Does Nutrament taste good

Harvard Health Ad Watch: Are nutritional drinks actually good for you?

I first heard of nutritional drinks in the 1980s, early in my medical training. They were recommended for people struggling to maintain a healthy weight, often due to loss of appetite, cancer, or swallowing problems.

Since then, nutritional supplement drinks like Boost and Ensure have gone mainstream. Their widespread, primetime advertising aimed at a much broader audience has proven highly effective. The market for nutritional drinks is now worth many billions of dollars. In 2019, Ensure sales alone totaled nearly $400 million.

When you watch ads for nutritional drinks, do you wonder if you should start drinking them? Will it improve your health or fend off future health problems, as the ads suggest? Are there any downsides? Read on.

What the ads say

Right now, two ads in heavy rotation are for Boost and Ensure.

One 30-second ad for Boost shows a well-appearing older woman holding a camera (a real, two-handed, professional photographer's camera, not a cell phone). As she takes photos of a young, hipster musical group, she tells the viewer, "I don't keep track of regrets. And I don't add up the years. But what I do count on is staying happy and healthy. So I add protein, vitamins, and minerals to my diet with Boost."

As she happily sips her chocolate drink, a voiceover tells you more. "Boost high-protein nutritional drink has 20 grams of protein, along with 26 essential vitamins and minerals your body needs." A graphic of a human body with a list of eight of these vitamins and minerals is displayed: calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, vitamin C, B vitamins, iron, zinc, and potassium.

Then comes the big finish and trademarked tagline: "All with guaranteed great taste. And now try peaches and cream natural flavor. With 27 vitamins and minerals and 10 grams of protein. Boost be up for life."

Ensure's 15-second ad takes a very different tack. Here we have animated food characters an egg, a pear, a carrot, and some broccoli hanging out together in the fridge. So adorable! An egg looks off camera and exclaims, "Wow!" A bottle of Ensure Original explains what the egg is admiring: "That's Ensure Max Protein with high protein and 1 gram of sugar." Shift to a towering bottle of Ensure Max, complete with bulging biceps, sounding like a drill sergeant shouting orders at the banana: "It's a sit-up, banana, bend at the waist."

"I'm trying!" says the banana, as it rocks back and forth on its back. "Keep it up, you'll get there," Ensure Max barks. Two bottles of Ensure high-five each other. Meanwhile, the banana falls backwards, failing to complete even a single sit-up.

A voiceover breaks in: "30 grams of protein, and 1 gram of sugar. Ensure Max Protein."

What the ads suggest

The suggestion is clear: to be healthy, you need to be drinking these supplements. A healthy diet won't suffice.

Product names deliver their own message. You can "boost" your health and "ensure" you're getting all the nutrition you need by consuming these drinks. The Boost commercial seems to target older people, implying that downing bottles of Boost regularly can help you keep up with the young folks and maintain an active, healthy, and working life well into advanced age. The Ensure commercial, meanwhile, suggests that while exercise might be a chore, at least your nutrition will be covered by this high-protein supplement drink.

What the ads don't say

The information provided in these ads and on their websites is generally accurate. People who don't get enough calories, protein, or certain minerals or vitamins could make up for what's missing by consuming these drinks. In addition, there are different versions of these products for people with diabetes or other health problems.

But these ads are missing important information. For example:

• Who benefits? Some people are far more likely than others to benefit from Ensure, Boost, or similar products. The vast majority of people can get all the nutrition they need from their diet. There's absolutely no evidence that these supplements improve health or prevent disease in people who have no specific nutritional problems, as my colleague Suzanne Salamon, MD, notes. However, if you're losing weight involuntarily and don't carry excess weight in the first place, or if you can't take in adequate nutrition, you might benefit from nutritional supplements.
• Should supplements replace meals or be added to them? The ads don't say. In fact, the advice would vary depending on the person's overall heath and diet.
• Significant calories. Regular Boost has 240 calories; Ensure Max Protein has 150 calories; original Ensure has 220 calories.
• Sugar and artificial sweetener. Regular Boost has 20 grams of added sugar. While Ensure Max Protein has only 1 gram of sugar (along with an artificial sweetener, sucralose), original Ensure has 14 grams of added sugar.
• Cost adds up. I found these products for sale online for around $2 per bottle. Depending on how many you drink each day, the cost can be significant, especially over the long term. You can get similar amounts of protein, vitamins, and minerals at far lower cost from high-protein foods (such as milk or yogurt) and a multivitamin. And, you may not need that multivitamin.
• High protein isn't for everyone. Some people should avoid high-protein diets, and therefore should not consume high-protein nutritional supplements. People with significant kidney disease are a good example.

