The Appeal and Pitfalls of Liquid Meals: A Thorough Examination of the Health Effects of Liquid Diets: Is Saving Time a Virtue or Is Fullness an Illusion?

Introduction—The Background of "A Meal by Just Drinking"

Busy mornings, lunchtime on the go, late-night returns from overtime—filling these gaps, "Trinkmahlzeit" (drinking meals) are becoming widespread. A report compiled by the German regional media Fehmarn24 on November 5, 2025, points out that while it is a "better choice when in a hurry," caution is needed for regular use. The core of the examination is a test of six products by the consumer organization Stiftung Warentest.fehmarn24.de

Essence of the Test—"Better than Junk" but Not a "Substitute for Daily Meals"

Warentest's conclusion is clear: "When you don't have time, it's better than currywurst + potatoes + mayo." Many products have vitamin and mineral designs that generally align with recommended amounts, and the fat content is within acceptable ranges. However, they caution against "always relying on this," for three main reasons (detailed later). The key points with the same intent are reiterated in national newspaper distributions and news sites, with specific values in the articles (such as sugar and calorie content mentioned later) aligning.fehmarn24.de　handelsblatt.com

Three Points of Caution

1. Tendency for Excessive Protein
   Even if the base differs, such as from milk, peas, or oats, they are generally designed to be high in protein. While there are few immediate issues for healthy individuals, those with declining kidney function may experience increased burden.fehmarn24.de

2. "No Added Sugar" Still Means Sugar—Blood Sugar Spikes and Hunger
   Even without added sugar, sugar derived from ingredients can reach up to 30g per 500mL, as reported. Short-chain carbohydrates are absorbed quickly and may not be suitable for (pre)diabetic individuals. It is also pointed out that **hunger (Heißhunger)** is likely to occur when blood sugar drops.fehmarn24.de

3. The Disadvantage of "Not Chewing"
   The act of chewing itself stimulates the satiety center. Since liquids can be consumed quickly, there is concern that satisfaction is lower for the same calories, leading to an increase in total intake. A single meal from major brands is 400–515kcal, which is closer to "a full meal" rather than "a light main dish."fehmarn24.de

Examples of Typical Nutritional Designs

In external product comparison articles, design examples such as 500mL = about 500kcal / sugar 22g / protein 34g / dietary fiber 8g are shown. Even if the PFC looks good, the absolute amount of sugar should not be underestimated.FAZ.NET

Artificial Sweeteners and Appetite—"Does Zero Calories Still Make You Hungry?"

The artificial sweetener sucralose may enhance brain signals that "increase hunger," as reported in a 2025 study (led by USC, with participation from the University of Tübingen and others) and in popular explanations. Findings indicate that hypothalamic activity and subjective hunger increased before and after a drink, suggesting it is "not a panacea" from a weight management perspective.medizin.uni-tuebingen.de

Reactions on Social Media—Between "Convenience" and "Boredom & Insufficiency"

Positive

• Time and Effort Saving: Reviews mention it is optimal when "weight loss, savings, and convenience" align. Established as an "emergency food" for work or study.Reddit

• Examples of Continued Use: Reports of long-term use for 2.5 years, although individual differences are significant.Reddit

• Plant-Based Options: Daily use is also voiced within the vegan community. There are hits and misses in taste, and finding "your flavor" is key.Reddit

Negative/Challenges

• Satisfaction (Chewing): "Cannot compare to the 'experience' of a warm home-cooked meal." Liquid-centered meals lead to comments about not feeling like one has "eaten."Reddit

• Monotony and Changes in Taste: Community discussions express dissatisfaction with taste changes due to product improvements.Reddit

• Concerns About Sugar and Sweeteners: Posts and explanations expressing worry about "appetite stimulation" due to sugar equivalents and the use of sucralose are scattered.DER STANDARD

In communities like Reddit, there are many long-form testimonials, repeatedly discussing the trade-off between "convenience" and "satisfaction and enjoyment" (see sources above).

How to Use It Wisely?—A Practical Guide

• Carry as Insurance for "Emergency Food, Travel Food, Busy Days": Introduce it as a spot solution "a few times a week" rather than daily.fehmarn24.de

• Add "Chewing Elements": Enhance satisfaction by adding a small amount of something to chew, like a handful of nuts, raw vegetable sticks, or whole-grain crackers, rather than just the drink alone. *General advice.

• Estimate Sugar and Calories: Some products are around 500kcal per 500mL. Balance the sugar and total calories with other meals.FAZ.NET

• Considerations for Target Users: Those with kidney function concerns should be cautious of high protein, and (pre)diabetics should be wary of blood sugar spikes and hunger. Consult a healthcare provider if unsure.fehmarn24.de

• Compatibility with Sweeteners: If you feel increased hunger with sucralose, switch to products with no or low sweetness or different sweeteners.medizin.uni-tuebingen.de

Market Sentiment—The Current State of "Smart Processed Foods"

The nutritional design of the products is becoming more sophisticated each year, with the mainstream being high protein + medium fat + moderate dietary fiber. Meanwhile, "sugar levels of 22–30g" and "around 500kcal" are not uncommon, and the common message in various articles and comparisons this term is that "reading the label and matching it to the scene" is key.FAZ.NET

Conclusion

• It functions well as "insurance" for busy days. However, complete substitution for regular use is not recommended.

• The blind spots are sugar content, blood sugar fluctuations, and lack of chewing. Make efforts to control meal satisfaction and total intake.

• Individual Differences (compatibility with sweeteners, satisfaction, GI issues) are repeatedly shared on social media. It seems wise to first determine "when to use it" and use it smartly.fehmarn24.de