Are you struggling to decide between Shakeology and Arbonne for your meal replacement shake needs? With the wellness industry booming, it’s no surprise that you’re caught in a dilemma, trying to sift through the myriad of options to find the best meal shake. Both Shakeology and Arbonne have their loyal followers, each boasting a unique blend of nutrients aimed at boosting your health and energy levels and potentially aiding in weight loss. But when it comes down to it, which one truly stands out?
In this comparison, we are about to explore what makes each product tick, from its nutritional content to its taste and overall value. Our aim is to arm you with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision. Whether it’s Shakeology, Arbonne, or perhaps an alternative you haven’t yet considered, let’s discover together which meal replacement shake reigns supreme for your health and wellness goals.

Comparing Top Meal Replacement Brands for Weight Loss Success
Very few people find cooking relaxing. As a matter of fact, most find the process of putting a meal together stressful, expensive, and time-consuming. They aren’t all in the wrong though. We have been taught since school that eating right is key to good health. And this is true. Three balanced meals a day would ensure that your body has a steady supply of essential macro and micro-nutrients which allows the body to function optimally and stay healthy. However, balanced meals take time, and not just to prepare.
Mass production means that we now have enough but nutritionally subpar food. Bigger heads of lettuce no longer directly translate to nutrient-rich food. For healthier options, one must visit a farmer’s market for fresh produce, which inevitably costs more.
However, buying the food is just one part of the process. The cooking process is equally taxing: which oil or fat to use, boil, braise, or stir-fry, how long to cook, which protein to add, etc. The time and patience that need to be invested in cooking are an ask, and not many have those luxuries. This would explain why meal replacement shakes have become such a hit.
Meal replacement shakes have become a godsend for those who wish to eat healthy but do not have the time or convenience to prepare elaborate meals. Most brands are affordable, contain essential nutrients, and are easy to prepare. But what makes them more popular is that there are plenty of choices to choose from – vegan-friendly or whey protein sources, more protein or less, extensive flavor profiles, shakes for various needs like weight loss or gain, and even price ranges. This means that there is a shake for everyone out there.
However, not all meal replacements are made the same. Some brands do it for profit while others release products that actually care about your health and well-being. So, are you struggling to differentiate between them in any way?
If that’s the case, we’re here to help simplify your decision-making. We’ll compare some popular brands for you to check which would be the best and how they would perform for a particular need, like weight loss. So, let’s jump right in!
Shakeology, Arbonne & PhenQ: A Brief Introduction
Shakeology

Shakeology from Team Beachbody is the meal replacement branch of the lifestyle brand. Shakeology is built on the principle of healthy living and providing the customer with flavorful options for food. Formulated to help the user get and stay fit, Shakeology shakes are popular as they come with a lifestyle brand value that many companies fail to cash in on. Perhaps the biggest selling point for the brand is the fact that it made vegan and whey versions of all their shakes which opened the market to them.
Shakeology uses a wide range of natural and mostly organic ingredients, promising the user weight management, digestive health, immune system support, and even muscle growth. A possible downside to the shake is that Team Beachbody is a multi-level marketing business which puts a few customers off.
But if you are looking solely at the quality of the product, Team Beachbody Shakeology shakes are considered to be good meal replacements. For this review, we shall be looking at the Vanilla Whey Shake.
Macronutrients per serving information of Vanilla Whey Shakeology: Calories 140, Carbs 15g, Protein 17g, Fat 2g, Fiber 6g and Sugar 7g.
Arbonne

Arbonne is a brand that advocates healthy and sustainable living for people and the planet as well. The company has a range of products that includes nutrition, skincare, makeup, and even healthy living plans. In nutrition alone, Arbonne offers protein shakes, energy drinks, detox concoctions, and options for gut and immune support.