The bottom line

The value of Boost, Ensure, or their competitors to the general population is questionable. The best way to decide if you should consume these products is to discuss your health, medical problems, and diet with your doctor. He or she may recommend that you consult with a nutritionist.

I'll leave you with some questions I find perplexing. Why would a nutritional supplement yell at a banana to do a sit-up? How can the banana bend at the waist when it has no waist? And why is the banana the only food being asked to work out? If you ask me, the pear and egg look a bit big around the middle. Perhaps the failure of the banana to do a sit-up is a metaphor for our own inability to do the work of exercise ourselves and so we need help from a nutritional drink. I'm probably overthinking this; it's likely just an eye-catching way of promoting a product. But if you understand this commercial better than I do, please let me know.

In the meantime, my advice is to choose a healthy diet (like the Mediterranean diet), get regular exercise, and don't count on nutritional drinks or the physical fitness of your fruit to keep you healthy.

Follow me on Twitter @RobShmerling

Is Nutrament Really Good for You? A Comprehensive Review

Nutrament is a popular nutritional supplement that claims to provide various benefits to the body. But is Nutrament really good for you? In this comprehensive review, we will take a closer look at the ingredients, nutrition facts, and the benefits of drinking Nutrament. We will also address some of the common questions regarding Nutraments health benefits and risks, including whether it can help with building muscle, weight loss, and if its safe to consume during pregnancy.

What is Nutrament?

Nutrament is a nutritional drink that is marketed as a complete meal replacement for those who are looking for a quick and easy way to get their daily dose of essential nutrients. While it contains a significant amount of protein, it is not strictly a protein shake.

Nutrament is also marketed as an energy drink, as it contains a blend of carbohydrates, protein, and other nutrients that may provide a boost of energy. The drink is said to provide a range of benefits, including improved muscle function, enhanced recovery, and overall health and wellness.

Nutrament Ingredients

Nutrament contains a blend of protein, vitamins, and minerals that are designed to support overall health and well-being. It is available in different flavors like vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate. The exact ingredients vary depending on the flavor but all flavors share some common ingredients such as skim milk, sugar, corn syrup, vegetable oils, artificial flavors and carrageenan.

The key ingredients that make Nutrament unique are its protein blend, which consists of calcium and sodium caseinate. Some flavors also contain soy protein isolate. These proteins are known to promote muscle growth and repair. Additionally, Nutrament contains essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, C, D, E, K, and B-complex vitamins, as well as iron, zinc, and selenium.

While there are many good ingredients in Nutrament drinks there are also some concerning ones. One potential concerning ingredient is sugar which is in the form of corn syrup and refined sugar. Consuming too much sugar daily has many downsides including weight gain, obesity and increased risk of certain diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.

However, it is important to note that Nutrament does not contain any artificial sweeteners, which may benefit some people. But it does contain artificial flavors which is another negative. There are certain health risks associated with the consumption of artificial flavors so some people like to avoid them.

Here is a full list of ingredients for two of the most popular Nutraments flavors: Vanilla and Chocolate:

Nutrament Nutrition Facts

One can of vanilla Nutrament contains the following: 360 calories, 10g of fat (13% daily value), 10mg of cholesterol, and 250mg of sodium. It also contains 52g of carbohydrates, including 29g of added sugars, and 16g of protein (32% daily intake). The chocolate flavor has almost the same nutritional profile, except it contains slightly more sugar.

Sugar content

The American Heart Association recommends no more than 25 grams (6 teaspoons) of added sugar per day for women and no more than 36 grams (9 teaspoons) for men. One can of vanilla Nutrament alone contains a staggering 29 grams of added sugar, which is already above the recommended daily intake for women and almost reaching the limit for men. The chocolate flavor, with slightly more sugar, is even more concerning in terms of sugar content.

