Honest Shakeology Review [What You Need to Know]

Our Shakeology review comes after our own research of the meal replacement shake and our personal experience. Find out if the super foods, probiotics shake really helped our digestion, cravings, and weight loss before you decide to try it!

My mom and I tried each flavor of shakes for this detailed Shakeology review to let you know about the taste, ingredients, cost per month, recipes, and benefits. (Updated May 2020)

What is Shakeology?

Shakeology is nutrient-dense protein shake made up of whole foods, phytonutrients, antioxidants, enzymes, prebiotics and probiotics, fiber, adaptogens, vitamins, and minerals. These ingredients help fuel your body and have been linked to higher energy, less cravings, and better digestion.

The shake is made by Beachbody and includes several different flavors in both whey and vegan (pea-protein) options.

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Is it like other shakes?

For me, there was no comparison.

I started drinking Slim Fast my senior year of high school in some unhealthy attempt to look amazing in a prom dress. Smart.

It wasn’t until my digestion and energy were so terrible that I gave up my bad habits of protein shakes and bars, and found Shakeology.

I reviewed product after product to find the best on-the-go, easy and healthy option, and this takes the cake.

Does Shakeology help with weight loss?

Shakeology can help you start to eat better, but overall, it’s just one tool of many that you’ll need to use to lose weight.

We recommend choosing a Beachbody workout and following either the 2B Mindset or Ultimate Portion Fix to see weight loss results.

Is there a Shakeology Diet?

No, there isn’t a Shakeology diet. It’s just designed to be a meal replacement filled with superfoods.

You’d want to add it into a healthy, balanced diet like the 2B Mindset or Ultimate Portion Fix.

Why Did I Start Drinking Shakeology?

I have always had stomach issues. I was diagnosed with IBS-C at 13. It was such an embarrassing problem, and the prescription I was on was expensive and had some pretty scary possible side effects.

By 19, I had noticed eating certain foods helped my digestion. At that time, I was commuting to college and also working. I didn’t have time to prep my food or the desire to carry it on public transportation all day long. So I needed something healthy and easy to go.

I was doing ChaLEAN Extreme from Beachbody and heard about Shakeology that way. It was described to help digestion, weight loss, and energy. After some research, I decided to try it. At 180 calories and full of vitamins, I saved up and bought the chocolate.

Within 3 months of nothing else in my diet changing, I saw a huge difference in my digestion.

It’s not going to make you rush to the bathroom or a “Detox” or anything – but it did help my digestion get regular. Also, I know people that have regular IBS or similar problems have said it helps them NOT have to rush to the bathroom and has helped them become regular as well.

Ten years later, I still drink my shake every day. I usually have it for breakfast or lunch, and I mix up my flavors from getting bored.

Here’s a Sample Day of What I Eat

• Breakfast: Vanilla Shakeology blended with 1/2 of a banana, 1/2 cup almond milk, one tablespoon of peanut butter
• Snack: Avocado toast with almonds
• Lunch: Chicken and black bean burrito bowl
• Dinner: Chicken breast with fresh zucchini 
• Dessert: Chocolate protein mug cake

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Why Shakeology instead of another meal replacement?

As I was looking for quick, healthy options, I noticed a lot of added sugars added to other shakes or bars. I ate so many Luna or Odwalla bars, and I always paid for it after. The maltodextrin and a few other ingredients are lab-created, and they tore my stomach up.

Most of the competing shakes either had the same additives as the bars that upset my stomach, or they had added sugars.

If they didn’t have those ingredients, they were missing the probiotics or vitamins that Shakeology had in them.

I also was able to stop taking a probiotic and vitamin once I got on Shakeology which saved me a little bit of money as well.

Does Shakeology Work?

 In short, yes, but you can’t expect a shake (any shake) to completely undo bad habits.

If you’re not eating healthy or you’re eating more calories than you are burning, you won’t physically see a difference.

Also, if you’re eating junk the rest of the day, you’ll never really know if it’s helping your digestion, energy, or cravings.

It’s a good shake, but it’s not some miracle drug or something.