The Arbonne Essential Meal range, which can be found in the ‘weight management’ section, is the one that pertains to meal replacement shakes. Arbonne takes the meal replacement game a step further and markets the shake as a ‘Meal Replacement Protein Shake’. Technically, the shake can double up as a meal replacement and a protein powder at the same time. Promising users with lean muscle growth, a protein boost, and extended fullness, Arbonne claims to be the ultimate offering in healthy, vegan, and sustainable nutrition.
If you are new to the Arbonne culture, you would find terms like ‘ArboneeCycle’ and ‘ReplenishMe,’ which tend to confuse newer customers. It takes some digging around on the official website to find the meaning of these terms and what they signify. Arbonne is also an MLM (multi-level marketing) brand.
Macronutrients per serving information of Arbonne EssentialMeal: Calories 200, Carbs 9g, Protein 24g, Fat 7g, Fiber 2g and Sugar 7g.
PhenQ Complete Meal – The Better Shakeology and Arbonne Alternative

PhenQ Complete Meal Shake is part of a complete weight loss and management system. The system includes:
- PhenQ weight loss pills – Read More.
- PhenQ PM – a nighttime fat burner – Read More.
- And lastly, the PhenQ Complete Meal Replacement Shake – Read More.
*Note: But it’s important that you know that, even though the shake works better with the pills, you can still use the shake alone with your diet plan.
The PhenQ’s Complete Meal Shake is designed to help the body naturally shed extra pounds by supporting the body’s natural weight loss system. Unlike Team Beachbody and Arbonne, PhenQ is not a blanket supplement brand. Instead, it is a brand created exclusively to help you lose weight.
Comparatively, the nutrition label for the PhenQ shake is minimal but makes up for the fewer inclusions by ensuring that the ingredients are doubly potent and attuned to helping your body’s natural fat-burning systems. PhenQ targets AMP-activated protein kinase, or AMPK, which is an enzyme that hones in excess fat and breaks it down to use as fuel.
Age and stress can slow the enzyme’s action, and PhenQ’s system works to re-ignite the fat-loss machine while also curbing cravings, increasing energy production for exercise, and supporting muscle mass growth.
Macronutrient per serving information of PhenQ Complete Meal Shake (Vanilla Flavor): Calories 190, Carbs 22g, Protein 17g, Fat 3g, Fiber 4g and Sugar 2g.
Get PhenQ Meal Shake with an Unbeatable Offer. Limited Time Only! Click to visit Official Website.
What Benefits Do These Shakes Claim to Provide?
Before we list the promises made by these brands, it is essential to know that meal replacement shakes do not yield results overnight. Their performance would be greatly affected by your dietary habits, lifestyle, exercise patterns, and other supplements you may be taking. For optimum results, a healthy diet, good exercise, and restricted alcohol intake are ideal. Also, using too much of the shake is not the best idea. A meal replacement shake is usually meant to replace only one meal a day; preferably the heaviest one you have. Unless instructed otherwise, you should only replace one meal. The shakes may be reinforced with nutrients but they do not cover your entire day’s requirement. Surviving only on meal replacements to lose weight faster may prove counterproductive.
As expected, Shakeology, Arbonne, and PhenQ, all provide a list of great things they can do for your weight loss journey. Whether they can or otherwise, we will check in a bit. But for now, here is what the official websites claim that respective products can do.
Team Beachbody Shakeology | Arbonne Essentials Meal Replacement Protein Shake | PhenQ Complete Meal Shake |
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How Do These Meal Replacement Shakes Promote Weight Management?
Buyers frequently pick up on the pattern in the formulas used for meal replacements. The easier it is to read the nutrition label, the quicker it is to buy. Simply put, if customers do not have to google the names of ingredients, the easier it is to fly off the shelves. Many brands have taken to simplifying or explaining their inclusions so that customers understand what it is that they are consuming. And this seems to work. The length of the ingredients list does not matter as long as the everyday Jane and John can understand it. Shakeology and PhenQ Meal Shake have used this knowledge to their advantage but Arbonne has not quite caught on. Let us explain.