Consuming excessive amounts of added sugar has been linked to numerous health problems, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. While Nutrament may be a convenient meal replacement option, its essential to keep in mind the high sugar content and limit consumption accordingly.

Vitamins and minerals

In addition to its macronutrient content, Nutrament also contains a variety of vitamins and minerals. One can of vanilla Nutrament provides 35% of the daily value of vitamin D, vitamin A, and vitamin E. It also provides 45% of the daily value of thiamin, niacin, and riboflavin.

Other nutrients provided by Nutrament include biotin, phosphorus, magnesium, selenium, manganese, molybdenum, calcium (350mg or 25% DV), potassium, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate (folic acid), vitamin B6, vitamin B12 (90% DV), pantothenic acid (70% DV), iodine, zinc, copper (80% DV), and chromium.

When compared to the recommended daily intake of nutrients, Nutrament is high in calories and sugar, but it also provides a significant amount of protein and several essential vitamins and minerals. The high sugar content is a potential drawback for those trying to limit their sugar intake, but the protein and nutrient content may make Nutrament a good option for individuals who struggle to meet their daily nutrient needs through whole foods alone.

Nutrament Drink Benefits

Nutrament is known to offer several potential benefits to its consumers. Here are some of the ways Nutrament can help you:

Increased Energy and Muscle Growth

Nutraments protein blend, consisting of soy protein isolate, calcium caseinate, and sodium caseinate, is known to promote muscle growth and repair. This makes Nutrament an excellent option for athletes, bodybuilders, and individuals looking to increase their muscle mass. Additionally, Nutrament contains a high amount of carbohydrates, which can provide an instant boost of energy to your body, making it a great pre-workout drink.

Meal Replacement Option

For busy individuals who dont have time to prepare a meal, Nutrament can be a convenient meal replacement option. Nutrament is high in calories, protein, and carbohydrates, making it a great source of nutrients when youre on the go.

However, its important to note that Nutrament is a liquid meal replacement and may not keep you full for very long. Unlike whole foods that contain fiber, which can help you feel fuller for longer, Nutrament lacks fiber, which means it can be processed by the body quite quickly. This can lead to feelings of hunger soon after consuming it, which may cause you to eat more than you intended.

Additionally, while Nutrament is high in protein, which can help you feel satiated, its important to remember that protein alone is not enough to keep you full. Carbohydrates and fats also play a role in satiety, and Nutrament contains a relatively high amount of sugar, which can cause a quick spike in blood sugar levels followed by a crash, leading to increased hunger and cravings.

Overall Health and Wellbeing

Nutrament contains essential vitamins and minerals that can help support your immune system and digestive health. For example, Nutrament is rich in vitamin D, which is crucial for bone health and immune function. It also contains zinc, which can help boost your immune system and aid in wound healing.

In addition to vitamin D and zinc, Nutrament also contains several other vitamins and minerals that can contribute to overall health and wellbeing. For instance, Nutrament is a good source of vitamin A, which is important for maintaining healthy skin, vision, and immune function. It also contains vitamin E, which has antioxidant properties that can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Furthermore, Nutrament is rich in B-complex vitamins, such as thiamin, niacin, folate, and biotin, which play crucial roles in energy metabolism, brain function, and cell growth and development. These vitamins are essential for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails, as well as for the proper functioning of the nervous and immune systems.

In terms of minerals, Nutrament contains calcium and potassium, which are important for maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as for proper muscle and nerve function. It also contains iron, which is crucial for transporting oxygen throughout the body and preventing anemia.

Nutraments nutritional profile also includes selenium, manganese, and molybdenum, which are trace minerals that play important roles in various bodily processes, such as antioxidant defense, bone health, and metabolism.

Is Nutrament good or bad for you?

Nutrament is a nutrition supplement drink that contains valuable vitamins and minerals and high amounts of protein, which can be beneficial for some people. However, Nutrament is also high in sugar, with one can of vanilla Nutrament alone containing 29 grams of added sugar, which is already above the recommended daily intake for women and almost reaching the limit for men. So, while consuming Nutrament offers certain benefits, overall, the drink is not considered to be healthy as it has too much sugar.

