In my busy academic life, filled with research, writing, and teaching, finding a way to lose weight that fits into my packed schedule was tough. Sitting a lot for work and often eating late made it hard to stick to regular diets or exercise. But after trying everything from Keto to weight loss injections and experimenting with quick fixes like diet pills and slimming drinks, I've finally found something that really works for me. I'm excited to share this with anyone who's been in the same boat.
Updated March 2024
Before weight loss. 182 lbs. June 9, 2023.
After weight loss. 130 lbs. Jan 5, 2024.
Want the short version? I tried 9 different weight loss methods - my top picks are shown in the image below. Click to skip to the winner
I reviewed all these weight loss methods, and the Meal Replacement Shake came out on top.
I'm Emilie, an academic in my thirties. My world revolves around teaching, researching, and writing—rewarding yet challenging, leaving little room for much else.
Ona different note, I’ve been struggling with my weight. Always a bit heavier, I never matched up to those slim ideals we see everywhere. My journey's been full of ups and downs—trying every diet you can think of, Keto, Paleo, Intermittent Fasting, you name it.
I've felt the hunger, ridden the waves of cravings, and dealt with the anxiety of not seeing the numbers on the scale go down.
In moments of desperation, I've grabbed at quick fixes—diet pills, slimming drinks, even prescription meds like Ozempic. Sure, I'd lose a bit of weight, feel that short-lived triumph, but then, it all came back, sometimes more than I lost.
The struggle was real. Constant hunger, battling cravings, the cycle of short success followed by gaining it all back (and then some) was exhausting. It wasn't just about finding a "healthier me" but about shedding the weight, feeling lighter, and escaping the endless loop of dieting despair.
During my weight loss journey. 171 – 154 lbs. Aug. 4 - Oct. 19 2023.
Lineup of all the weight loss methods that I tested.
After looking over a bunch of weight loss methods, I decided to take this research project of mine through two different stages.
Stage 1 – how to quickly lose weight?
Stage 2 – how to maintain weight loss?
My Top 5 Weight Loss Solutions: In case you're short on time, here are my top 5 choices:
Meal Replacement Superfood Shake, Intermittent Fasting 16/8, Keto Diet, Paleo Diet, Weight Loss Injection.
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Happy to finally find the weight loss method that is effective, sustainable and healthy.
After trying so many ways to lose weight and getting all sorts of results, I decided to make a simple chart. This chart comes from my own trials and shows what really helped me, what truly worked, what was easy to maintain, and what gave me lasting results. I've ranked the methods from most to least favoured and scored them from 5 to 1, where 5 is the top score and 1 the lowest.
Weight Loss Method
Initial Weight Loss
Weight Maintenance
Side Effects
Monthly Cost
Ease of Use
Overall Rating
Biome Secret
5 / 5
5 / 5
None
$$
Easy
5 / 5
Intermittent Fasting 16/8
4 / 5
4 / 5
Initial hunger in the morning, increased appetite
No extra cost
Easy
4 / 5
Keto Diet
4 / 5
3 / 5
Cravings for carbs, fatigue and weakness
$$
Medium
3 / 5
Paleo Diet
3 / 5
3 / 5
Reduced energy levels, digestive issues
$$
Hard
3 / 5
Weight Loss Injections
5 / 5
1 / 5
Stomach pain, vomiting, constipation
$$$$
Easy
2 / 5
Right from the start, I decided against fast solutions like juice cleanses, detoxes, diet pills, and fat burners.
These quick fixes seemed promising at first but soon showed their true colors. The juice diet left me constantly hungry, making it clear it wasn't sustainable. Detox plans promised to clear toxins and speed up weight loss but just made me feel weak and malnourished. And while diet pills and fat burners offered an easy way out, their jittery effects and heart risks were alarming, proving they were far from a healthy choice.
