Over the last decade, we’ve been bombarded by information on the value of eating more vegetables and fruits. We now know that plant foods are more than just low calorie sources of fiber, vitamins and minerals…they’re loaded with antioxidant compounds that may reduce our risk of serious diseases and slow the aging process. It seems like a new “superfood” or “superfruit” that tops the ORAC charts is being discovered every other week.

Yet, for all the knowledge we now possess, vegetable and fruit consumption is still shockingly low. According to the Centers for Disease Control, only 32.6% of US adults consume fruit 2 or more times/day, and only 27.2% eat vegetables more than 3 times/day. We have a lot of catching up to do, with respect to healthy eating.

Under the circumstances, it’s not surprising to see supplements being marketed to fill the gap. One such supplement is Phytoberry – a blend of high ORAC fruit concentrates, herbal extracts and oils that’s designed to act “…as a wonderful insurance policy” against inadequate fruit intake.

Manufacturer’s Description: PhytoBerry® is a highly concentrated berry based whole food supplement that is loaded with natural anti-oxidants. Featuring a comprehensive blend of over 40 high ORAC value fruit concentrates, phytonutrients, essential fatty acids and herbal extracts, PhytoBerry® is specifically designed to offer whole body antioxidant protection. PhytoBerry® has been professionally formulated, energetically tested and contains no artificial ingredients of any kind. A single serving has the equivalent nutrient content of 6 to 8 servings of fresh fruit.

Calories 60 Fat 1 g Trans Fat 0 Cholesterol 0 mg Total Carbohydrate 13 g Dietary Fibre 2 g Sugars 7 g Fruit Concentrates Goji Berry 1200 mg Organic Acai Berry 600 mg Pomegranate 300 mg Indian Goose Berry 215 mg Mangosteen (including pericarp) 200 mg Prune 200 mg Blueberry 175 mg Raisin 150 mg Cranberry 140 mg Strawberry 125 mg Acerola Berry 110 mg Apricot 90 mg Raspberry 70 mg Cupuacu 55 mg Blackberry 40 mg Sea Berry (Buckthorn) 35 mg Elderberry 35 mg Phytonutrients Rosehip Extract 250 mg

Green Tea Extract 140 mg Apple Extract 70 mg White Tea Extract 35 mg Rosemary Extract 30 mg Grape Skin Extract 30 mg Olive Leaf Extract 15 mg Bilberry Extract 15 mg Grape Seed Extract 15 mg Pine Bark Extract 10 mg Corn Silk (Zea mays) 10 mg Quercitin 5 mg Lycopene 5 mg Resveratrol 2 mg Essential Fatty Acids & Oils Organic Non-GMO Lecithin 900 mg Organic Flax Seed Oil 320 mg Organic Coconut Oil 55 mg Plantain Oil 35 mg Extra Virgin Olive Oil 25 mg Avocado Oil 20 mg Essential Orange Oil 140 mcg Essential Rosemary Oil 140 mcg Essential Clove Oil 30 mcg Essential Thyme Oil 30 mcg Essential Oregano Oil 30 mcg Essential Cinnamon Bark Oil 30 mcg Black Pepper Extract 2 mg

Other Ingredients: Organic Evaporated Cane Juice Powder, Stevia Extract and Natural Berry Flavor

Comments: One of the problems I’ve seen with blended, “superfood” supplements in general, is that they feature an impressive-looking array of ingredients, but provide only miniscule amounts of each one.  Whole foods are biochemically complex, and specific nutrients are present in relatively small amounts. When only small amounts of the food are provided in the first place, the nutritional impact is debatable. Under the circumstances, it’s important to know more about what the entire supplement blend has to offer, vs. individual ingredients.

Which brings us to PhytoBerry…unfortunately, the information available on the company web site is long on buzzwords, and short on specifics.  Consider the following paragraph:

This “superfruit” blend packs a one-two punch by providing exceptional antioxidant activity while preserving the natural harmony of the whole foods, including all of the secondary and trace nutrients. This natural balance and synergy provides us with a level of protection that can’t be duplicated with isolated forms of antioxidants. 

PhytoBerry provides “exceptional antioxidant activity?”  Then why isn’t the ORAC value provided on the site or product label? The blend preserves “all of the secondary and trace nutrients?”  Then why aren’t these listed on the nutritional label?  This “level of protection…can’t be duplicated” with isolated antioxidants?  How do they know this? Where’s the science behind this claim?  PhytoBerry contains the “equivalent nutrient content of 6 – 8 servings of fresh fruit?”  Which nutrients and fruits did they use to draw this conclusion? 