The Shakeology Recipe
Shakeology adopts a pretty smart approach to its shakes, by including food ingredients that people recognize and know, furthermore, they also include a few natural and organic ingredients, ensure that vital facets of health are addressed, and provide a wide range of flavors. To increase appeal, Shakeology has the same range of flavors for both whey and vegan options, ensuring that no one feels left out. The nutritional information is impressive too.
Per serving, you get a healthy dose of vitamins such as A, C, D, E, K2, and B complex vitamins. The mineral contributions include calcium, iron, iodine, magnesium, zinc, selenium, chromium, potassium, and sodium. To provide such impressive nutrition, Shakeology includes quite a few components that are grouped into proprietary blends. They are as follows.
Proprietary Protein Blend
Because we are looking at the whey option, this Shakeology shake contains whey protein; the vegan shake excludes this component. In addition to whey, the powder includes pea protein, quinoa, and flax seeds. The blend acts as a source of essential amino acids for muscle repair and building while also ensuring that you feel fuller for longer.
Proprietary Superfruit / Antioxidant Blend
A potent blend of superfoods with strong antioxidant action, this group of ingredients includes Camu-Camu, acerola cherry, Lycium berry or Goji berry, Luo Han Guo, bilberry, pomegranate, blueberry, rose hips and vitamins A, C, and E. These components reduce free radical damage and also bolster the immune system. The blend is also where most of the vitamins and minerals come from.
Proprietary Super-green / Phytonutrient Blend
With inclusions like matcha green tea, chlorella, kale, and spinach, Shakeology provides a healthy dose of phytonutrients. These nutrients help with several physiological functions like maintaining hormone and neurotransmitter production, gut health, cell health, and blood circulation.
Proprietary Adaptogen Blend
Adaptogens are natural herbs that help the body to effectively deal with physical or mental stress. Most of these herbs have been used in traditional medicinal cultures. This group comprises of ashwagandha, astragalus, cordyceps, maca, maitake, reishi, Schisandra, and Chaga mushrooms. In addition to being adaptogens, they also have many other benefits.
Proprietary Pre – & Probiotic / Digestive Enzymes Blend
The gastrointestinal system has to be in good working conditions to help the body gain maximum benefits from real food. For this, Shakeology includes chicory and yacon root, which act as prebiotics. With bacillus coagulans, the shake adds probiotics to the mix, and amylase, cellulase, lactase, glucoamylase, alpha-galactosidase, and invertase provide the stomach with additional digestive enzymes to support the digestive process.

The Arbonne Recipe
The Arbonne meal replacement shake is largely based on the Arbonne protein shake range. This is mostly because the brand’s protein powders have been a great hit in the past. Keeping in mind that protein content is what sells, Arbonne decided to create a protein meal replacement shake. Arbonne is 100% plant-based, gluten-free, non-GMO and halal.
Each serving would give you a healthy dose of vitamins A, C, vitamin D, and B complex and also minerals calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorus, iodine, magnesium, zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, chromium, and molybdenum. While the brand claims to have bio-based components, some questionable ingredients do draw attention. Most reviews for the Arbonne shake mention a few ingredients that should not be in a brand that claims to be sustainable and planet and health-friendly. The ingredients used here are as follows.
Arbonne Protein Matrix Blend
Because protein quality is quite a big deal for Arbonne, you would find pea protein isolate, hemp seed protein, pumpkin seed protein, quinoa protein, and rice protein. With 24g of protein per serving, the multiple inclusions are forgivable. The website claims that these protein sources would help keep you sated for longer while also helping lean muscle growth.
Modified Tapioca Starch & UV-treated mushrooms are the two most discussed ingredients. The term ‘modified’ does not sit right with many. There is no explanation as to how the starch is modified which leaves a bad taste. UV treatment of mushrooms sounds just as suspicious. Considering that a large percentage of possible customers would react to the term UV-treated unfavorably, an explanation of the ingredient would have been a smart move, which is clearly missing.
