Updated 8/27/20. Have you heard of Formula 1? If not, you've likely heard of the company that sells it―Herbalife. Can Formula 1 meal replacement shakes help people lose weight? Are there any side effects? Is there any research on these meal shakes? Actually, yes, there is research on Formula 1 and that will be the main focus of this review.
What Is Formula 1 Used For?
On the Herbalife website, it's stated that “Formula 1 shakes include protein, fiber and essential nutrients that can help support metabolism, cellular growth repair, and production.” I take this to mean Formula 1 is a meal replacement shake. Meal replacement shakes are meant to be used when people don't have time to eat real food. They are often used as after-workout shakes also. I don't see any specific mention in the above statement that Formula 1 meal shakes are to be used 
Who Makes Formula 1 Shakes?
Formula 1 shakes are made by Herbalife. Unlike several supplement companies I've reviewed previously, Herbalife is a real company that has a physical brick-and- motor building. The address of Herbalife is 800 West Olympic Blvd., Suite 406, Los Angeles, CA 90015. The building says “Herbalife” on the side, so I know this is their official place of business.
If you search the Better Business Bureau for “Herbalife”, you will see a LOT of small businesses. This goes to the fact that the bulk of the selling of Herbalife products comes from people who are Herbalife distributors. Herbalife at its core has a strong multi-level marketing component. You have to search for Herbalife International of America to find the BBB report on the business.
The BBB gives Herbalife a B+ rating when this review was updated. It notes that Herbalife was started in 1980 and has been a BBB accredited business since 1990. It lists 400 employees, however, I'm sure that doesn't include the many thousands of Herbalife distributors around the world.
Formula 1 Nutrition Information
According to the Herbalife.com website, each container of Formula 1 has 30 servings. A serving size of Formula 1 is two scoops and has the following nutrition information:
| Calories | 90 | 170 (8 oz nonfat milk) |
| Calories from fat | 5 | 5 (8 oz nonfat milk) |
| % DV | %DV | |
| Total fat 1 gram | 1% | 1% |
| Sat fat 0 grams | 0% | 0% |
| Trans fat 0 grams | – | – |
| Cholesterol 0 grams | 0% | 2% |
| Sodium 95 mg | 4% | 8% |
| Potassium 190 mg | 5% | 16% |
| Total carbs 13 grams | 4% | 8% |
| Dietary fiber 3 grams | 11% | 11% |
| Sugars 9 grams | – | – |
| Protein 9 grams | 18% | 35% |
|
Vitamins & Minerals |
||
| Vitamin A | 25% | 35% |
| Vitamin C | 25% | 25% |
| Calcium | 8% | 40% |
| Iron | 15% | 15% |
| Vitamin D | 25% | 25% |
| Vitamin E | 25% | 25% |
| Thiamin | 25% | 30% |
| Riboflavin | 20% | 50% |
| Niacin | 25% | 25% |
| Vitamin B6 | 25% | 30% |
| Folate | 20% | 25% |
| Vitamin B12 | 25% | 45% |
| Biotin | 20% | 20% |
| Pantothenic acid | 30% | 30% |
| Phosphorous | 15% | 40% |
| Magnesium | 15% | 20% |
| Zinc | 30% | 35% |
| Selenium | 20% | 30% |
| Copper | 30% | 30% |
| Chromium | 10% | 10% |
| Molybdenum | 20% | 20% |
It's important to know that the Herbalife website also says to “remember to add fresh fruit and ice” to Formula 1. This means that the nutrition information (and calories) listed above will be different, depending on the type of fruit and amount of fruit that is added.
This idea of adding fruit to Formula 1, reminds me of Shakeology where I wondered “why would you need the extra fruit if it was already so healthy?”
Formula 1 is certified gluten-free. For those who are interested, formula 1 also contains soy protein isolate and fructose. The nutrition label does indicate that the product contains “Milk and Soy” however, soy is the first ingredient listed while casein (which comes from milk) is the ninth ingredient. I take this to mean that most of the protein in Formula 1 is derived from soy. The label does not indicate if the soy is genetically modified or Non-GMO soy.
Formula 1 also contains a fiber called inulin. The Formula 1 label calls inulin “a prebiotic that helps promote the growth of flora.”
Prebiotics are basically the food of probiotic bacteria.
While that may be true, inulin is a soluble fiber found in many foods. For example, inulin is also found in “Fiber One” cereal. According to a Nutrition Action Newsletter in 2008, (click to read the pdf file), “it's not clear if inulin is as good as a foods naturally occurring fibre.” Formula 1 doesn't have a lot of inulin since it's the 17th ingredient listed on the label.
Inulin is also in the IdealShape weight-loss shake so see that for more information.
The nutrition label also mentions that Formula 1 contains “Aminogen” This is a trademarked name for a protein-digesting enzyme complex that I've seen in a few other supplements such as Syntheriod and the Body By Vi Shakes. Aminogen is a product of another company called Triacaro Industries. I don't think there is anything special about Aminogens, especially for people who can digest protein.
Formula 1 And Weight Loss
Even though Herbalife doesn't specifically mention this, there is a lot of talk on the web about how Formula 1 can help people lose weight. So what might cause this? Looking at the ingredients, I think this is because a serving of Formula 1 only has 90 calories (170 calories, if milk was used, and more calories if additional fruit is added). So, if a person were to drink two Formula 1 shakes and then eat dinner, I'm pretty sure they would lose weight.