I found exactly ZERO data to support any of these claims.

All told, PhytoBerry provides less than 4 grams of blended fruit concentrates, which isn’t a lot.  And – needless to state – we know nothing about what might have been lost as a result of processing.  Heat, light and air can be incredibly damaging to nutrients…yet the company tells us nothing about how their concentrates were prepared or handled. Ditto the extracts, which are not standardized for any of the known, bioactive ingredients.

PhytoBerry also contains a blend of nutritional oils, but once again, the amounts are too small to be of much use. For example, consider that a teaspoon of – say – flax oil represents about 4 – 5 grams…the 350 mg in PhytoBerry represents a few drops, at best. Some of the oils are even provided in microgram amounts…in other words, they’re simply label decoration.

Ironically, it’s probably the isolated phytonutrients (e.g., lycopene, resveratrol and quercetin) added that provide the most value.  The amount of resveratrol added – while not large by supplement standards – is a healthful amount (about the same as in a couple glasses of red wine).

But does this justify the price? PhytoBerry ain’t cheap: the best price I could find for a 1 pound (30 serving) container was $35.99.  If a serving of Phytoberry really represented the nutrient equivalent of 6 – 8 servings of fresh fruit, it might be worth it, but I’m unrepentantly skeptical. The burden of proof is on the company, after all.

For what it’s worth, the sample packet of PhytoBerry I tried was tasty enough: it tasted just like berry-flavored “Juicy Juice” with a small amount of sediment/grit in it. 

Overall, I’d say PhytoBerry probably could make SOME contribution to your phytonutrient intake and is certainly benign, but personally, I’m far from convinced that it’s a viable substitute for the real thing.  In the long term, the solution to not eating enough fruits and vegetables is…to eat more fruits and vegetables.

Taste: 4.0/5.0

Quality: 4.0/5.0

Efficacy: 2.0/5.0

Value: 2.0/5.0

Overall: 3.0/5.0

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Omega-3 fatty acids are all the rage, and a number of fortified foods have appeared on the market, such as eggs, cereals and even peanut butter.  Many people (like me!) prefer supplements, however, as this enables them to consume a standard amount of their choice.

Finding quality supplements can be a bit tricky, though: capsules sometimes cause fishy “burps” or have an objectionable aftertaste.  I prefer the liquids from high quality sources like Carlson’s or Nordic Naturals, but – let’s face it – not everyone likes consuming oil off a spoon…even if there’s no particular flavor, it’s still, well…kinda oily.  It would be nice if there were a fish oil supplement you could actually like, vs. barely tolerate.

Enter Barleans’ Omega Swirl.  Barleans has been an industry leader in producing high quality oils, particularly flax oil.  Omega Swirl is designed to deliver a solid amount of EPA and DHA, while having a “smoothie-like taste and texture.”

Manufacturer’s Description: Omega Swirl is an Omega-3 Sensation with the taste and texture of a fruit smoothie! Now everyone can enjoy the benefits of Omega-3 without the oily taste and texture or swallowing large capsules. Rich in vital and essential Omega-3 fatty acids, Omega Swirl flax and fish oil supplements are the freshest, best tasting and most nutritious, naturally. Omega Swirl is the perfect solution for the whole family!

Serving Size 2 tsp. (10 ml) Servings Per Container 47 Calories 45 Calories from Fat 30 Total Fat 3.5 g Saturated Fat 1.0 g Cholesterol 10 mg Sodium 0 mg Total Carbohydrate 4 g Sugars 0 g Xylitol 2 g Vitamin A 84 IU	Vitamin E 2 IU Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fat Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) 365 mg Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) 365 mg Alpha-Linolenic Acid (LNA) 35 mg Other Omega-3 Fatty Acids 220 mg Omega-6 Polyunsaturated Fat Linoleic Acid (LA) 130 mg Other Omega-6 Fatty Acids 190 mg Omega-9 Monounsaturated Fat Oleic Acid 820 mg Other Omega-9 Fatty Acids 190 mg
Ingredients: Molecularly distilled cod liver oil, water, xylitol, glycerine, gum arabic, natural flavors, citric acid, xanthan gum, guar gum, turmeric (for color), ascorbyl palmitate.

