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 for weight loss except maybe the vague words “support metabolism.”
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
vaani says
Ya:)
Joe says
ok that’s good. are you doing any type of exercise?
vaani says
Calorie intake….morning evening shake….and lunch 2 chappatis 170 with lentils half cup 120
Joe says
Vanni, is this how you are always figuring out calories – looking at the labels?
vaani says
Hi.
No I’m not taking the shake with meal..
My schedule…..
7.30 energy drink
8.30 shake
2.00 pm lunch….. 2 chappatis 1 cup lentils and curd
5.00 pm energy drink
10.00pm shake
The distributor who came calculated my calories and said it is 1700 will recheck again myself
Joe says
Vanni, ok that’s good. Since I don’t know the background of the distributer, I think it’s good double check the calories.
How did the distributor calculate your calories?
vaani says
I checked my calorie intake its 1600 only 100 plus…. But I don’t think its too much that hardly loosening any weight according to it in will loose only 1.1 till mid Nov…can u guide me what else can I do
Joe says
Vanni how are you tracking your calorie intake?
Amanda Laura Heron says
Great idea. Thank you, I thought it may because I’m not use to all the fibre & protein. I only want to lose 20 pounds but I don’t want to be on Herbalife for ever, so I’m hoping to wean myself off by eating clean & being active. I will let you know how this goes, have a great week, thanks for the quick reply.
Amanda Laura Heron says
I started using Herbalife Formula 1, French Vanilla (2 scoops) & Herbalife Protein Drink Mix, French Vanilla (1 scoop) blended to 1 1/2 cups of skim milk, 6 ice cubes & handful of frozen fruit or a banana. I started today, actually but I feel really bloated & gasy, is this normal? I have an active lifestyle, mostly squats & speed walking, ha. And I’ve adapted a healthier lifestyle so I’m hoping Herbalife will help me lose this stubborn baby weight!
Joe says
Amanda, my guess is that your bloating/gas may be due to the bacteria in your intestines breaking down some of the ingredients you are not used to. It may also be that you have an food allergy to some of the ingredients? Fruit and the banana have fiber which may be causing the gas/bloating too.
Since you said you just started your new lifestyle I wonder if this might just all be a “jolt” to your system? Here’s what I suggest. Don’t use Herbalife for the rest of the day. Try using only 1/2 or 1 scoop tomorrow (without the fruit) and see if that reduces the symptoms. if yes, stick with that for a week and then go back to your regular amount (without the fruit). Then add in only a little fruit and see if that does anything.
let me know if that helps.
vaani says
Hi …I have just started on herbalife shake 3 days…I’m having headache daily…..I have normal bmi of 22 but as its on higher side….No exercise did not lessen my weight below 56 I started on this product….I have one fear…regaining weight after losing it….what’s ur experience with the research u have done that claims that people regain weight or it remains almost stagnant…..
I’m not a big foodie….I don’t eat much junk….I heard some say take shake for maintained and then stop….is it worthwhile…or should I stop right away…..please help….i m getting married next year…don’t want go regain weight
Joe says
Vanni, if you are getting headaches, stop taking the shake and see if they go away. How many shakes per day are you using?
you said you had a BMI of 22 but that it was “on the high side.” A BMI of 18.5-24.9 is normal. Do you know what your body fat is? Here is a link to BMI: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/educational/lose_wt/BMI/bmicalc.htm
Id say monitor how many calories you are eating. Try using MyFitnessPal or if you have the Fit Bit, they have really got software too that will track calories.
vaani says
Hi….my headache stopped after 3 days…..the distributer came after a week….all I lost was 700g:(……I’m taking shake morning and evening…..with meal during lunch time…..energy drink morning and afternoon…..its week 2,now but no. Change…. I have more fat around tummy and thighs..
vaani says
My calorie intake is 1700 per day…
Since the beginning
….but my thigh and tummy fat is troubling me
Joe says
Vanni, Id forget the energy drink. Most of them are just stimulants and have no effects on weight loss. I can’t be sure but that may have caused the headaches. 700 grams is about 1.5 pounds for anyone who was curious – not a lot for 2 weeks of trying.
You mentioned you drank the meal shake with lunch. Most shakes are to be used in place of a meal, not in addition to a meal. That makes me wonder if you are eating too many calories. Do try tracking calories with MyFitnessPal or something similar to see if you really are eating 1700 calories per day. Let me know what happens.
Namz says
Joe,
Thanks for coming up with the article, it was really helpful. I am getting married soon and plan to loose at least 10 KGs in 3 months. Phewww..