Other ingredients are Rice hulls and Chicory root which could act as prebiotic fiber, Cane sugar as the sugar source, Avocado oil for a dose of healthy fats, natural flavors, Xanthan gum and Guar gum for keeping the integrity of the product, and Steviol glycosides.
Every other inclusion mentioned on the supplement label is vitamin and mineral sources like beta carotene and potassium chloride. As a sustainable shake, this is disappointing as most would expect to see some whole foods on the list. When compared with Shakeology, Arbonne doesn’t stand up very well. For all the hype, the Arbonne shake disappoints.

The PhenQ Complete Meal Shake Recipe
As we mentioned earlier on, PhenQ has the scantiest ingredients list. This is not necessarily a bad thing. While some may claim that the Shakeology formula is too busy and the Arbonne recipe to be questionable, PhenQ Meal Shake keeps its inclusions few and of value.
The goal here is simple – weight management. And to that end, PhenQ adds only a few components that can keep your cravings away, and your blood sugar in check, and leave you with enough energy to get you through your day and gym routine. Each shake supplies your body with vitamins A, C, D, E, K, and B complex, which is the Vegetarian Micronutrient Blend, and only sodium as a mineral contribution which helps with keeping the body hydrated. The formula includes the following.
Gluten-Free Oat Flour
Oat flour is a healthier alternative to wheat flour as it is a complex carbohydrate that moves through the digestive tract slowly, leaving you feeling fuller for longer. It also acts nutrition for the good bacteria in the gut and keeps spikes in blood sugar under control.
Also, studies indicate oat beta-glucans lower cholesterol and improve metabolic health (Rebello et al., Nutrition Reviews, 2016).
Carb10™
A supplement on its own, Carb10™ is a pea starch derivative that absorbs other carbs consumed during other meals and prevents blood sugar spikes. The pea starch promotes healthy digestion as well.
Whey Protein Concentrate
Rich in nine essential amino acids, whey protein enhances protein synthesis for muscle building, maintenance, and repair. The amino acids present in whey protein also contribute to neurotransmitter manufacture, brain health, cognitive function, and neural communication and even promote satiety.
Studies like Baer et al. (2011) in “The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition” confirm its effectiveness in reducing hunger.
Flaxseed Powder
A superfood, flaxseed is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, dietary fiber, and healthy carbs. An integral player in keeping type 2 diabetes and obesity in check, flaxseeds are anti-inflammatory as well.
Studies like Goyal et al., 2014 (BioMed Research International) highlight its beneficial properties.
Digezyme™ Enzyme Complex.
Another multi-enzyme complex reinforced with alpha-amylase, protease, lipase, cellulase, and lactase, all of which are essential to digestive health, Digezyme supports healthy digestion, nutrient absorption, and the optimal breakdown of fat, proteins, and carbs. This ingredient works throughout the day even for the other meals you eat.
Studies from the “Journal of the American College of Nutrition” indicate its effectiveness in improving digestive health.
Even though Shakeology, Arbonne, and PhenQ Complete Meal Shake have tested their products for efficacy and safety, there is always a risk of allergies. So, before you start the use of these or any natural supplements, you must seek professional medical advice. This is especially pertinent if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or suffering from a pre-existing medical condition for which you take prescription medication. Also, meal replacement shakes are not meant for children unless recommended by a physician.

Where Can You Buy Shakeology, Arbonne & PhenQ?
The best way to buy natural supplements is to get them directly from the brands. This would ensure the quality of the product and, in case you are dissatisfied with your purchase, refunds or exchanges would be a lot easier.
Buy Shakeology
Shakeology is an MLM company, which means that you must get in touch with a seller in your area. Once that is done, you can buy a monthly supply of Shakeology for $129.95.
You can choose between a 30-serving bag or 24-single serve packets. Shipping and handling would cost extra. Apart from the vegan and whey protein options, you also have six flavor options. Returns and refunds are subject to company discretion.