Comments: I first encountered Omega Swirl at an industry trade show and was hooked.  It’s a sweet, creamy, lemon-flavored emulsion that doesn’t taste particularly greasy or oily at all, much less fishy…the sales rep for Barleans described the flavor as “lemon meringue pie” – which was pretty accurate, in my opinion.

One drawback is that it is more expensive than conventional offerings.  A 16 oz. bottle costs $19.16 at iHerb.com and provides 47 x 730 mg servings of combined EPA/DHA – which works out to 34.3 g total.  The 16.8 oz. bottle of Carlson’s that I usually order costs about $6.00 more ($25.46) but provides over 3 times as much EPA/DHA (100 servings x 1300 mg = 130 g).

I will readily concede, however, that the Carlson’s doesn’t taste anything like the Barleans!  And while it’s not the most economical choice, it’s not outrageously expensive either.  So, if you’d like to take fish oil, but are concerned about the taste, Omega Swirl could be just the product you’re looking for.

Taste: 5.0/5.0

Quality: 5.0/5.0

Efficacy: 5.0/5.0

Value: 3.0/5.0

Overall: 4.5/5.0

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The thinkThin line consists of a series of reduced calorie/carbohydrate, high protein meal replacement bars. The “thinkProducts” line are the creation of CEO Lizanne Falsetto, as part of her quest to create “pure functional foods.” There are 7 different flavors to choose from: Creamy Peanut Butter, Chocolate Fudge, Brownie Crunch, Chocolate Mudslide, Dark Chocolate, White Chocolate Chip, and – of course – the Chunky Peanut Butter flavor.

Manufacturer Description: “Our all natural high protein thinkThin™ bars are draped in rich delicious chocolate and delivers 20g of protein. Rated one of the top bars in the natural industry, thinkThin is the ONLY naturally sugar-free, high protein bar for an active lifestyle. Our thinkThin bars also appeal to consumers with special dietary needs because they are gluten free, have 0g of sugar and offer diabetics an alternative healthy snack.”

Nutrition Facts: Serving Size 60g Calories 240 Calories from Fat 80 Total Fat 8g Saturated Fat 3 g Trans Fat 0 g Cholesterol 5 mg Sodium 200 mg Potassium 60 mg Total Carbohydrate 26 g Dietary Fiber 1 g	Sugars 0 g Sugar Alcohol 13 g Other Carbohydrates 10 g Protein 20 g Vitamin A 25% Vitamin C 25% Calcium 25% Iron 30% Vitamin E 25% Thiamin 25% Niacin 25% Riboflavin 25%	Vitamin B6 25% Folate 25% Vitamin B12 25% Biotin 25% Pantothenic Acid 25% Phosphorus 15% Iodine 25% Magnesium 4% Zinc 25% Copper 25%
Ingredients: Ingredients: Protein blend (calcium caseinate, soy protein isolate, whey protein isolate) ,glycerin, coating (maltitol, cocoa butter, chocolate liquor, sodium caseinate, dairy oil, soya lecithin, natural flavors, salt), glycerin, maltitol syrup, ground peanuts, soy crisps (soy portein isolate, rice flour, calcium carbonate), water, peanuts, canola oil, peanut flour, natural flavors, tricalcium phosphate, soya lecithin, salt. Vitamins and Minerals: ascorbic acid, d-alpha tocopherol, niacinamide, zinc oxide, vitamin A palmitate, electrolytic iron, calcium pantothenate, pyridoxine hydrochloride, copper gluconate, riboflavin, thiamin mononitrate, folic acid, biotin, potassium iodide, vitamin B12.

Comments: Unlike many protein bars, the thinkThin Chunky Peanut Butter bar had a relatively soft and somewhat grainy texture, with just a hint of crunchiness. “Chunky” is a misnomer, as the texture was even throughout – there were no chunks of peanut at all.

The bar was sweet, but had an odd, un-peanutty taste, almost like eating a chocolate-covered Frito bar. It wasn’t bad, but not what I expected.

One nice thing about this bar was that good-quality ingredients were used: the protein blend is solid; real peanuts were used, and there were a minimum of additives. The bars are also competitively priced: purchased from the company web site, a box of 10 sells for $17 (not including shipping and handling).

I found it to be less than satisfying, however. I ate one as a pre-dinner snack, and found that it didn’t do much to satisfy – much less suppress – my appetite. In my opinion, it could work as a “value added fix” to satisfy a craving for something sweet, but not as an actual meal replacement.