I am hoping that Herbalife formula1 shakes can help me achieve my goal. Since I read lots of comments, I have few questions. Can it be harmful in anyway for females, I know u mentioned it is safe I want to be sure. Secondly, if I take eggs or more soy in addition to the shake will it help to burn more fat? I am also going to hit the gym so I really hopeful to look slim on my wedding day 😉
Joe says
Namz, congrats on getting married! When I looked at the label, I didn’t see anything stand out to make me think it was not safe for healthy people to use, especially short term like 3 months. I did notice its a little low in folate which is something to look at if you ever think you will have kids. folic acid /folate helps reduce birth defects. Ive seen some reports that women may be deficient in folate so talk to your doctor about this if its relevant to you.
While both eggs and soy are healthy, neither will help you burn fat – and the same goes for those fat burner supplements too. As long as you dont eat more calories than you need for the day, you should lose weight eating any either of them. I’d suggest tracking your calories and exercise with something like MyFitnessPal.com or using the FitBit. Both are good.
Even though I write about supplements, my MS degree is in exercise science. So when you go to the gym be careful with all the high intense boot camp stuff and dont let any personal trainer push you to your limits. If you’ve have not worked out for a while, I recommend circuit training with an emphasis on aerobic exercise for beginners and those with limited time to exercise. It will do the most good in the last time and its less likely to cause any problems. If your not sure how to do this just google “circuit strength training.” I hope to have a post on how to do it soon on my personal site Joe-Cannon.com
Sara Alexander says
Hi Joe! I’m a supplement junkie and was very happy to find your site! I love the details and info in your reviews. I have taken formula 1 for about 5 months now. I really like it but I am with you. I really feel it should have more protein and its kinda sneaky to be required to buy another product to increase that value. I usually just have some Greek yogurt or a protein bar with my shake in the morning to increase it.
oh and Formula One is GMO. They recently just launched a new vanilla non GMO version.(at a higher price) I’m sure more flavors are on the way.
Joe says
Sara, thanks for that information. I had no idea about the GMO status. Im really happy you are enjoying my website too 🙂
Anna says
Hi, I tried Herbalife for weight loss and did it strictly and 100% correctly by taking the tablets that go with the shake for a month but instead of losing weight I actually gained weight. I have been diagnosed with Poly Cystic Ovaries and also have an under active thyroid for which I take medication.
Could this be something to do with me not being able to lose weight? I also train 6 times a week doing a mixture of heavy weights and very intense high impact cardio. So I really don’t know why I’m not losing any weight. Thanks. Anna
Joe says
Anna, sometimes high intensity exercise can increase appetite. are you sure you are eating a few less calories per day than you are burning though exercise? why dont you try this. for this week, use MyFitnessPal.com (its a smart phone app too) to track calories. that may give you an idea of how much you are eating. If you have the FitBit, you can do the same thing on their website too.
let me know what happens.
Anna says
Thank you. I’ll give it a go and see what happens. I’ll keep you posted, Anna 🙂
Jim says
You write: “So, if a person were to drink two Formula 1 shakes and then eat dinner, I’m pretty sure they would lose weight.”
Presumably the person you refer to did not have a full english breakfast, a four course lunch and mid morning and afternoon snacks each preceded by a Formula 1 shake, or two?
You write: “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.”
Would be helpful if the first statement was clarified?
Joe says
Jim, thanks for the feedback. I thought the statement was clear. By drinking two shakes and then having dinner calories theoretically should be reduced assuming someone didn’t eat a truckload of calories at dinner.
Adam says
And one more thing… I personally am not a fan of soy. There are much better sources of protein that don’t have all of the possible ramifications. Soy from a whole food source (fermented) is good; soy that has been genetically modified and processed (and stripped of nutrients) is not.
Adam says
The issue, in my opinion, is the idea that the “results” people may get (i.e. weight loss) is usually solely credited to whatever program you’re on. Whether it be Herbalife, Body by Vi, Shakeology, etc. Everyone seems to gloss over the fact that while your taking a shake, you’re likely eating better and exercising, also. And, the reality is, that NO shake, bar, etc. can give you the same benefits that clean, whole food can. Shakes are convenient–that’s it. They certainly aren’t necessary.
And (in my opinion, again)–they should be used as a short-term SUPPLEMENT. If you want to be fit and healthy, you only need to do four things: eat clean, whole foods; exercise (w/ weight training–not just cardio); drink plenty of water; and get sleep. That’s it.
The weight loss/supplement/health industry is a multi-billion dollar industry b/c they have fantastic marketing. And people tend to want a “quick fix”. They are an easy sell. I would suggest that if you are considering using one, do your homework and really examine the ingredients. Don’t fall for the “sizzle”. (it’s also been my experience that many of the distributors of these types of things aren’t overly knowledgeable about nutrition, in general. They typically don’t even know what’s in their own products. They spin some talking points). DO YOUR HOMEWORK.
