed into this category are generally (a) neither good nor bad for you, or (b) lack the necessary evidence to reach any conclusions.
Long answer
Shakeology refers to a complete line of meal replacement shakes intended for weight loss. It was introduced in 2011 by Beachbody, the corporation who is also responsible for the popular at-home fitness programs P90X and Insanity
Shakeology claims to improve health, boost energy levels, reduce cravings and ultimately, aid in weight loss. But does it actually work? Or could it be bad for you?
Let’s start with the ingredients that are listed on the label. Shakeology contains whey protein and fiber to help you feel fuller longer. It also contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals for nutrition and immune system support, along with probiotics and enzymes to support digestive health. That is all pretty standard stuff—no cause for concern here. The real issue lies with what’s not on the ingredients list.
In 2013, ConsumerLab.com released a report stating that they had found lead contamination in Shakeology’s greenberry flavor: approximately 12.7 micrograms of lead in each serving. Soon after the discovery, Dr. Oz ran a special on trace amounts of lead occurring in certain protein supplements. Shakeology was on the list, and the program received wide exposure.
Soon after the story broke, Beachbody released a statement defending Shakeology. They stated that metals were naturally occurring in some minerals, and that their product was in no way toxic. And though they refuted the claim, they decided to reformulate the product anyway. As of 2015, Consumer Reports states that lead is no longer found in Shakeology.
Even though the new formulation might technically be safe for consumption, there are now questions about whether or not it even works. There are tons of personal testimonials and positive reviews online, but these all come from the Shakeology site itself—or Beachbody “coaches” who receive a commission on the products they sell. If you read the fine print at the bottom of the Shakeology website, it clearly states:
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
The products are also very expensive. The cost of Shakeology works out to be around $120 for a 30-day serving. That’s roughly $4 per 140-calorie shake, which haven’t even been clinically proven to help anyone lose weight.
Before you try Shakeology (or any other weight loss program) it’s important to consult your primary physician first. Everyone responds to diets differently, and drastically reducing your intake to 140 calories for one meal might not be safe for everyone. Your physician will be able to provide a personalized recommendation on the best approach to safely meeting your fitness goals.
Possible short-term side effects
- dizziness
-
abdominal cramps
-
bloating
Possible long-term side effects
Please turn your Ad Blocker off to see this content. Thank you!
Approved by 