People with “special dietary needs” should pay close attention to the ingredients, too: while these bars would be suitable for diabetics (low glycemic index) and people on gluten-free diets; they would not be appropriate for those with dairy, soy or nut allergies. Moderation is also advisable, as sugar alcohols can cause bloating and/or diarrhea when eaten in excess.

Here’s how I rate this product (out of 5 stars):

Taste: 2.5/5.0

Quality: 4.5/5.0

Efficacy: 2.0/5.0

Value: 3.5/5.0

Overall: 3.0/5.0

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Oatmega 3 Wellness Bars are the creation of Trevor Ross, the founder of “Boundless Nutrition.” An “electrical engineer with a passion for rock climbing and hiking,” Ross created the company after he realized that “bars were beginning to morph into candy bars…as I learned more about nutrition, I realized there wasn’t a healthy bar that I actually wanted to eat. ”

Manufacturer’s Description: The Oatmega 3 Wellness Bar contains 400mg of EPA and DHA Omega-3. This is equivalent to most fish oil supplements without large pills to swallow or any fishy taste.

…Every ingredient we choose—from dark chocolate, agave nectar, and green tea—to omega-3 fatty acids, and whey protein isolate—does amazing things for both your mind and body. Nearly 50% of the bar’s ingredients are organic. Oatmega 3 bars contain no artificial sugars or preservatives and no genetically modified foods or organisms.

A low glycemic load provides for a steady energy release. These bars are cold processed which means the ingredient’s natural and healthy enzymes are preserved.

Serving Size: 1 Bar (69g) Amount Per Serving Total Calories 250 Calories From Fat 60 Total Fat 7g Saturated Fat 2g Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol 10mg Sodium 140mg

Total Carbohydrates 29g Dietary Fiber 6g Sugars 13g Protein 18g Vitamin A 0% Vitamin C 100% Calcium 10% Iron 6%

Ingredients: Whey Protein Isolate, Organic Agave Nectar, Organic Rolled Oats, Organic Dark Chocolate chips [Organic Sugar, Organic Chocolate Liquor, Organic Cocoa Butter, Organic Soy Lecithin, Organic Vanilla (May Contain Traces of Milk)], Vegetable Glycerin, Oat Fiber, Peanut Oil, Water, Brown Rice Crisps (Brown Rice Flour, Rice Flour), Ultra Refined Fish Oil (Anchovy, Sardine), Natural Flavors, Soy Lecithin, Green Tea Extract, Sea Salt, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), and Natural Vitamin E to Preserve Freshness.

Comments: Oatmega 3 bars come in three flavors: Dark Chocolate Peanut, Mocha and Dark Chocolate Mint—I purchased the first two flavors from an online retailer, netrition.com for $1.99 each. The bars are uncoated and fairly chewy (similar to a Kraft caramel) with a slight grainy/crunchy texture. The “Dark Chocolate Peanut”—while sweet and reasonably tasty—didn’t have a very pronounced flavor…it wasn’t very “peanutty” or “chocolatey.” I thought the Mocha bar was better: it had a good, strong coffee flavor to it (and I like my coffee!).

The bars are fortified with EPA and DHA from fish oil—which is roughly the equivalent to a 1000mg fish oil capsule—along with green tea extract providing 200 mg “green tea antioxidants.” Most of the protein comes from whey protein isolate; while the carbs are from rolled oats/oat fiber and agave syrup.

Oatmega bars represent a solid attempt to create a healthy food/nutraceutical bar. With the exception of the agave nectar, it’s a pretty good effort. I’m not enthusiastic about this particular ingredient: while agave nectar is promoted in vegan circles as a “healthy” alternative to sugar, fact is, it contains more fructose than high fructose corn syrup.

Fructose is a problematic carb source, as it’s metabolized to fat more readily than glucose. This shouldn’t be a problem per se for active people not consuming surplus calories…it could be, however, for those who intrinsically believe that—if it’s “healthy,” then it’s ok to eat as much as you want (FYI: it’s not).

Thanks to the protein and fiber, I thought the bars were reasonably filling. While not specifically listed as a low calorie “meal” bar, the cals (250–260) are low enough, and the protein (18g) high enough to fit in that category.

Here’s how I rate this product (out of 5 stars):

Taste: 3.5/5.0

Quality: 4.5/5.0

Efficacy: 3.5/5.0

Value: 3.5/5.0

Overall: 4.0/5.0

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Next Proteins, Inc. is the company behind Designer Whey and related products, such as Aria and Ultimate Orange. Founded by former Olympic athlete (and Dan Duchaine disciple) David Jenkins, the company’s stated goals are to “begin and end with helping people live longer, healthier, more fulfilling lives.”