If I am right and Formula 1 helps people lose weight because it acts as a substitute for higher-calorie foods, then this is the same premise behind other weight loss shakes I've looked at including :
- Right Size Smoothies (100 calories)
- Body By Vi Shakes (90 calories)
- Shakeology (140 calories)
- Isagenix Shake (240 calories)
There is nothing wrong with this, as long as it does not lead to nutritional deficiencies. If a person were taking a multivitamin and eating at least halfway decent, I don't think this would be a problem. That said, I'd personally like to see more protein to Formula 1 if it is used for weight loss. Keep reading for my reasons why.
Formula 1 Weight Loss Research
On the website herbalifescience.com there is a page that discusses 3 clinical studies that used Formula 1 Healthy Meal. These studies are used to support the notion of how the formula 1 meal shake can be a healthy addition to the diet.
It appears that all 3 studies were conducted by members of the Herbalife Nutrition Advisory Board. That's not necessarily bad. Companies that invest time, money and effort into their products is a rare thing. I actually like to see this. That said, let's take a look briefly at each study.
Herbalife Formula 1 Study #1
In a study that does not seem to be published yet titled ” Increased Protein Intake Using Protein—Enriched Meal Replacements Compared to Conventional Protein Intake and Meal Replacements in Overweight Subjects” Researchers gave 110 overweight people different amounts of protein for a year.
Formula 1 shakes ―as well as another protein supplement― were given to the high protein group. Others were just told to eat less and try to get a normal amount of protein.
The researchers noted that drinking 2 Formula 1 shakes (that were enhanced with additional protein) “lead more effective weight-management than limiting calories alone”.
While this is interesting, notice they didn't say people lost more weight. For me, saying “more effective weight management” is very fuzzy language. They might have lost more weight but I'd like to see them actually say it.
I must also note that this study does not prove that Formula 1 itself leads to weight loss because researchers gave people Formula 1 PLUS extra protein (the supplement was called “European Personalized Protein Powder.”) To me, this is a weakness of this study.
Herbalife Formula 1 Study #2
In a study published in 2008 in Nutrition Journal, titled A controlled trial of protein enrichment of meal replacements for weight reduction with retention of lean body mass, researchers gave 100 obese men and women (85 people completed the study) the same number of calories for 12 weeks. The difference: One group received more protein.
The high protein group received 2.2 grams per kilogram of body weight per day) while the regular protein group received 1.1 grams per kilogram of body weight.
Translation:
- High protein group: 2.2 grams per kilogram = 1 gram of protein per pound.
- Low protein group: 1.1 grams per kilogram = 0.5 grams of protein per pound.
Both groups were given Herbalife Formula 1 but the high protein group had their Formula 1 shakes enhanced with another Herbalife supplement called Performance Protein Powder. Those in the standard protein group (1.1 grams per day) had a carbohydrate powder added to their Formula 1 shakes.
Study Results:
- Both groups lost similar amounts of weight.
- There were no changes between the groups in blood fats (triglycerides) or fasting glucose levels.
- There were no changes in waist circumference between groups.
- The high protein group lost more body fat.
- The high protein group had significantly lower LDL and total cholesterol.
As I see it, the major finding of this study ―as far as weight loss is concerned― is that those who received more protein lost more body fat.
A possible problem with this study was that body fat was determined with bioelectric impedance analysis (BIA). This method is often seen as less reliable than other ways such as Bod Pod or underwater weighing.
This study used a BIA device called 310e Bioimpedance analyzer which works by placing electrodes at the ankle and wrist. This is different than the hand-held devices found in health clubs around the world. Theoretically, this device might be more accurate, but I'd still expect that it could be influenced by many factors.
Also, it's important to note that this study didn't just use Formula 1 but Formula 1 that had additional protein added to it.
Herbalife Formula 1 Study #3
In 2009 a study called Efficacy of low-calorie, partial meal replacement diet plans on weight and abdominal fat in obese subjects with metabolic syndrome: a double-blind, randomized controlled trial of two diet plans – one high in protein and one nutritionally balanced was published in the International Journal of Clinical Practice.
In this 12 week, double-blind study,75 obese people were randomly assigned to either these 2 groups:
- Low calorie / high protein group (Formula 1 + Personalized Protein Powder).
- Low calorie / normal protein group (Formula 1 + milk).
The women ate 1200 per day and the men consumed 1500 calories per day.
Study Results
1. Both groups lost weight and fat in the belly.
2. Researchers noted that in those who “followed the diet most strictly, people in the high protein group lost more body fat (and less lean body mass) than the people consuming the standard amount of protein.”
In other words, people who stuck to the diet – AND ate more protein ―lost more body fat.
It's worth noting again, Formula 1 was modified with additional protein.
I also found this next investigation (“Study 4″) which is not listed on the herbalifesciences website. I'm including it because the principal author (Marion Flechtner-Mors) is also the principal author of study #1. She is also on the Herbalife Nutrition Advisory Board.
Herbalife Formula 1 Study # 4
In 2010 a study was published in the journal, Diabetes Metabolism Research Reviews. In this investigation, titled Enhanced weight loss with protein-enriched meal replacements in subjects with the metabolic syndrome, 110 overweight people followed for a year and were told to eat 500 less calories per day and randomly assigned to:
- A high protein group (1.34 grams per kilogram of body weight)
- A low protein group (0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight)
Translation: the high protein group received 0.61 grams per pound and the low protein group received 0.36 grams per pound ―the normal RDA for protein.
This study makes no mention of Formula 1, so I assume it was not used.
Results:
1. Those in the high protein group lost more weight and fat than those in the lower protein group.
2. Measurements of diabetes progression (CRP, A1c, HDL, insulin levels, etc.) improved in both groups although it was deemed slightly better in the high protein group.
3. Similar losses in fat-free mass were seen in both groups.
So again, we see higher protein intake was associated with more weight loss.