Buy Arbonne Essential Meal Replacement Protein Shake
Arbonne Essential Meal Replacement Protein Shake can be bought from Amazon or its official site. A 30-serving bag would cost $104.00. If you choose to become a Preferred Client, the price of the shake will drop to $83.20.
Available in chocolate and vanilla flavors, the brand also offers a subscription scheme where you get extra benefits and gifts. Shipping costs extra. Arbonne furnishes a 90-day money-back guarantee and you should get in touch with the independent consultant from whom you bought the shake.
Buy PhenQ Complete Meal Shake
PhenQ Complete Meal Shake can be bought from PhenQ’s official website, click now. A bag of 14 servings would cost $64.99. The more you buy at once, the greater the savings. 2 bags would grant you a 10% discount on your purchase and 3 bags would get you a 15%.
Free shipping is available for all purchases. Also, if you choose to subscribe, you stand to save 20% on your purchases. You also get instant access to the newsletter and e-guides. PhenQ also offers a 60-day money-back guarantee on all PhenQ products.
So, Which is the Best Shake for Weight Loss?
To be honest, adding a meal replacement shake to your everyday diet is a good idea. You get a healthy dose of essential nutrients without consuming too many calories. So, if you are on a diet, a meal replacement can only help your weight loss efforts. That being said, if weight loss is the goal, you might as well choose a product that is designed to do just that like PhenQ.
Shakeology and Arbonne are not bad products. Far from it, they are good shakes that provide you with healthy nutrition without artificial flavors, colors, or artificial sweeteners. However, there are some subtle issues with them. For example, Shakeology and Arbonne cannot facilitate weight loss on their own. Arbonne even mentions this on the website, stating that the shake can help maintain weight once you have lost it. The same can be presumed with Shakeology. While Shakeology focuses on overall health and nutrition, Arbonne concentrates on how much protein you should pump into your body. While both have their advantages, they cannot actively help your body lose the extra pounds.
PhenQ Complete Meal Shake was formulated to push your body into becoming a fat-burning machine. Even if you do not use the shake in tandem with the fat burner pills, the shake’s recipe is designed to get the AMPK system back on track helping your body burn stored fat as an alternate source of energy. This ensures that you are fueled throughout the day despite being on a calorie-deficit diet and you would have the energy to go through with your exercise routine without thinking about food the whole time. So, PhenQ hands down is a much smarter option, if what you want to do is lose weight.

To give you a clearer idea of how different the three products are, here is a quick look at everything we know about them.
Team Beachbody Shakeology | Arbonne Essentials Meal Replacement Protein Shake | PhenQ Complete Meal Shake | |
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Purpose | Formulated to fulfill nutritional gaps. | Support health & recovery through extra protein intake. | Increase fat-burning capacity of the body. |
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USP | Overall health & nutrition. | Increased protein content. | Targeted weight loss. |
How to use | 1 scoop of the powder blended with water & or any beverage of your choice. Use once a day. | 1/3 cup of powder to 9 fl. oz. of cold water. Use once a day. | Add 1 scoop to 10 to 14oz of semi-skimmed milk, milk alternative, or water. Use once a day. |
Price | $129.95 per bag. | $104.00 per bag. | $64.99 per bag. |
Refund Policy | No standing refund policy. | 90-day money-back guarantee. | 60-day money-back guarantee. |
Summary & Verdict
Meal replacement shakes are a reliable way to manage your weight. Depending on the shake you choose, you could also benefit in several other ways. We compared Shakeology and Arbonne and then weighed them against PhenQ Meal Shake to see which would benefit you most in terms of weight loss and found that the third option is best for weight management (as one usually settles for a meal replacement because of its weight loss benefits).
Not only is PhenQ a brand dedicated to fat burning and weight management, but PhenQ’s Complete Meal Shake is designed to help the body use stored fat as an alternative source of energy. This allows the body to have a constant source of high energy even if you are on a calorie-deficit diet. PhenQ is the way to go if weight loss is on your agenda.