Manufacturer’s Description: The first refreshing protein water. 100 Good-For-You Calories make counting calories easy and weight management a piece of cake. 20g of protein helps burn fat and build lean, strong muscles during exercise. 5g of fiber helps control hunger, while natural fruit flavors bring delicious enjoyment.

Serving Size 1 bottle (591 ml) Servings per container 1 Calories 100 Total Fat 0g Cholesterol 2mg Sodium 30mg	Potassium 90mg Total Carbohydrate 8g Dietary Fiber 5g Sugars 1g Protein 20g
Ingredients: Purified Water, Whey Protein Isolate, Isomaltooligosaccharides (Prebiotic Fiber), Natural Flavors, Citric Acid, Malic Acid, Potassium Benzoate, Annatto (Color), Maltodextrin, Sucralose

Comments: Protein Water takes advantage of new technologies for creating heat-stable whey protein isolates that are clear in solution: although it contains 20g of protein, it could easily pass for Crystal Light or other water-based, non-juice beverages. There are three flavors: pomegranate, blue raspberry and orange-mango.

I gave the orange-mango a whirl. It was mild-flavored: sweet, but not overwhelmingly so, with a vaguely citrus-y flavor that didn’t really suggest orange or mango per se, but was pleasant enough. Overall, it was a light and modestly filling drink.

I thought it was fairly pricey: a single 20 oz. bottle cost $3.59 at the local drugstore. The best deal I found online was $29.96 for a pack of 12 bottles (approx. $2.50 per bottle). It’s a lot to pay for the equivalent of a Gatorade G2 with a scoop of protein powder.

Here’s how I rate this product (out of 5 stars):

Taste: 3.5/5.0

Quality: 3.5/5.0

Efficacy: 3.0/5.0

Value: 2.0/5.0

Overall: 3.0/5.0

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TRIMSPA’s Froodia bars complement the company’s X32 fat burner, which functions primarily as an appetite suppressant: the primary ingredients are glucomannan (soluble dietary fiber) and Hoodia gordoni.

Hoodia is a cactus-like plant used by the San people in the Kalahari to stave off hunger. It’s one of those ingredients that looks great on paper, but has yet to realize its potential, thanks to poor quality control and the use of counterfeit material by unscrupulous manufacturers. TRIMSPA, however, claims their Hoodia is the real deal, and includes 400 mg of it in each Froodia bar.

Froodia is designed to be a more convenient and satisfying way to take Hoodia. As the label describes it: “‘I have to remember to take my Hoodia’ is no longer a task, but a very convenient ‘I can’t wait’ moment of ‘mm-mm’ indulgence.”

Manufacturer Description: “FROODIA™, clinically demonstrated to cause weight loss, is the first-ever fruit based bar in the US to contain 400 mg of authentic African Hoodia Gordonii. Now you can stave off hunger just like the San tribe, but in a delicious, flavorful, fruit-based bar.

Fat Free. Low Glycemic Index. Good Source of Fiber. 100 calories per bar! Available in 4 delicious flavors: Strawberry, Cherry, Apricot, Summer Thunder

Serving Size: 1 Bar 33g (1.1 oz.) Calories: 100 Total Fat: 0g Total Carb: 24g Dietary Fiber: 3g Sugars: 13g Protein: 1g	Vitamin A: 268 IU 6% Vitamin C: 2.4mg 4% Calcium: 20mg 2% Iron: 1mg 6% Sodium: 20mg Hoodia gordonii (whole plant) 400mg
Other Ingredients: Dried Apricot, Dried Pear, Dried Apple, Fine Cellulose, Natural Flavoring and Sulfur Dioxide (for color retention)

Comments: I tried two different Froodia bars: “Apricot Ambush” and “Savage Strawberry”—which were sold open stock at my local supermarket. Both were quite tart and tangy and not particularly sweet—which I rather liked. The flavors reminded me of “Fruit Rollups,” although the bars had a better texture: dense, moist and chewy.

I didn’t feel like they had any effect on my appetite, however. This may be due to the dose: 400 mg isn’t very much. According to a review by Consumer Lab, a typical dose of dried Hoodia is 3000–4000 mg. On the other hand,—according to Amie’s review of another Hoodia product—it may take some time for Hoodia to “build up” in the body, so perhaps a greater effect would be seen if the bars were eaten every day.