Study Problem: In this investigation body fat was measured with bioelectric impedance analysis (BIA) which is seen as less accurate than other methods.
Summary: Formula 1 Weight Loss Research
Looking at only the 3 studies used to support the use of Formula 1 meal shakes, I come to these conclusions:
1. None of the studies only used Formula 1.
3. All 3 studies increased the protein content in Formula 1.
4. Since protein was increased in all 3 studies, Formula 1 ―alone― cannot be guaranteed to produce the same results.
5. Using Bioelectric impedance analysis to determine body fat changes may not be as reliable as other methods.
If I look only at the research on the Herbalife website, it appears that even the researchers on the Herbalife Nutrition Advisory Board increase protein intake when studying Formula 1 meal replacement shakes for weight loss. If that's true, why doesn't Herbalife change the formula?
The idea of increased protein intake for weight loss is not new. Several studies have noted more weight loss in those who consumed a higher protein diet.
Let me be clear. I have no doubt that if people consumed two Formula 1 shakes per day and ate 1 “real” meal, that they would lose weight. I believe however, that weight loss would occur because overall calorie intake was reduced, rather than any special properties or ingredients in Formula 1. The protein in Formula 1 might help but I see no proof that it would work as well as the enhanced-Formula 1 studies shown on the Herbalifesciences website.
Herbalife Formula 1 Side Effects
At this time I'm not aware of any side effects from Formula 1. I believe that in healthy people, Formula 1 is safe. If anyone has experienced side effects please comment below. It's possible that the soy in Formula 1 may be a problem for some people so they need to consider this.
Those who this might be an issue include those with some types of cancer like breast cancer or endometrial cancer, which may -in theory-be activated by soy. This is a common warning with soy although direct human evidence is lacking. Still, for those with cancer, its something to talk to your oncologist about.
Soy might also reduce thyroid hormone levels. This is because soy contains compounds called goitrogens. This can be a problem for people with hypothyroidism. For those with hypothyroid problems, just don't drink the shake within 1-2 hours of taking your thyroid medicine (levothyroxine). If you do this, I don't think the Herbalife Formula 1 shake will have any effect on your thyroid hormone levels.
Soy is often blamed for causing hypothyroidism but this is not true. But, just for peace of mind, those who have hypothyroidism should get their TSH levels checked after a month or so of using Formula 1 to see if their thyroid meds need to be adjusted. I doubt if they would need to.
Formula 1 Price
I did not see a way to order Formula 1 directly at the Herbalife website so I'm not sure of the price. The majority of business Herbalife generates is through Herbalife associates.
As such, it's possible that different associates may sell Formula 1 for different prices. Here is a 30 day supply on Amazon to compare prices. Various Herbalife distributors also sell on eBay. As such it might be smart to shop around for the best price.
Contact Herbalife
The address for Herbalife International is 800 West Olympic Blvd., Suite 406, Los Angeles, CA 90015. The contact number is: 866-617-4273.
If you call this number, good luck, because you are only given 2 options:
1. Are you calling about a recent magazine radio or TV promotion (press 1)
2. Are you a customer calling about an existing order (press 2)
If you don't choose an option you are disconnected! Pressing zero for an operator doesn't work either. For a company that claims to have several hundred people in the organization (BBB statistics), I wasn't happy with their lack of easy customer support.
How To Return Formula 1
If you are not happy with Formula 1, I suggest either calling Herbalife directly at 866-617-4273 or by contacting the Herbalife distributor you bought the product from. I am not aware of any problems associated with returning Herbalife products. If you have had any problems returning products please comment below.
Does Formula 1 Work?
Let me first say that I don't think Formula 1 is bad. Looking at its ingredients, I don't see anything that I would call “extreme.” So, I have no problem with people who want to use Formula 1 as a meal replacement, if they can afford the cost. Do remember that there is nothing unique in Formula 1 that I'd expect to promote better health or superior weight loss over other shakes―such as the shake recipe I make.
Remember, if Formula 1 shakes are going to help people lose weight, they should be used in place of higher-calorie meals ―not in addition to them. For people eating 3-4 meals per day, I would not recommend more than 2 shakes per day since more than this might displace other valuable foods and nutrients from the diet. I do wish Herbalife would increase the protein content of Formula 1 because that is in keeping with their own weight loss research.
Here are all the flavors on Amazon
hello i am thinking of starting these shakes all i have seen is bad things about this i really cant afford to gain no more weight i am trying to loose weight for a operation so if i start this will i loose the weight
Jenna, I think all weight loss shakes basically work the same way: By using 1 or 2 shakes a day – in place of meals – they get us to eat less calories than we normally would. In this way they would cause weight loss.
See my thoughts on Right Size Smoothies for more info on this
I’ve been on Herbalife formula 1 shakes twice a day and multivitamin one 3xday and fibre and herb two tabs 3xday. I am also Diabetic Type 1 and have been for 37 years.
I told the Herbalife rep of my medical history and was assured that it was safe and would help regulate blood sugars and loose weight. Unfortunately I’ve lost £68 not pounds. I’ve not lost but put on weight. I’ve stuck to the diet AND exercised once a day for an hour at the gym cardio and weights.
I’m not sure but after having shakes for morning and lunch and a banana and some scrambled eggs in-between my blood sugars shot up to 24-28 every afternoon. I can only put this down to the fructose in the shake. No diet I have ever undertaken has shot my blood sugars this high every day on a consistent basis and would therefore urge any Diabetic Type 1 not to take Herbalife. After two weeks I am definitely stopping.
The aim is reduce insulin intake not increase it just to accommodate the Herbalife shake.
It can only be the Herbalife products that are causing the blood sugar spikes.