7 Reasons Why Shakeology Works

1. Saves you time on meal prep

If you’re like me, you struggle with your diet because of the time it takes to plan and prep your food. Sometimes I even struggle to just find the time to eat. Shakeology can save you the mental angst of having to cook yet another chicken breast with veggies.

2. It’s a nutrient-dense snack or meal

Seriously are you getting Maca Root in during any of other meal? Along with those powerful ingredients, Shakeology contains essential amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and more than 20 different antioxidants, enzymes, and phytonutrients.

3. It’s convenient & better for you than fast food.

While you can’t eat terribly all the time and still feel good in my opinion, Shakeology can help combat some of that crap we put in our bodies. The power foods and probiotics can help aid in a detox-ing effect in the body. That doesn’t mean you’re going to be running to the bathroom either. It’s just like eating a big yummy salad with nutrient-dense toppings.

4. It promotes weight loss.

This is kind of two-fold. Anytime you replace a meal with a shake that is under 200 calories, you’ll lose weight. That’s why junk-diets like Special K can work for people, but it’s not a healthy diet.  

I was hesitant to give up my lunch because I’m HANGRY by noon. That was 10 years ago! After just my first shake, I can tell you it keeps you full, and since it’s an easy meal to make, I don’t find myself grazing as much anymore.

5. It improves digestion.

I’ve always struggled with IBS-C and digestion/belly issues. At age 9 I had cyclic vomiting syndrome and put on a strict, bland diet. At 12 or so I outgrew puking on a 2-week cycle, but my IBS-C kicked in with full force.

From 12 to 22, I struggled with my digestion.

As sick as it sounds, if I hadn’t “went” in a week, I would get Sonic. It was the only thing that I knew would make me go. Sick…I know.

When I was a teenager, I was put on Zelnorm, an IBS drug. After medical complications (not my own), the product was pulled from the market. That was scary! So I chose to try to deal with it without drugs and with my diet, but it was still a major struggle.

That lasted a couple of years though until I finally got tired of looking at my pot-belly at night when it always was worse. I went to a specialist who told me to take Miralax. I did, but I got ADDICTED to it. One of my blog friends did too – read her story here! Scary stuff!

So after getting so addicted that I literally took a few caps of it then puking because I couldn’t get anything out….I started Shakeology and probiotics.

If only I had known before! I will still have flare-ups, especially on and around trips, but Shakeology has really helped get that all down to a system.

(Legal stuff..Beachbody does not claim that it will lower your cholesterol or cure IBS…these are just our personal experiences.)

6. We saw improvements in our cholesterol.

Since I was in LOVE with this stuff, my mom started drinking it, too. We do everything together after all. As a teacher, you had to have your blood drawn for insurance each year.  She always had borderline cholesterol even though we eat a pretty clean diet.

Well, the year we started drinking Shakeology daily, she went to test her blood work again 3 months later. The doctor said her cholesterol was perfect! 

(Legal stuff..Beachbody does not claim that it will lower your cholesterol or cure IBS…these are just our personal experiences.)

7. It helped our ability to focus.

I’m not sure Shakeology helps me focus. I guess compared to eating a Thanksgiving dinner or something, but I’m not sure if I feel more focused on drinking Shakeology then any other healthy meal.

Too bad though.

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What is the Difference in Vegan Shakeology and Regular Shakeology?

The vegan formula is made of a pea protein which is supposed to be easier on the stomach for some, and it’s also vegan-friendly. The regular Shakeology is whey based. I have tried and currently use both flavors. The whey flavors are a little more creamy than the vegan option. Otherwise, they are about the same.

Is Vegan Shakeology chalky or gritty?

Besides the small changes in Vegan Shakeology’s ingredients, the other noticeable difference is the taste. The pea protein changes the texture to be a little less smooth. I usually mix it with more ice or nut butter, and that cuts down any chalky-texture.

What’s in Shakeology?

Shakeology contains a blend of proteins – either whey or pea protein – along with vitamins, herbs, antioxidants, probiotics and digestive enzymes. It also has blends of super foods including kale, chlorella, goji berry, and pomegranate.

Shakeology Ingredients

One thing that kills me is when someone will say Shakeology shake is just another protein supplement.

It just isn’t a fair comparison when you look at Shakeology’s nutrition facts.