In line with this last point: TRIMSPA claims to have conducted a clinical trial in which 22 overweight women (BMI 25–40) lost an average of 4.4 pounds after eating 1–3 Froodia bars/day over an 8 week period, without changing anything else.

Thus, it’s possible that Hoodia could be effective long-term. On the flip side, however, there’s nothing in the brief study description to rule out a) a placebo effect; or b) some effect of the fruit bars themselves—minus the Hoodia. Dried fruit has a low glycemic index and provides extra fiber, which can be satiating, after all…I could think of worse things to snack on.

Price-wise, the bars aren’t bad when compared to other energy bars…but they’re on the high end w/respect to the Hoodia. For example, the Hoodoba hoodia in Amie’s review costs approx. $1.00 per 400 mg serving…but drops under $0.60 when the bottles are purchased in bulk (3 or more at a time).

In contrast, I paid $1.50 for the same 400 mg at the store. TRIMSPA does advertise an “exclusive” price of $11.95 for a box of 12 bars (approx. $1.00 each)—but the company recently stopped taking online orders, and I was unable to locate another retailer selling the bars in bulk.

Here’s how I rate this product (out of 5 stars):

Taste: 4.0/5.0

Quality: 4.0/5.0

Efficacy: 2.5/5.0

Value: 2.5/5.0

Overall: 3.0/5.0

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Lenny & Larry’s began in Venice Beach, circa 1993. According to their web site “a former American Gladiator and friend decided to create and market hi-protein muffins, cookies, brownies and other reduced-fat baked goods.” The company mission is to “create and distribute healthy baked goods as well as to encourage physical fitness and a healthy diet.”

Manufacturer’s Description: We created another perfect snack! Since 1993, Lenny and Larry’s has been pumping protein into cookies, brownies, muffins and other goodies. Grab it, munch it, chomp it or devour it… but most importantly, enjoy it and stay healthy.

Eat Brownies, Get Muscles! Protein can help in muscle development if combined with regular exercise and balanced nutrition.

All Natural

Fresh Baked

No Trans Fat

A Low Cholesterol Food

20g Protein

Serving Size 1.41 Oz. (40g) Servings Per Container 2 Calories 170 Calories From Fat 54 Total Fat 6g Saturated Fat 2g Trans Fat 0g

Cholesterol 15mg Sodium 160mg Total Carbohydrate 19g Dietary Fiber 1g Sugars 12g Protein 10g

Ingredients: Protein Blend (Whey Concentrate, Soy Isolate, Wheat Isolate), Natural Brown Sugar, Non-Hydrogenated Margarine (Palm Oil, Water, Salt, Whey, Vegetable Monoglycerides, Soy Lecithin, Natural Butter Flavor, Citric Acid [Acidulant], Beta Carotene [Color], Vitamin A Palmitate), Corn Syrup, Chocolate Chips (Semisweet Chocolate [Sugar, Chocolate Liquor, Cocoa Butter, Dextrose] with added Lecithin Emulsifier), Vegetable Glycerin, Milk Chocolate Coating (Sugar, Fractionated Palm Kernel Oil, Nonfat Milk Powder, Milk Powder, Cocoa Powder, Sorbitan Tristearate, Soy Lecithin [an Emulsifier], and Vanilla), Cocoa Processed with Alkali, Egg, Natural Flavors, Caparve (Cultured Dextrose, Flour and/or Cornstarch), Baking Soda, Salt, Konjac Flour, Guar Gum

Comments: I picked up two, 80g single bars from Netrition.com for $2.19 each: “Triple Chocolate” and “Peanut Butter.” Despite the names, I could barely tell the two apart: they both tasted pretty much the same.

But that was ok, as “pretty much the same” was also pretty darned good! Dense, moist and chocolatey, the only real flaw was that they were a bit too cloyingly sweet for my taste. But the brownies were sufficiently decadent to make me do a double take at the nutrition label and the fine print: they were just too rich to be only 170 calories. Sure enough, although they weren’t particularly large, each package represents TWO servings. So if you eat the whole thing (and this is a pretty sure bet…), you’ll have 340—NOT 170—calories to account for.

Admittedly, this is still less than the equivalent of—say—a Duncan Hines brownie. According to CalorieKing.com, 1.41 oz. (equivalent to 1 serving of a Muscle Brownie) of the prepared “Chewy Fudge” mix would have 240 calories, 12 g fat, 2.7g protein and 21.4 g sugar. Thus, while not quite a “diet” treat, Muscle Brownies are a definite improvement.