Brad, thanks for writing and really sorry that happened to you. based on what you said, Id feel its wise to stop taking the shake also.
hi joe..is it okay if i consumed formula 1 only, instead of mixing it with other formula? and someone stated above that she/he consume herbalife to gain some weight..so, is herbalife products help to loss weight/gain weight? a bit confuse here..
Manto, as I understand it Herbalife Formula 1 is mostly used by people to lose weight. Its a meal replacement shake. people replace 1 or 2 meals per day with Formula 1. Because formula 1 only has 90 calories per shake, this replaces the more caloric meals people normally would have eaten. The researchers mostly appeared to mix formula 1 with more protein but Id bet most people don’t do this so if you just used it alone, I see no problems with that if your goal is weight loss.
Hi
I used the herbalife. I agree with Joe that it is just a meal replacement. Currently i’m evaluating other shakes/diets to see which ones have more nutrient value. But as far as Herbalife, I did the shake adding water because all milk makes my stomach hurt. I found if I mixed the shakes and let them sit for 5 minutes, they would thicken and taste better. The shakes pretty much help me to learn portion control.
By that I knew I would drink a shake, have fruit 2 hours later, drink a shake, fruit, then dinner. I knew i had to get down to 1200 calories as a short woman to lose weight. So even though I felt hungry initially, my body started to get used to less food, which was really the right amount of food to lose weight.
Then I went from 2 shakes a day to 1 and now i’m not on any. Only because I forgot to order and got caught up with busy work. Again, i’m going to go back to at least 1 shake a day soon so that I can know that i’m cutting back on calories with the holidays coming up, I can afford to have lunch as a shake so I don’t over do it.
Hi joe,
Thanks for your article. It was very informative. I was on the advance program with all the tablet supplements and the herbal tea for 3 months in total. This was 6 weeks for weightloss and 6 weeks for maintenance. I lost 9 kg (I also walk about 4-5km a day to and from work) in total and kept it off for almost 3 years.. which I gained back when I started learning and loving baking and became a massive foodie :).. Which lead to my very high cholesterol and uric levels.
I went back on the program for 2 months and went for another blood check and both were well within the safe range. I’d tell you what they were but I don’t have the report with me.
Anyways. Also want to share that I have tried a few other shakes for quick breakfast or quick lunch. .all of them gave me tummy aches and had to run to the bathroom. Needless to say I only took them once. I never had any problems with Formula1 with the proteins so this is literally the only brand that I can use. They are pricey, but at least it’s money well spent on something that works.
wiks, thanks for writing and Im glad you found something that works for you – and also that your cholesterol is back to normal 🙂
Their address is in LA, HOWEVER MOST OF THEIR PRODUCTS ARE MANUFACTURED IN THIRD PARTY FACILITIES ALL OVER THE WORLD.
Debra, thanks for that information.
I question Debra’s comment as to places of manufacture. A year or so ago a new network company debuted, called One 24. One of their claims was that they produced the product for Herbalife. Their product is called NatraBurst and is offered as a super food blend. Co. name is One Twenty Four LLC,
401 Ocean Avenue Ste 200-A, Melbourne Beach, FL.
I am a former user of Herbalife’s shakes and joined for discount only. I used 2 shakes a day with whole milk and 1 meal of anything I liked. Over the course of 4 months I lost 54 lbs and felt better than I ever had before. Was in mid 40’s at the time. Due to many things, divorce, etc, stopped using it, but in hindsight, probably shouldn’t have. At that time I figured meal cost of shakes at 3 dollars, so not really expensive. Results do not occur overnight.
Yes, some products may be made in other countries, but to state that they are made in third world countries, seems to be said to discredit them. I would like to see proof of this before I will accept it.
I now suffer from CHF and Hypertension and life sucks. 🙂 Daughter got me started on juicing and take my CoQ10 and many other supplements. Had I stayed on shakes, might this have all been avoided ? Only God knows, and he isn’t talking. 🙂
Like your site and your honest reviews and replies.
Meril S, in sunny AZ
Meril, thanks and Im glad you found my site. I cant confirm or deny what Debra said. I did look up the 401 Ocean Avenue address you listed and it looks like some type of strip mall containing several businesses.
Sometimes God listens and gives us what we need – like maybe a daughter who gets us to start juicing as a means to get us back on track 😉
I’ll say a prayer tonight that you get back to a life that looks and feels better.
Joe,
What is your take on Glucosamine supplements used to promote muscle gain?
BTW, I just started using Herbalife and I’m impressed with how fulfilling the formula 1 shake is. It sustains my appetite throughout the afternoon like nothing else I have eaten! It’s almost unbelievable how well it works in that sense. I’ve also noticed that my energy levels are much higher since starting the shakes. From day one I noticed the difference. I’m an avid runner and fitness geek but had some health issues recently that caused a spike in my weight and I was introduced to Herbalife by a good friend who gave me 30 days worth to “try” and like I said earlier, I am impressed.
To make my shakes, I actually use 8 oz’s of unsweetened almond milk vs water or milk in my shakes and on occasion will add a small amount of frozen fruit vs ice cubes and I add cinnamon to every shake. I also use the additional Protein Powder and I will add a Table spoon or two of PB2 (powdered peanut butter), which in itself is absolutely amazing!
Hi Lisa, Ive never heard anybody say glucosamine supplements help muscle growth. I did a quick online check and didnt see anything either. I dont remember any study mentioning this either. Weight lifters sometimes take glucosamine sulfate to try to reduce osteoarthrits pain – and some take it in the hopes of reducing the risk of OA too (but there isn’t much proof of this).
