What is the calorie threshold for reduced calorie meal replacements?

The calorie threshold for reduced calorie meal replacements is defined as being below 200 kcal. This standard helps ensure that these meal replacements are sufficiently low in calories to facilitate weight loss while providing essential nutrients. Meal replacements are often used in structured weight loss programs as they can provide a convenient and controlled way to manage caloric intake.

The rationale behind setting this threshold at below 200 kcal is to strike a balance between offering a portion that is low enough to promote weight loss while also being substantial enough to serve as a meal substitute. A meal replacement in this calorie range can typically provide adequate protein and vitamins and minerals needed for balanced nutrition, thus supporting individuals in their weight management goals.

In contrast, higher calorie thresholds can lead to increased caloric intake, counteracting the purpose of using meal replacements for weight loss. Therefore, maintaining a standard of below 200 kcal is critical in the context of developing effective dietary interventions for obesity management.