Beyond the extra protein, however, Muscle Brownies aren’t exactly health foods—they’re low in fiber, vitamins and minerals. Sure, “protein can help in muscle development”—but this isn’t the most calorically economical way to consume it. They’re really “value added” desserts, so handle with care!

Here’s how I rate this product (out of 5 stars):

Taste: 5.0/5.0

Quality: 3.0/5.0

Efficacy: 2.5/5.0

Value: 4.0/5.0

Overall: 3.5/5.0

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The Kashi line of food products are a familiar sight in US supermarkets. The original “Kashi” was a pilaf composed of 7 whole grains and sesame seed—a blend still utilized in the majority of cold/hot cereals, snack foods and frozen meals currently marketed by the company. Kashi’s marketing explicitly equates “natural” and high-fiber with “healthy.” As the company claims: “Everyone has the right to healthy food. Helping people make healthy changes is the reason we get up in the morning.”

Manufacturer Description: “At Kashi, we believe that everyone has the power to make positive, healthy lifestyle changes. But staying committed to healthy eating and exercise isn’t easy. That’s why we developed GOLEAN, an assortment of delicious, convenient food options, to be and easy part of your committment to a healthier, leaner you.

GOLEAN Shake Mix is a delicious way to start the day or snack on the go. Just mix with water or milk, or blend with your favorite fruit to create your own smoothie.

What makes GOLEAN effective? GOLEAN shakes are designed with our unique combination of protein and fiber to help you stay satisfied. And they have the great taste of all natural ingredients so you look forward to enjoying them.”

Serving Size: 60g Servings Per Container: About 7 Amount/Serving Calories 220 Calories from Fat 5 Total Fat 1g Saturated Fat 0g Trans Fat 0g Cholesterol 0mg Sodium 120mg Potassium 520mg	Total Carbohydrate 32g Fiber 7g Sugars 23g Protein 21g Vitamin A 35% Vitamin C 50% Calcium 40% Iron 25% Vitamin D 35% Vitamin E 50% Vitamin K 25% Thiamin 35%	Riboflavin 35% Niacin 35% Vitamin B6 35% Folic Acid 30% Vitamin B12 35% Biotin 35% Pantothenic Acid 35% Phosphorus 40% Iodine 35% Magnesium 40% Zinc 15%
Ingredients: Soy Protein Concentrate, Evaporated Cane Juice, Gum Acacia, Cocoa Treated With Alkali, Calcium Carbonate, Natural Flavor, Calcium Phosphate, Soy Lecithin, Carrageenan, Chicory Root Fiber, Magnesium Phosphate, Uva Ursi (Bearberry Extract), Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Grape Seed Extract, Panax Ginseng, Niacinamide, Alpha Tocopherol Acetate, Calcium Pantothenate, Zinc Oxide, Vitamin A Palmitate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Thiamin Hydrochloride (Vitamin B1), Whey Caseinate, Folic Acid, Biotin, Potassium Iodide, Sodium Molybdate, Vitamin K (Phytonadione), Sodium Selenite, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12

Comments: The GOLEAN shakes are a departure from the company formula: they contain none of the whole grains used in most of the other Kashi products. In fact, the majority of the carbs in the shake mix are from plain old sugar…and sugar is sugar, regardless of whether it comes from the whitest of crystals or “evaporated cane juice.” The shakes are high in fiber, but it comes from chicory root. Chicory root has been used as a coffee substitute for many years, and contains approx. 20% inulin: a soluble fiber and prebiotic (i.e., fiber that encourages the growth of beneficial, probiotic bacteria in the gut).

I tried the chocolate shake mix, which cost approx. $13 at the local drugstore. As it turns out, buying it over-the-counter is more expensive than ordering it direct from the company—which sells a pack of 4 canisters for $38.99 ($9.75/per unit). Online retailers such as Vitacost or Vitamin Shoppe also sell individual units for approx $11 each. Each canister contains about 7 servings.

There are sufficient gums and stabilizers in the mix to make a reasonably thick, smooth, shake-like drink when blended in water, but it tasted flat…it was much better blended into nonfat milk. Even so, it was more cocoa-flavored than “chocolate”: the taste was decent but not delicious. It was fairly satisfying, though. After drinking it, it kept me going for a good 3 hours—about right for a “meal” for me.