Are there people saying glucosamine sulfate helps muscle growth?
your smoothie sounds really tasty 🙂
I have been using Herbalife since 4/4/13 (now 9/4/13). The way I was taught to use the product is to have it twice a day replacing meals so I would mix formula 1 and the Protein Drink Mix with what ever liquid I preferred and blend with ice. I chose water because lets face it, there is no fat in water. I do a protein based snack in between breakfast and lunch which would be anything from their protein bars to a greek yogurt or nuts.
Since the day I started I have lost 54lbs. I used to be on medicine for high blood pressure and on the verge of becoming diabetic. I also had high cholesterol which I was on the verge of being put on meds for that too. I stopped taking my blood pressure medication two months ago because I no longer needed it.
I had my physical yesterday and my blood pressure was 104/76. That is even better than it was when I was a teen. As for my sugar and cholesterol both are at the normal healthy limits. I have more energy during the day and feel fantastic.
I also use some of their supplements that attribute I believe to my high energy. It is true that you need to contact an Herbalife Distributor or a store/fitness establishment that carries the product to buy it. They have been around for 33 years yet do minimal advertizing of the product (no commercials on TV or radio etc) so I had never heard of it until introduced to it by a friend this year.
I am very happy with my results with this product and plan on continuing to use it going forward as I have not been able to tolerate any other “diet” program for very long due to A. not liking it and B. the cost.
Kristy B, fantastic on losting 54 pounds! Really happy for you 🙂
I started to take HerbalLife products (formula 1) to loss my weight for 15 days. I did not loss even 1kg weight but serum uric acid reached upto 9.1 while it should be below 7.0
Mannu, hmmm thats interesting that Formula 1 caused your uric acid levels to go up. I think you are the first to say that. See if your uric acid goes down after you have stopped taking formula 1.
Hi Joe, Mannu
I’m, no expert on this, but I hear that consuming large amounts of protein is not good for your health in the long run. One of the side effects is that it generates large amounts of acid in the body, which puts added strain on your kidneys and can lead to a risk of osteoporosis, through the body taking calcium from the bones to counteract the acid.
Check out the following article:
http://www.caloriesecrets.net/are-there-any-side-effects-of-protein-powders/
I would be wary of quick fix wonder drinks to solve health problems. I would go the way of a balanced diet and good nutrition any day.
Sarah, I’d agree that too much protein can be a problem for some. Even recently there was some evidence that high protein diets may be bad for younger people, but good for older adults. I do think that when used in moderation (say 0.6 to 0.9 grams per pound) protein intake is probably not going to be an issue for most people especially those who exercise and are healthy. I do feel that some people over do protein and that it can even hinder exercise performance in some people if its used at the expense of other nutrients.
I agree 100% on good nutrition and that means eating more than just protein 🙂
Hi,Joe
Can Herbalife formula1 be used to reduce thigh fat?To lose weight,should I only take this formula1 or should I also take other meals as well throughout the day???
Niloy, I don’t think anything can ONLY reduce fat from the thighs. Losing wight from only one part of the body just doesn’t seem possible. fat might be lost a little faster from some areas than others, but it happens all over the body. That said thighs do tend to be an area where fat loss happens a bit slower than at other areas. Its not impossible but it just takes a bit more time.
Herbalife Formula 1 is a meal replacement shake, which means its meant to replace higher calorie foods you would normally eat during the day. By replacing 1 or 2 meals per day with Formula 1, it should help some people lose weight/fat. But I would not only drink formula 1 because it could lead to nutrition deficiencies.
Try replacing lunch with formula 1 for a few weeks and see if you see any changes. Let me know how it goes.
dear joe, thanx a lot…..Pls can u tell me how can I lose my thigh fat????
Niloy, thigh fat tends to be a bit harder to lose but its not impossible. I think the answer really is eating fewer calories and some exercise (even walking helps). It also takes time. I wish I had a better answer for you than that.
I personally really enjoy the Herbalife shakes. I have tried cookies and cream, dulce de leche, strawberry, and cafe latte. When I tried these I had the formula 1, the added protein, and added fiber, sprinkled cinnamon for taste, and made with Ice and water. The shake was thick, filling, and very tasty! I personally like these shakes, because I am really big on sweets. Drinking these shakes as a replacement for a meal or 2 per day help me not even think about eating dessert! So along with feeling full for a few hours, I do not feel the need to have dessert.
The main idea is that the overall benefits of using these shakes as meal replacements are not just derived from the formula one, but through all the products Herbalife has for customization. Like everyone is different, you can customize the shake to your needs.
The customization is where the shakes get pricey, so definitely this is a down side.
But so far I really like my personalized shakes!
I’ve been using the formula 1 once a day plus one meal in evening (real cooked veggie ) plus multi vits since 3 months, but no weight loss… I am active too :/ I am not obese at all but am 10Kg over what I should be for my height and age. Before using Herbalife I was having porridge in the mornings, but now I have the shake, but no change really . ( I use extra protein powder to boost it, though non herbalife, but hemp protein powder).
I am however concerned about the soy they use ( gmo ? nothing mentioned, so most likely GMO ), so I now use the Free From version of Herbalife F1: It uses pea protein instead of soy. I am however considering using Spirutein or Fruitein shakes instead of herbalife as it has bigger amounts of minerals and vits than herbalife and are using mostly organic ingredients (or at least certified non GMO) ….
sounds like you are not eating enough my friend, you need to consume 15-1700 cals per day , your metabolism will slow , your body will be shocked into storing fat, you should up your shakes to 2 per day with protien added , this is why your not losing weight …trust me !!
I just start using the product for weight loss i use the shake multivitamins and the cell activator along with the tea .when i take them my belly bloat and is like i feel hungry often what im i doing wrong
Janice I dont think you are doing anything wrong. I don’t think you need the muilti vitamins or cell activator because they dont do anything for weight loss. Why dont you try just using the shake and see if that causes stops the bloating / hungry feeling you say you were having.
