Meal replacements are designed to replace two meals, and one or two snacks, which enables you to consume fewer calories than you burn and so lose weight. The products are said to give people a simple and structured, calorie and portion controlled eating pattern, making them easier to follow than diets with a wider range of food choice. Examples of products in the UK are Slimfast, Boots Nutraslim and Tesco’s own brand. There have been some published studies, which show that proper use of meal replacements along with regular support, can provide a nutritionally balanced diet and help people lose, and keep off a healthy 5-10% of their weight. They may not be for everyone but are a useful option.