I know that if it can help my bowels get going and my mom’s cholesterol down – there is no stopping this stuff.

(Legal stuff..Beachbody does not claim that it will lower your cholesterol or cure IBS…these are just our personal experiences.)

The other reason is that I know how un-filling a protein shake is and how it can bloat my belly. We need high-quality ingredients and balance to our diet no matter if we’re drinking a shake or eating a full meal.

4 Main Shakeology Ingredients

Isolated whey protein

It does have protein in it, but your body needs protein. As we age, our muscle mass declines. The easily-absorbed protein helps to build and maintain muscle mass, and if you’re working out, it can help with soreness. I personally use an additional supplement after my strength workouts though.

Blood sugar is also steady due to this ingredient which also helps us feel full and reduce cravings. The protein also contains essential amino acids, which are responsible for the increased cognitive focus. The protein in Shakeology also is antibiotic and BST free.

Phytonutrients

Phytonutrients have antioxidant properties. Just like our skin, we need to be able to fight free radical damage and promote a healthy immune system. These nutrients help combat degenerative conditions because of the antioxidants.

Prebiotic’s & Digestive Enzymes

We’ve all heard about pre and probiotics and how they are the good bacteria in our guts. This is why I think I have had such a good reaction to Shakeology.

23 vitamins and minerals

While I aim to get my vitamins and minerals through foods, this is a great way to get a quality-grade supplement. Even if you’re eating well the rest of the day, due to the processing of our foods, we may not get all of the nutrition from it. This is just a way to help us get the proper nutrition our body craves.

Is Shakeology Gluten Free?

From Beachbody:

Shakeology is not certified gluten-free. Although Shakeology is made with gluten-free ingredients, all Shakeology formulas are in a manufacturing facility that also processes known allergens such as soy, milk, egg, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts and wheat (gluten) ingredients. While our manufacturing procedures follows strict, required FDA Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), which include immediate cleaning and breaking down of equipment after every production batch and proper air filtration systems as precautionary measures, the possibility of cross-contamination can never be 100% eliminated, therefore we are required by the FDA, to include a warning that addresses this.

Individuals with gluten concerns should consult with their doctors before consuming any supplements.

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What does Shakeology Taste Like?

Keep in mind – that this shake contains a ton of high-quality nutrient-dense foods.

It doesn’t taste bad, but don’t expect it to taste like a cookies and cream bar or cake either.

Out of the flavors of Shakeology, Chocolate is my favorite.

Using a blender, playing with recipes and consistency, and drinking it in a shaker cup has helped me look forward to my shake every day for 10 years!

View 61 Incredible Shakeology Recipes for Every Flavor

Shakeology Flavors

There are 4 year-round Shakeology flavors:

• Chocolate (Whey or Vegan)
• Vanilla (Whey or Vegan)
• Strawberry (Whey) or Tropical Strawberry (Vegan)
• Cafe Latte (Whey or Vegan)
• Greenberry (Whey)

Peppermint Mocha and Pumpkin Spice are also seasonal Shakeology flavors.

Do a Shake Tasting! Get a sampler of the most popular flavors 

Our favorite Shakeology flavor is chocolate, but we also love how well vanilla can mix with other things.

The tropical strawberry is kind of a mix of strawberry, banana, and pineapple to me.

My favorite flavor is chocolate in both the original and vegan formula. 

View 61 Incredible Shakeology Recipes for Every Flavor

Shakeology FAQ

When Do I Need to Drink It?

You can enjoy Shakeology anytime of the day.

I like it for breakfast to fight cravings and keep me full. With that said, I usually do it for lunch because that’s when I’m less likely to prep and eat a meal.

Who is it for?

My mom and I are health conscious so it wasn’t a big jump for us to drink Shakeology. With that said, my sister-in-law and her husband are in love with it now, and my husband lost 40lbs with it and Insanity!

The biggest achievement was getting my 70+ year old grandmother on it. She was eating low-nutrient foods like Cheeze-Its and fast food, so we’ve gotten her on it for breakfast most days. It just helps at least get something good in her diet.

The only exception would be kids. They may do better with Daily Sunshine.

Does it get old drinking the same thing every day?