Hello Joe,
This Rajesh Here,
I have used herbal-life products for few days, but did not continued them. I was worrying @ the future side effects of these products. The products contain Soy Protein Isolate, Fructose, Corn Bran, Cellulose powder.
Requesting you to please aware me on these products effects/side effects by consuming long/short term.
is Soy Protein Isolate not good for us.
is Fructose not good as a sugar replacement,
What is Corn Bran and Cellulose powder.
Less knowledge of these contents prevent me to avoid the herbal-life products.
Please clarify my doubts.
Thanks
Rajesh.
Hi Rajesh,
Id guess corn bran and cellulose power are used as thickeners, to make the shake thicker
Fructose is fruit sugar. in small amounts its not bad esp if its in food and has fiber to accompany it. If you eat fruit, you eat small amounts of fructose. Fructose is not the same as high fructose corn syrup.
Why do you say soy protein isolate is not good for us? Maybe that will help me answer you better on this.
Hi Joe
Very thanks for quick reply.
I have come across so many posts that describes only bad effects. even one my friend’s nutritionist suggested to avoid the soy protein. because of all these, i got confused whether should i go for it or not.
I read on blogs that it imbalances the hormone, which may cause cancer. and bla..bla..
But i would really like to hear the reality from you.
Could you please explain soy protein isolate help me to improve my health.
Thanks
Rajesh
Rajesh, what I can say is that soy can reduce the production of thyroid hormone but there is no proof soy causes hypothyroidism. People sometimes wonder if soy can reduce testosterone levels but I don’t see a lot of proof of this in healthy people. You can always get your testosterone levels tested to make sure if you like.
In women who have a history of breast cancer and other similar hormone -activated cancers, limiting soy is a common warning, Im not aware of any cases where soy caused cancer. I’ll mention this warning myself because anything is possible and women should know about this but Im not aware of any cases of soy causing cancer.
Since most of the soy sold is genetically modified (GMO) I’d guess that the soy in Formula 1 is genetically modified also (ask herbalife to make sure). While Im not a fan of GMO foods (I think they should be labeled as GMO) I’m honesty not sure what its effects might be.
There are a lot of soy haters on the internet. Im sure they have their reasons and I respect their views. As for myself I say soy -the food – has a 5000 year track record of safety but the soy supplements I’m just not sure of. Right now I don’t think the soy in 1 or 2 formula one shakes will hurt anybody esp if they are healthy.
Hi Joe.. I’m thinking of starting this herbalife diet. The distributor guy, whom I contacted, told that I’ve 40% fat, which is really bad. But I’ve only bigger abdomen size and other areas are pretty normal. But after reading your article I’m confused with your “fat free mass” thing. Will it reduce my overall inches drastically or concentrate more on more fat area and less on other areas. I’m really confused here… I did workouts thrice a week but I lost only 5 kg in a year. I’ve got 5 more to go but my abdomen doesn’t reduce well compared to other areas.
Hi Monisa, how did the Herbalife distributor determine your body fat? Did he/she have you hold onto a device for about 30 seconds? if yes thats not the best (its ok but it can be influenced by many things). Did he/she put a probe against your upper arm and ask you how many times per week you work out? if yes, then I have no faith in that device.
Fat free mass is everything your body except fat. So fat free mass also includes bone and even water! Its just your body mass minus your fat mass.
The thing with the herbalife diet is that somehow it will get you to eat fewer calories. this is how it works. this is how every diet works.
Have you ever had your thyroid tested to see if you are making enough? that can play a role in not losing weight.
Im wondering what would happen if you worked out and kept tabs on what you were eating with say, MyFitnessPal.com (its an app for your phone too). That might be cheaper than the herbalife diet.
what do you think?
Thank you Joe…
I’ve got hypothyroidism, That’s why reducing my weight is a bigger problem for me now… I almost lost my belief in workouts… Though I had a pretty good diet, after some time I reached a plateau stage…
Will formula 1 give my expected result without workouts… Or should I have to continue on my workouts too…
Monisa, work out also, One of the biggest things working out will do is help you keep your muscle tissue. if you only diet -and don’t work out – you lose a LOT of muscle. that muscle does not come back. Even without weight loss, exercise is still one of the smartest things you can do for yourself.
thanks, i enjoyed your article
i have just started herballife shake + protein formula 1 for weight gain.
as i m vegetarian and i don’t want to go for hazardous supplements as it contains steroids (in some amount) so i have choose herbalife for high protein.
but still i m not sure it is harmful or not for long term intake,
your article really helped me for future planning.
thanks
and sorry not much good English
Rahul, thanks glad it helped. For what its worth I dont think Herbalife formula 1 shake is harmful in anyway for healthy people.
Hi Joe, thanks enjoyed ur article. I am a vegetarian and I read on the meal chart which says to eat poultry or lean meat. What can I substitute for that? Also, I wanted to know the side effects of it in long run incase if you stop using product after few months or so.
Deepti, While I dont think there are any long term studies, I dont think there are any long term side effects, especially if you only drink 1 or 2 per day. What meal chart – the herbalife meal chart ? I imagine they recommend eating poultry and other lean proteins because they are low in fat. As a vegetarian you can combine various incomplete proteins to make a “complete protein.”