Instead of Nutrament, you may want to consider other options that can provide similar benefits. Some options include protein shakes made with low-sugar or no-sugar protein powder, smoothies made with fruits and vegetables, or plain low-fat or non-fat milk. These alternatives can provide protein, vitamins, and minerals without the excess sugar found in Nutrament.

FAQs

Is Nutrament good for weight loss?

While Nutrament can serve as a meal replacement, it is not specifically designed as a weight loss product. Consuming Nutrament in moderation as part of a balanced diet and exercise regimen can contribute to weight loss if it results in a calorie deficit. However, relying solely on Nutrament for weight loss is unlikely to be effective due to its high calorie and sugar content, as well as its lack of fiber which can help you feel full for longer.

To achieve weight loss goals, its recommended to focus on whole, unprocessed foods that are rich in protein and fiber and low in sugar. Overconsumption of Nutrament can lead to weight gain, so its best to use it in moderation and in combination with other healthy foods and lifestyle habits.

Is Nutrament fattening?

Nutrament can be fattening if consumed in excess due to its high sugar content. One can of vanilla Nutrament alone contains 29 grams of added sugar, which is already above the recommended daily intake for women and almost reaching the limit for men.

Is Nutrament good for diabetics?

Nutrament is not recommended for diabetics due to its high sugar content. Consuming too much sugar can cause blood sugar levels to spike, which can be harmful for people with diabetes.

Can toddlers drink Nutrament?

Nutrament is not a drink designed for young children so you should never give it to your toddler. If you still want to give it to your toddler, consult with a pediatrician first.

Is Nutrament good to drink while pregnant?

It is recommended to consult a doctor before consuming Nutrament or any other supplement drink while pregnant. Nutrament contains high amounts of sugar, and consuming excessive amounts of sugar during pregnancy can lead to health problems for both the mother and the baby.

Additionally, Nutrament contains vitamin A, and high levels of vitamin A consumption during pregnancy can be harmful to the developing fetus, as it can cause birth defects. However, one serving of Nutrament contains 35% of the daily recommended value of vitamin A, which is not necessarily harmful in itself, but it should still be taken into account when considering the overall nutrient intake during pregnancy.

Does Nutrament give you energy?

Nutrament is not an energy drink but it does contain carbohydrates and B vitamins which can provide energy. Carbohydrates are converted into glucose and then used by the body as a primary source of energy while B vitamins play a crucial role in converting carbohydrates into energy.

However, its important to note that while Nutrament can provide a quick boost of energy, its high sugar content can also cause energy crashes and is not recommended for sustained energy.

What does Nutrament do to your body?

Nutrament provides vitamins, minerals, protein, and calories to the body. However, excessive consumption of Nutrament or any supplement drink can have negative health effects due to its high sugar content.

Does Nutrament have caffeine?

No, Nutrament does not contain caffeine.

How many Nutraments to drink a day?

The number of Nutraments to drink per day depends on various factors such as your age, gender, weight, activity level, and overall health status. However, it is generally recommended to consume Nutrament or any supplement drink in moderation, as these products should not replace whole foods in your diet.

While Nutrament contains essential vitamins, minerals, and protein, it is important to remember that it is not a complete substitute for a balanced and varied diet. It is always recommended to speak with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for personalized advice on whether Nutrament is a suitable addition to your diet, and how much you should consume based on your individual needs and goals.

In addition, it is important to note that excessive consumption of Nutrament or any similar supplement drink may lead to a higher intake of certain nutrients or calories, which can have negative effects on your health in the long run. Therefore, it is essential to use these products in moderation and as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

Nutrament vs Ensure: Which is better?

Ensure Protein Max may be a better choice for individuals looking for a high-protein, low-sugar supplement drink. With 30g of protein, only 1g of sugar, and 27 vitamins and minerals, it provides a balanced and nutritious option. However, it should be noted that this product contains artificial sweeteners, which may be a concern for some individuals.

On the other hand, Nutrament contains 16g of protein, 29g of added sugar, and 30 vitamins and minerals, with a higher calorie count of 360 per serving. While Nutrament does provide a good amount of nutrients, its high sugar content may not be ideal for those looking for a low-sugar option.