Fyi–If you need a degree in bio-chemistry to figure out what’s in it, you’re probably better avoiding it altogether.
Joe says
Adam, I actually have a degree in biology and chemistry so I know what you mean 🙂
naren says
Dear Sir,
i have hypothyroidism from 1 year onwards, after using formula1 shake , my problems and symptoms of hypothyroidism go on increasing…
Joe says
Naren, I’m not aware of any connection between the Formula 1 shake and hypothyroidism. I wonder if this is just an unfortunate coincidence?
Kay says
Is it possible to gain weight using formular 1 ….. i used it twice and i lost my muscle mass , i actually started using it with the intention of increase my muscle mass and also add more weight but it works other way around so is it possible to gain weight and muscle mass using Formular 1 if not what s the herbalife product that works for gaining weight and muscle mass
Joe says
Kay, its possible if your overall calorie intake is less than you need. I think Formula one might be better suited for weight loss. Take a look at how many calories you eat eating using MyFitnessPal. Not to promote one product over another but here is my review of another product that has a bit more calories and protein
https://supplementclarity.com/isagenix-isalean-shake-review-does-it-work/
Toni Reed says
Good Morning Joe,
I really appreciated your article. Today will be my first day using the Formula-1 shakes and the Protein Drink Mix. I have a personal trainer and I work out 3 times a week and have adopted a healthier eating life style.
I agree with you that Herbalife should just increase the amount of protein in the Formula-1 shakes, but then how would they get paid? (enter sarcasm here) at almost $35 per container of Formula-1 and the Protein Powder they are really cleaning up. At that price, I will only be consuming one shake a day and eating two healthy meals. But thank you again for your article. It was very helpful.
Joe says
Toni, thanks for writing and it sounds like you are doing it all right. Do keep me posted on your progress 🙂
Dustin says
Herbalife shakes are a meal supplement that can be used for losing weigh, maintaining weight, and even gaining weight depending on how it is taken.
To lose weight you would want to replace a meal twice a day with 2 scoops of Formula 1 and 2 scoops of Protein Powder and eat 1 healthy colorful meal (colorful meaning with a mix of veggies and fruits) along with taking your multi-vitamins 3 times a day with a meal/shake, and 2 cell activators with a meal or shake. Along with healthy snacks between meals such as fruit, peanuts, peanut butter, ect.
To maintain weight you would have 1 shake a day along with your 3 multi-vitamins and 2 cell activators with meals/shakes and 2 colorful meals and healthy snacks.
To gain weight you would have 3 shakes, 3 vitamins, and 2 cell activators along with 3 colorful meals and healthy snacks.
The reason you take 3 multi-vitamins is because your body only absorbs so much from each one and the rest is removed before your body can absorb it.
The cell activator is to help your body better absorb the nutrients from the shakes and meals.
Along with the shakes you should also drink the tea which comes with all of the programs. The tea helps with digestion, provides a healthy energy boost, and also burns on average 100 calories per serving.
If anyone has any other questions I would be happy to answer them for you.
Joe says
Dustin, thanks for chiming in. Since it sounds like you know a lot about Herbalife (Im guessing your a distributor, which is fine) I had a couple of questions based on what you had said.
1. why would people have to take 3 herbalife vitamins and 2 cell activators to gain weight? Since gaining weight is about calories and since vitamins -and I assume the cell activator – have no calories, how do these help people gain weight? Does herbalife have published evidence that they increase weight gain in people compared to just using the formula 1 shake alone?
2. about the cell activator, does Herbalife have published evidence in humans that the cell activator improves absorption of nutrients?
If you can shed some light on this, that would be great.
Dustin says
Everything revolves good nutrition. The vitamins and cell activator are not for putting on/ losing weight but to make sure your body gets all the proper nutrition it needs. The Formula 1 shake is actually part of a 3 part system, the Formula 1 Shake, Formula 2 vitamins, and Formula 3 cell activator. They were all created to go together.
But you need the added Protein Powder to help get the amount of protein your body needs per day which if I remember correctly is 1 gram of protein per pound of muscle you have so you don’t lose your muscle while losing body fat.
A lot of people make the mistake, not always the case, of watching the scale when and don’t think the products are working because the weight doesn’t go down when in fact your usually losing body fat and replacing it with lean muscle. So unless you check your muscle vs. body fat % then you may not notice a big difference at first.
It is also recommended to work out as with most diets to increase results.
As far as your questions regarding if Herbalife has anything published showing proven evidence I’m sure they do but I’ll have to do some research.
Joe says
Dustin, I’ll agree with the part about good nutrition. I do feel the formula 1 shake is a little low on protein, which it sounds like you agree with also since you recommended additional protein also. I do feel that people need a bit more protein to help reduce cannibalization of muscle protein and other proteins that might occur with dieting, but its not 1 gram per pound. If someone was 500 lbs, would they need 500 grams of protein?