It can. I like the play with the different flavors and recipes to keep it fresh. If I know I am carrying my shake with me, I’ll blend it in a blender the night before, pour it into a shaker cup and refrigerate it. Then I just shake and go the next day.

I’ve read this isn’t a lifestyle and/or it’s a sales gimmick.

For me, Shakeology is a part of my lifestyle. I eat 3-5 meals a day depending on the day and workout I’m doing.

It’s not like I’m drinking 180 calories a day and calling it quits. Having a simple meal in there keeps me sane when meal prepping. I also don’t recommend doing more than 1 shake a day.

Girl gotta eat!

If you are wanting quick results, check out the 21 Day Fix with Shakeology.

Sales Gimmick

Before I wrote this post, I did dig deep into some research on other reviews.

I get that it’s an investment (I was in college buying the stuff!), but as you read negative reviews…also check out what ELSE they are promoting.

Out of the negative reviews, I only read 1 that wasn’t pushing another shake at the end that they just happened to be an affiliate for.

Yes, I am a coach and sharing my story, but the bottom line is – you have to find what works for you.

You also get a money back guarantee so if you don’t like it, you just mail back the empty bag (save on shipping) and they’ll give you a refund.

Cost and Ordering Shakeology

How much is Shakeology per month?

A bag of Shakeology is a monthly serving, and it’s $129.95.

Why is Shakeology’s price so high?

Shakeology is pricey compared to a Walmart-level shake. It’s more than a high-quality protein powder at GNC. And they’re a network marketing company. Why in the world is it $4 a serving?!

It’s because you’re getting that high-quality protein, plus, the ingredients we mentioned above. I know from my experience with IBS-C just a good probiotic was about $40-50 a month. That isn’t adding in the power foods, vitamins, etc. Since Shakeology has our vitamins and minerals in it in a less processed way than a pill, I have even stopped taking my multi-vitamin!

So when you break down the ingredients, plus, how much you typically spend on a full meal each day, $4 a serving is very reasonable if you’re a health-conscious person. It’s about like buying organic apples at Whole Foods at a premium.

View More on Shakeology Price and Ordering Options

Where can you buy Shakeology?

You can buy Shakeology from any coach or online through Beachbody. I highly recommend ordering through a coach because if they are like us, they offer extra goodies for ordering from them like a challenge group and support.

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Shakeology Challenge Packs

So while Shakeology is $129.95, you can choose to do a Challenge Pack starting at $140. 

A challenge pack contains:

• a full bag of Shakeology
• a full workout or nutrition program
• usually a Shakeology shaker cup (each pack is a little different)
• discounted shipping

My favorite pack is the 2B Mindset and Beachbody on Demand (streaming service) Pack because it gives you Shakeology, a nutrition program, and access to over a 1000 different workouts!

Check Out the Challenge Packs Here

eBay Shakeology

I love eBay! I use it all the time for unique bags and home decor. However, I would never purchase any consumable from eBay or a similar site.

You never know if the supplement is old, damaged, fake, or otherwise tampered with. I am all about saving money – but that is just 1 risk I’m not willing to take.

How much is Shakeology if you are a coach?

Beachbody coaches get 25% off any of their orders. So they’ll get 25% off their $129.95 each month. Coaches do pay a $15.95 monthly fee to maintain their website and online office though, so it is a bit of a tradeoff unless they are actively coaching. Learn more about coaching and our amazing team here.

Shakeology Boosts

As you drink Shakeology, you may decide to you want a small boost in your energy and focus, digestion or inflammation. This is where the Shakeology boosts can create a tailored shake recipe just for you!

The video above shares what I thought about each one and which one I liked the best.

If you have a favorite shake already, you can try adding in the boosts to it as well.

• Focus Boost
• Greens Boost
• Digestion Boost

Did our Shakeology review help you decide to try it or not?

You may also like:

• Pumpkin Spice Shakeology
• Peppermint Mocha Shakeology Review
• Vanilla Shakeology Recipes
• Chocolate Shakeology Recipes

What other questions do you have?

Do a Shake Tasting! Get a sampler of the most popular flavors 

Get a Shakeology Challenge Pack Here

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. 

You should consult your doctor before making any changes to your workout or diet. The statements above are just my own experience and opinion.