By Mark, 10 July 2025
I’m the guy who used to skip breakfast for black coffee—then wondered why I felt flat in the gym. These four shakes solved that and kept the fat coming off.
What I Look For
- ≥ 25 g protein to protect muscle
- ≤ 450 kcal so a deficit stays a deficit
- Full vitamin/mineral spread to plug dietary gaps
- Mixes with water—extra hydration, zero milk calories
The Shortlist
| Category | Protein | Calories | Per-Serving Cost* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget – Myprotein Meal Replacement Blend | 17 g | 200 kcal | ~ £1.10 |
| All-Rounder – PhD Diet Whey Meal | 26 g | 210 kcal | ~ £1.64 |
| Premium – Huel Black Edition | 40 g | 400 kcal | ~ £2.40 |
| Mark’s Favourite – SCI-MX Diet Shake | 26 g | 209 kcal | ~ £1.60 |
*Live Amazon UK prices on 10 July 2025.
⚖️ All-Rounder – PhD Diet Whey Meal
PhD Diet Whey Meal, Double Chocolate
Why I like it: 26 g protein, < 210 kcal, 18 g low-GI carbs, plus L-Carnitine and matcha for a gentle metabolic nudge. Ideal as a quick breakfast or a late-afternoon “keep-me-out-of-the-biscuit-tin” snack.
Heads-up: Slightly thicker than a whey isolate—add 50 ml extra water if you prefer it lighter.
🏆 Budget Pick – Myprotein Meal Replacement Blend
Myprotein Meal Replacement Blend, Salted Caramel
17 g protein, 200 kcal, full B-vit hit. Tastes like melted Werther’s. Add a half-scoop of plain whey on heavy lifting days.
💎 Premium Pick – Huel Black Edition
Huel Black Edition, Chocolate
40 g vegan protein, 27 vits & mins, lower-carb. Chocolate is less gritty than old-school Huel.
⭐ Mark’s Favourite – SCI-MX Diet Shake (Chocolate)
SCI-MX Diet Shake
26 g protein, 209 kcal, 24 micronutrients. Legit tastes like a melted brownie.
7-Day “One-Shake-Swap” Challenge
| Day | Breakfast | Lunch |
|---|---|---|
| 1-3 | Budget | All-Rounder |
| 4-5 | Budget | Premium |
| 6-7 | Favourite | All-Rounder |
Each shake = ~300 ml water, so you effortlessly tick off ~4 litres across the week.
Final Word
Meal replacements aren’t magic—but they’re portion-controlled, nutrient-dense, and force you to drink more water. Pick the flavour that makes you look forward to the next sip, and let consistency do the work.
Transparency:
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases (tag markweb05-21). Prices and macros verified 10 July 2025.
Not medical advice—consult your GP or a registered dietitian if you have health conditions.