After trying these quick fixes, I saw they weren't the answer. Often, I'd end up heavier than before, feeling worse in both body and mind. I realised fast weight loss wasn't worth losing my health or energy over. I needed a lasting, healthy way to lose weight, focusing on good food and habits, not just quick fixes that don't last.
Feeling desperate about my weight loss I tried quick fixes with no sustainable result.
During my weight loss journey, I discovered a fundamental truth that became my mantra: it's essentially about calories in versus calories out. But it's not just about counting calories; it's about understanding the value of what those calories are made of.
In learning about calorie quality, I started choosing foods that kept me fuller for longer and improved my health. For instance, I leaned towards protein-rich foods like chicken, fish, and legumes, which helped curb my hunger and maintain energy. I also upped my intake of fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, to aid digestion and boost gut health.These choices meant I could stay satisfied without constantly thinking about food, all while supporting my body's overall well-being.
My Top 5 picks that were successful for immediate affect & long term.
I decided to try out my top 5 weight loss methods to see which one really worked for me. I didn't just want to see the pounds drop; I also wanted to see how well each method fit into my everyday life. I checked out each one by looking at how fast I lost weight, how long it stayed off, if there were any bad side effects, how much it cost, and how easy it was to make it part of my daily routine.
Here is my own weight loss method evaluation methodology that I took into consideration:
Why I Chose Meal Replacement Superfood Shake for Weight Loss
In my busy life with work and research, finding a way to lose weight without extra stress seemed impossible. I was always bloated, hungry from dieting, tired, and found it hard to concentrate. Then, I found the Biome Secret Meal Replacement Shake. It was simple and had everything I needed nutrition-wise, which was great because I didn't want the fuss of normal diets.The idea of having a healthy meal easily every day, without losing taste or wasting time in cooking, really drew me in.
My Weight Loss Experience Using Meal Replacement Superfood Shake
Using the Biome Secret Meal Replacement Shake from the beginning, I quickly noticed a huge change—I dropped about 16 pounds in just the first month. It felt like I'd hit a reset button on my body. Then, I found a steady pace, losing around 2 pounds each week.
Before this shake, I was so tired of the endless diet routine—always planning meals, shopping for specific ingredients, and spending too much time prepping food. It was too much, especially with my full academic life. But with this shake, things got simpler. Just one meal replacement a day cut down all that stress. It fit right into my busy schedule effortlessly.
The shake was a real fill-me-up, packed with protein, which kept hunger at bay. It gave me a much-needed energy boost and sharpened my focus, helping me ditch those slump moments in the middle of the day. The best part? I didn't have to give up enjoying the foods I love and enjoy traditional Saturday dinners with my friends and family.
Biome Secret Superfood shake forweight loss preparation process is super easy.
Summary
Finding the Biome Secret Meal Replacement Shake was a turning point. The benefits were immediately clear. Not only did I start to lose weight, but I also noticed a significant reduction in bloating and relief from constipation—issues that had been constant annoyances. Unlike other diets, this shake helped me shed fat, thanks to its high protein content.
Each serving was like a powerhouse of nutrition, delivering 80% of my daily protein needs along with 27 essential vitamins and minerals. It offered more fiber than I would get from three heads of broccoli, ensuring my digestive health was at its best with the added support of prebiotics, probiotics, and digestive enzymes. What impressed me was the commitment to quality, with whole-food sourced ingredients and a complete absence of gluten, GMOs, lactose, nuts, soy, hormones, added sugars, and trans fats.
The shake didn't justcontribute to my physical health; it also supercharged my energy levels andboosted my mental performance. It was a 360-degree approach to feeling better.Incorporating it into my daily life felt natural and easy. This wasn't just anotherdietary supplement; it was a lifestyle change that brought tangible, positivechanges to my well-being and weight loss.
Why I Chose Intermittent Fasting 16/8 for Weight Loss
I chose Intermittent Fasting 16/8 because it sounded easy and not too strict. The idea was to just watch when I eat, not stress over every bite. It seemed like it could fit into my busy life nicely.