Nonetheless, as meal replacements go, GOLEAN is nothing special. The bulk of the carbs come from nutrient-free sugar and purified fiber, not whole grains. This is in contrast with some of the better meal replacement powders, such as iSatori’s Eat Smart, ProLab’s Naturally Lean Complex or Labrada Lean Body…GOLEAN is really just a high protein version of Slim Fast.

Here’s how I rate this product (out of 5 stars):

Taste: 2.5/5.0

Quality: 2.5/5.0

Efficacy: 3.5/5.0

Value: 3.0/5.0

Overall: 3.0/5.0

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Metabolife is a well-known manufacturer of over-the-counter diet supplements. AquaSlim is a little different than its other products, however. In essence, it’s a diet pill in drink form: you knock back a bottle before each meal rather than take a capsule or tablet. AquaSlim is sold in “on-the-go” 4 packs, similar to many other bottled drinks. It appears to be a stand-alone product…although Metabolife claims it’s a part of its “two-stage weight management program” there’s no info on the site to describe precisely where it fits in.

Manufacturer Description: “Quench your goals! Metabolife® AquaSlim™ is a breakthrough new supplement that helps you hydrate, strengthen bones and curb your appetite in a single serving.*

Staying hydrated is an important part of any diet and exercise plan. New Metabolife® AquaSlim™ is made with spring water containing naturally occurring calcium. In addition, Metabolife® AquaSlim™ contains plant extracts that help curb your appetite, making it the perfect addition to your weight management plan.* Try Metabolife® AquaSlim™ in either mixed berry, or pineapple & orange flavor.

The key ingredient in Metabolife® AquaSlim™ is Super CitriMax®, which has been clinically shown to suppress appetite without the use of stimulants, helping reinforce your efforts to stay fit and trim.* Another benefit of Metabolife® AquaSlim™ is that when taken as directed, you can get almost 50% of your recommended daily intake of calcium. Drink thin with Metabolife® AquaSlim™.”

Serving Size 16.9 fl. oz. (500ml)
Amount Per Serving/% Daily Value
Calories 20
Calcium (as hydroxycitrate) 148mg 15%
Potassium (as hydroxycitrate) 116mg 3%
Proprietary Blend
(SuperCitriMax®) 833mg
Hydroxycitric acid (HCA) 500mg

Other Ingredients: Water, citric acid, natural flavors, potassium benzoate, beta carotene, sucralose, and red cabbage (color).

Suggested Use: Drink 1 bottle 30 minutes prior to each meal (3 bottles per day).

Comments: I bought a 4-pack of the “Mixed Berry” flavor at my local supermarket for $5.99 US. It was pretty good, actually: thirst-quenching and moderately sweet, with a subtle berry flavor. There was also a slight, “peppery” finish to it, which I assume was due to the hydroxycitric acid (HCA). This didn’t detract from the flavor—rather, the effect was more like light carbonation.

I thought it was mildly satiating…I drank a bottle shortly before lunch, and while it didn’t turn off my hunger completely, it did dial it down a bit.

AquaSlim contains SuperCitrimax, a form of hydroxycitric acid that appears to have some positive effects on fat loss, at least in short term studies. One catch, however, is that the study subjects received 4,667 mg of SuperCitriMax per day (providing 2,800 mg of HCA). Consumed as directed, AquaSlim provides approx. one-half that amount. While Metabolife’s other “Stage One” supplements (which also contain SuperCitrimax) could make up the deficit, there is nothing in the directions or available guidance on the site to confirm this.

In addition, there’s the cost to consider: as Paul notes in his HCA overview, SuperCitrimax itself is pretty cheap. You can get 90 capsules of NOW SuperCitrimax from bodybuilding.com for $9.99 US, and each capsule contains just a little less than a bottle of AquaSlim (750mg vs. 833mg). If you do the math, the NOW product provides the HCA equivalent of 81 bottles of AquaSlim. That’s roughly 12 cents a serving, vs. $1.50 a serving for Metabolife product.

In other words, AquaSlim is a pretty darned expensive way to take HCA.

As a light, decent-tasting “value-added” drink, AquaSlim could be just the ticket: it’s low in calories, and—taken as directed—is a decent source of calcium. But as an HCA supplement, AquaSlim is vastly overpriced: a “straight” capped product like the one offered by NOW would be a much better bet.

Here’s how we rate this product (out of 5 stars):

Taste: 4.0/5.0

Quality: 4.0/5.0

Efficacy: 1.0/5.0

Value: 1.0/5.0

Overall: 2.5/5.0

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