Question for you; as a vegetarian why are you wanting to use the herbalife meal shake? You are already getting a lot good nutrition. I dont think the herbalife shake will add anything significantly -nutrition wise- to what you are already doing. Are you using it for weight loss? if yes, then I recommend seeing a registered dietitian who can look at the foods you are eating and make recommendations on how to be a vegetarian and lose weight. Just wanted to mention that in case it didn’t occur to you
I drink their morning protein shake, the one people at one of their brick and mortar stores do, for the shakes they sell at herbal life stores. You would use two scoops of Formula 1 and then two scoops of Protein Drink Mix which is meant to compliment Formula 1 this is what the Meal Replacement shake is,
Formula 1 alone isn’t used by distributors when selling the shakes from their stores, they always compliment it with something but that something is mainly the 120 calorie, 20g of protein, Protein Drink Mix product that is $44 not counting shipping. A little steep in my mind, but the brink and mortar sells their deal for more, $6 one “shake” of your choice 30+ different flavors.
If you pay like a buck or two more you can have them do two scoops of both Formula 1, and Protein Drink mix, but for the flat rate of $6 you get one scoop of each, and depending on your choice of flavor it will also contain some colored flavored syrup and or Peanut Butter. Peanut Butter if you arent allergic is a must for added calories and protein.
Since do you really want all your protein from one shake to come from Isolates? Peanut butter is awesome for mixing with supplements to truly make one shake and a piece of naan (250 calories, 7g protein) as a meal, but hey I am trying to gain weight.
Basically the Meal Replacement at home shake is meant to be both the Formula 1 and the Protein Drink Mix combined together. You are not suggested to ingest Formula 1 alone for it has minimal nutritional quality, and it just doesn’t taste as good or sit as well as the mix of both Formula 1 and Protein Drink Mix. Basically moving up the price to something like $80 a month or at my house every 22 days. But being a distributor we get a 25% discount.
Loved your article. I used herbalife formula 1 shakes for 3 months last year and lost 24 pounds. This was without exercise. If you have a devoted wellness coach that you buy herbalife from, then they will also teach you how to eat healthier, how to add exercise in and what the right amount of protein to consume is for your muscle mass.
Buying the shakes from a distributor costs about 40 for 30 meals. You can make them with water to reduce the calorie content. Herbalife also recommends adding more protein not necessarily to the shake but replacing sugar snacks with high protein snacks such as eggs or chicken. It is not just a quick diet plan but a lifestyle change.
Finding a great wellness coach that sells herbalife will give you great advice and keep you on track.
Bethany, that sounds fine but I wish you would have worked out when you lost the 24 lbs because that would have minimized the muscle that was lost. We lose a LOT less muscle when we workout while losing weight. This is important because muscle cells lost, don’t come back.
About the herbalife coaches, use your gut instinct about the nutrition and exercise advice -does it sound different from other things you have heard in the past? If it sounds really different, that’s usually not good. herbalife coaches don’t need to have a college degree in exercise or nutrition to give good advice but I just wanted to point that out. Also, don’t assume that because they look good that their information is good. Again, use your instincts.
What do you mean “muscle cells lost,don’t come back”? Does that mean if you lose muscle tone while in the process of losing weight,you could never gain any muscle back,even if you took steroids,and lifted weights everyday,and hired Arnold Schwarzeneggar as your personal trainer? That doesn’t make sense! If that were true,anorexic people,and starvation victims would be eternally skinny.You may want to check your facts.The only cells your body can’t regenerate are brain cells.
Chris, actually there is some new research shows we can grow brain cells.
When it comes to muscle cells it appears we are born with all the muscle cells we will have. They either get bigger, smaller or go away. we are not very good about growing them back. Nobody totally closes the door on the process of hyperplasia of muscle cells (growing new muscle cells) the fact is that there isn’t a whole lot of proof that it contributes significantly to muscle growth. Muscle cells hypertrophy (get bigger) but whether we can grow new cells, is very controversial. If we are able to do it, its estimated that maybe only 5% or so of muscle growth is due to this process.
who’s is this joe and is he selling this crap. The whole or the Internet is Jammed up with these ‘sellers’. Chris is right, if you loose your muscle cells it can grow back haha,
Kiran, I am not an herbalife distributor. If muscle fibers die off, they do NOT come back.
I enjoyed your article as well. I drink Formula 1 daily and i agree with you on needing more protein, that is why i add Protein Drink Mix also produced by herbalife, which contains 15 grams of protein itself. We use it as a milk substitute which gives you 24 grams of protein per shake. that is a much more beneficial amount, because it takes protein to help you build muscle. The muscle helps you burn more fat which is why i think in your studies those who increased that lost more body fat. You may not see the weight loss you want but it could be because you are gaining muscle as well as losing weight when doing it this way. When that occurs you should see a bigger lose in inches then weight.
Ryan, yes that’s another option to beef up the protein in Formula 1 🙂
I agree about the protein. I also drink a formula 1 shake every day 2-3x a day. I have for 5 years now!
But I truly believe Herbalife us doing the right thing by keeping the formula 1 as it is! Everyone’s protein number is different! That’s where protein drink mix and personalized protein powder come in. People are able to take the basic shake and customize it based on their own needs. Even if that means using milk to boost up the protein.
Keep on keeping on Herbalife! Best tasting shake on the market!
Janine, are you a distributor 😉
I really enjoyed your article. I consume a formula 1 shake everyday. On your comment that you wished Herbalife could increase their protein in the product…Yes Formula 1 has 9g of protein BUT the Instant Formula 1 shake has more, 20g. I consume these to increase my protein intake, and like you stated the point is to increase muscle, because the more muscle you have the more fat you burn. Plus a low calorie diet, “clean” eating and an active lifestyle.
Lizzy thanks for letting me know. I did not know there was a formula 1 and “instant formula 1” shakes.