My Weight Loss Experience Using Intermittent Fasting 16/8
Kicking off with the 16-hour fasting each day wasn't easy. With thismethod, I was not eating for 16 hours each day and restricted the eating windowto 8 hours. Early mornings were the hardest; my academic work demands a lot ofmental energy, and there I was, trying to concentrate while my stomach waspractically screaming for food. Despite these challenging starts, the structuregradually led me to make smarter food choices naturally. I managed to shed 8pounds, noticed I had more energy throughout the day, and overall felt asignificant boost in my well-being. The true test came with the irregular hoursof my academic life—juggling lectures, research, and meetings made adhering toa strict fasting window more complex than I anticipated.
My daily reminder on the fridge that helped me to stay on track.
Summary
At first, Intermittent Fasting 16/8 was great for me. It made me more mindful of my eating habits and I steadily lost weight. However, as time passed, balancing the strict eating schedule with my demanding work and social life grew challenging. While it instilled valuable lessons in discipline, I realised that intermittent fasting alone wasn't a silver bullet. To maintain my progress, I discovered the necessity of integrating it with a supportive diet approach—be it Keto, Paleo, or Meal Replacement Shake. This combination proved to be the flexible, effective solution I needed.
What I liked
Quick Weight Loss: 10 pounds drop during the first few weeks.
Reduced Cravings: My cravings for sweets and carbs diminished noticeably.
Mental Clarity: Experienced periods of increased focus and clarity.
Rich Foods: Enjoyed being able to eat foods rich in fats and proteins that are usually not diet-friendly.
What could be better
Keto Flu: The first few days were brutal, with headaches, fatigue, andirritability as my body adjusted to ketosis.
Sustainability Concerns: Found it hard to see this as a long-term lifestyle choice due to the strict limitations.
Restricted Diet: The limited variety of allowed foods became monotonous. I missed fruits and whole grains terribly.
Impact on Social Life: It was tough to eat out or join family meals without having to explain my dietary restrictions.
Digestive Issues: The high fat intake led to stomach discomfort and irregularity.
Gained more weight after I stop diet: Once I eased up on the diet, the weight came back quickly.
Why I Chose Keto Diet
My interest in the Keto diet sparked when a colleague, who is also trying to lose weight, suggested we try it together. She highlighted its popularity for quick results, and the idea of eating more fats and fewer carbs to switch hour bodies to burn fat instead of sugar intrigued us both. We thought sharing the experience, swapping recipes, and even snacks would make the journey easier and more enjoyable.
My Weight Loss Experience on Keto Diet
In the early days of the keto diet, I quickly lost 10 pounds and shifted to a diet heavy in bacon, cheese, eggs, steak, and chicken—a big change for someone who typically follows a plant-based, whole-food diet. Eating processed pork every morning was a stark departure from my usual habits. The challenge of sticking to just 20 grams of carbs a day soon hit hard, making me miss simple joys like apples and carrots. Cutting carbs so drastically also made me realize how overly sweet my old favorites now seemed.
Having a friend to share the keto journey with was invaluable. We helped each other stay on track, even when keeping under the 20-gram limit felt nearly impossible. This experience, though difficult, taught me a lot about food choices, cravings, and the importance of support when making significant lifestyle changes.
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Here is a glimpse of what my daily meals look like as I work towards shedding those pounds being on Keto diet: Salmon with broccoli, Baked zucchini, Keto pancakes with strawberries
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Summary
I realised after a while that sticking to the Keto diet all the time just wasn't doable for me. It was tough to always follow such a strict plan, and when I stopped, I gained back the weight I had lost, and then some. I won't be keeping to a Keto meal plan for the long haul—eating that much bacon isn't something I can do. However, I do see myself giving it another go a few times a year. At the very least, this month-long trial taught me to cut back on sugar and processed carbs. I'd suggest this diet for short-term, quick weight loss if you have an important event coming up and want to look a bit slimmer.