I would love to see published peer reviewed human evidence to show the cell activator and herbalife vitamins help weight loss or weight gain. I have not yet looked at these products but hope to in the near future.
Arashi Ichiban says
Sorry this might sound stupid and all but by reading the article most of the results show high protein intake helps you loose more weight. So does mixing protein powder to formula 1 help you loose weight quicker???
I am going to start formula 1 soon so I was wondering if I should add protein powder or do you think 1 high protein meal would be a good substitute.
I just want to loose weight >.<
love your article 😉
Joe says
Hi Arashi, we work harder to digest and process protein so it might help us burn a few more calories. whether this translates into more weight loss depends on how many extra calories we eat in a day. We do need a little more protein when we are trying to lose weight as this should help reduce muscle loss but its just a tad amount. I dont think adding a little protein to formula 1 will hurt but Im not sure if adds to any weight loss. Weight loss is mostly about reducing calories. if Formula 1 helps you reduce eating more high calorie foods, then it should work whether you add a little protein to it or not. So, basically its up to you if you want to do it or not. Why dont you give it a try for a week with extra protein and a week without it and see if you notice any difference in weight loss or energy levels. Let me know what happens 🙂
I hope this helps and I’m glad you liked my review 🙂
Megan says
I have the formula 1 healthy meal, personalized protein powder, protein drink, and aloe concentrate liquid. i have no idea how to use any of it. i have a 32 in waist and i want to reduce it, along with kickboxing, cycling, and heavy weight lifting (for increased lower body building and a bigger butt! hah), how do i use all there products in combination with my exercise?
im just staring at these products like O.O what now hahah heelp please! i have googled, asked the distributors, called the main line, you-tubed even called random trainers and no one is giving me guidance 🙁
Joe says
Megan, to be honest, I dont think you need aloe. its just a laxative. They dont burn fat or help weight loss. They just make you poop more. Why dont you try this, do your exercises and try the protein drink – one a day – after you are done exercise. the protein shake is to be used in place of food that has more calories so if it curbed your appetite, in theory, it might help you lose weight – just as any low calorie protein shake would. I dont think you need the protein powder if you are using the protein shake.
Id also keep tabs of your calorie intake either by writing down what you eat or by using something like MyFitnessPal.com. Im also a fan of wireless gizmos like the FitBit that make tracking calories a lot easier.
I think sometimes, looking at all the different supplements, it can get confusing about what to take. in general, the simple answer is the correct answer and in this instance that means less supplements.
Any other questions, just ask 🙂
vikrant says
I have been given herbalife formula-1 by the distributor, i want to gain weight .
after drinking for 2 days i am not able to take lunch and not feeling hungry . also tell me the side effects of herbalife products
Joe says
Vikrant, as I mentioned in my review the herbalife formula 1 shake is for weight loss not gaining weight. Each shake has only 90 calories. Even if you mix it with milk and add fruit its still not a lot of extra calories. That said it can add some extra calories to your diet provided you dont eat less, which it sounds like exactly what is happening. Can I suggest that instead of herbalife formula 1 that you eat normally and lift weights -even push ups if you dont have access to a gym. This will help you build the kind of weight you are looking for.
As for side effects, I dont think the formula 1 shake has any bad side effects. Herbalife has MANY products and so I cant speak to all of their products since I have not taken a good look at them. I think the formula 1 shake is fine for most people.
Will says
Hi Joe,
A balanced review as usual. I have experience of this product in the UK. I am not sure that it’s the same because mine (vanilla) states 356kcal per 100g (217 kcal per 26g with 250ml semi-skimmed milk).
The main ingredient is soy protein isolate, as you describe, and it also has fructo-oligosaccharides listed, although not as inulin. Quite significant I though is that the second largest ingredient is fructose. Milk protein is way down the list, as you say.
I got through a tub of it. I was not trying to lose weight but I can see that it might be effective for that because it’s very filling and most significantly, made me feel a little sick, very bloated and gave me frequent wind (belching/burping) for a good few hours after drinking it so that I didfn’t want to eat anything else for some time. I have had soy protein and fructooligosacchraides in many other forms and never reacted like this to simialr products.
So it wasn’t for me, and I wouldn’t routinely use anything that had a lot of added fructose in it anyway.
The vanilla flavour was quite nice and I ended up using it most often to fortify my custard.
Also it was very expensive here. Different seller charge different prices.
Joe says
Will, funny you should mention fructose. I’m actually surprised at how many companies use fructose in their products given the negative feelings so many people associate with it. Wondering if Inulin was in the product you used since using too much can cause gas/bloating?