You can also use the Protein Drink Mix or PDM as you milk supplement and it adds more protein to the mix as well. I don’t use it with milk, I use the PDM as my milk supplement, and I’ve lost 54 lbs using it. I love the products. Good luck to any who try this out.
The Formula 1 is actually only 90 calories, which INCLUDES the calories that you get from mixing it with low-fat milk. You would not be consuming 170 calroies by adding milk to it!
JB, sorry you are incorrect. I copied the calories etc from the label. Here is a link to the PDF of the label I used
http://az31823.vo.msecnd.net/content/en-us/pdf/catalog/120424_sku3106_us_label.pdf It clearly states 170 calories if mixed with 8 oz of non fat milk.
It says 90 calories in approximately 3 table spoons (or i call it 3 scoops ) right??
Secondly, i want to know if it does contain any hormones like the steroids or thyroid hormones,etc to help reduce weight? Waiting for the reply. Thanks in advance!
Hi Divya, I saw no hormones in the Formula 1 shake. None were listed in the ingredients. As such, I don’t believe it has any.
3 tablespoons may not be the same amount as 3 scoops. I have noticed that some companies make scoops that hold different amounts. I’m not sure if 1 scoop = 1 tablespoon. Id bet the Herballife company or distributors could shed light on this. If anyone knows, please let me know.
Any other questions, just ask 🙂
Thankyou for your quick reply.
Will there be any health issues arising with increased protein intake? For weight loss, Actually, i was advised by my trainer ( a distributor of herbalife) to take 3 scoops of formula 1 and 2 scoops of herbalife protein powder in my shake. He calculated my protein requirement according to my weight. Also, i want to know what is the best method to know my fat and muscle percentage ? Thanks in advance! 🙂
hi Divya, the best way to measure body fat is with a method called underwater weighing (also called hydrostatic weighing). you can google those terms and they will tell you how its performed. You might have to go to a university to have this done. Ive never seen a dunk tank in a gym. After that, would be something called the Bod Pod. BodPod.com is its website I believe.
The RDA for protein -what’s needed just to stay healthy for most people – is about 0.4 grams per pound. That said, there is a lot that goes into how much protein you might need. Body weight is one of the factors. We also should consider
1 are you new to exercise or not?
2 are you mostly doing strength training or cardio?
3 the quality of the protein – plant protein vs animal sources
4 your age
5 your health (any medical issues?)
That said, as a rule, if you are eating between 0.6 to 0.75 grams per pound of body weight, I think that’s good for most people healthy people. Remember its not just the Herbalife shakes that count. Look at the food you eat. you may be surprised that you are pretty much already at this level of protein.
In the US we use two of the scoops which are about 14 grams each. The US measurement of the Herbalife scoop included with the Formula 1 is considered one heaping tablespoon.
Oh! Thankyou joe (:
I am a vegetarian.
Anytime Divya 🙂
In my professional experience, SOY is now assumed to be GMO affected. EVEN those brads that claim their’s is “organic” and therefore should not be GMO, can be contaminated by GMO soy.
I have had 2 clients who have suffered serious consequences, from feeding “O Organics” from Safeway, to babes, believing they were safe, but were not.
The same clients experienced NO health problems from truly organic grains from clean sources they ground up themselves and used as food. Inflammatory foods are NOT helpful to developing ood health, nor healing health problems.
Foods that have been GMO’d, hurt people’s health, the same way they have been harming or pets’ health since they started putting them into petfoods years ago.
SOME of the earliest GMO’d foods include: corn, soy, peanuts, wheat…and others.
As for FRUCTOSE:
Unfortunately, natural sources like Agave syrup, has more fructose than High Fructose Corn syrup.
The only thing agave has going for it, so far, is that agave is not GMO’d, yet.
However, frustose is pernicious: it causes calories to be stored as fat. About 15 years ago, the medical field thought Fructose was a safe alternative for diabetics–we were terribly mistaken!! Unfortunately, the food industry has failed to catch up to that yet.
Fructose does not get used as “energy units” the way glucose does. It almost entirely stores as fat. AND, to do that, it encourages insulin resistance.
Fructose is NOT friendly to diabetics nor dieters.
When trying to replace meals using protein shakes, PLEASE be careful to read ingredients!
FURTHER, when nutritional listings are expressed as “percentages” instead of milligrams or other actual measurements, you can bet that the actual nutritional content is likely NOT significant enough to be meaningful.
I`ve been strongly disappointed by Herbalife Formula 1 shakes!
Instead of losing weight, I put on around 5kg in one month!!!!!!!!! That rubbish made me fat!!! – And I`m not a lazy person, I don`t have too many sweets etc!
I complained and Herbalife Customer Care didn’t help me at all!
What`s more, Nora – the Herbalife Distributor Services Representative Uk & Ireland didn’t care about what I was saying! We argued for 15mins and then I told her I would post negative feedback online and she didn’t give a sh*t!!!!
People are getting rich because they know how to fool us! This is herbalife!
Ah, and by the way: I couldn’t check the ingredients in Formula 1, but I know that Aloe Vera concentrate is ONLY 40% Aloe Vera and I paid more than £20 for it!!!!!
Herbalife is rubbish!!!!
Adina, Im sorry you had that bad experience. Were you able to get a refund? Im curious why were you not able to see the ingredients in Formula 1? Aren’t the ingredients printed on the product label? I didn’t see aloe listed in the ingredients list when I reviewed it. Did you see aloe listed?
Hi it happened the same to me! When i started the trial period i gain weight and actually felt more hungry and heavier! I just stop drinking the shake as im normally a slim person And very active. my reason to tried herbalife was to get more energy but it didnt work neither.
In my personal opinion fresh food and exercise are best than any chemical mixture. It is useful to know that im not the only one in the gain weight side.