What I liked
Weight Loss: 8 pounds of weight loss initially.
Natural Eating: Enjoyed focusing on whole, unprocessed foods like meats, fruits, and vegetables.
Improved Digestion: Noticed better digestion and less bloating.
Simple Guidelines: The diet's rules were straightforward—eat foods that could be hunted orgathered, which made grocery shopping easier.
What could be better
Weight Gain After Stopping: After deciding to stop the Paleo diet, I quickly gained back the weight I had lost, plus some extra.
Costly: The emphasis on organic and grass-fed foods significantly increased my grocery bills.
Restrictive: Found it hard to maintain due to the exclusion of grains, dairy, and legumes, which limited my meal options.
Social Challenges: Eating out or attending social gatherings was difficult, as many common foods are off-limits on this diet.
Missed Variety: Began to miss the diversity of foods not allowed, especially grains and dairy, which I used to enjoy.
Why I Chose Paleo Diet
I was drawn to the Paleo Diet because it felt like a simple, healthy way to eat. The idea was to eat like our ancestors by cutting out modern processed foods and sticking to meats, vegetables, and fruits. This approach seemed like it could help me lose weight and also feed my body the good stuff it really needs.
My Weight Loss Experience on Paleo Diet
Switching to the Paleo Diet, I started feeling better, with less bloating and improved digestion. But following the diet closely was tough. Planning meals that fit Paleo rules and still tasted good took a lot of work. Eating out or going to parties was hard because it felt like my food choices were so limited compared to everyone else's.
Also, my grocery bill went up since I was eating more meat and fish. At the start, I really missed sugar, and those first few days were the toughest. But after getting through that, my cravings for sweets went away and didn't come back. Breakfast was a challenge too; I didn't realize how much I relied on sugar, grains, and carbs until I couldn't have my usual cereal, pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal. I ended up eating a lot of eggs and avocados, but to keep things interesting, I sometimes switched to fresh smoothies. Trying to find takeout that fit the Paleo diet was another hurdle, especially at work where only a few places offered suitable options.
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Here is a glimpse of what my daily meals look like as I work towards shedding pounds being on Paleo diet: Beef steak with salads, Salmon with sweet potatoes & tomatoes, Guacamole with carrots, celery, and bell peppers
Summary
Trying the Paleo Diet made me think more about eating healthy and choosing better foods. It pushed me to eat better and be more careful with what I eat. But, it was hard to keep up with all its rules, especially with a busy life and hanging out with friends. This made me see that the diet was too limiting for me. I learned a lot about eating whole foods and why that's good, but in the end, I wanted something easier to follow that didn't make me feel so restricted.
What I liked
Effective Weight Loss: Started seeing weight loss results quickly.
Reduced Appetite: My hunger levels dropped significantly, making it easier to eat less without feeling deprived.
Convenience: Just a weekly injection, which was much simpler than remembering daily pills or sticking to a strict diet.
Improved Blood Sugar Levels: Noticed my blood sugar levels were more stable.
What could be better
Bad Side Effects: Experienced some nausea, digestion issues and stomach pain.
Temporary Solution: Worried that the weight might come back if I stopped the injections, questioning the long-term sustainability.
Cost: The injections were expensive, making it a significant financial consideration.
Injection Site Reactions: Sometimes the area where I injected would get red and itchy.
Medical Dependency: Felt uneasy about relying on a medication for weight loss rather than lifestyle changes alone.
Why I Chose Weight Loss Injection - Ozempic
After years of struggling with my weight and trying every diet under the sun, I felt stuck. My doctor mentioned Ozempic, primarily used for diabetes but noted for its weight loss benefits in patients. The thought of a simple injection doing what years of dieting couldn't was both intriguing and a glimmer of hope. My decision was also swayed by stories from friends and online testimonials praising its effectiveness.
My Weight Loss Experience on Weight Loss Injection - Ozempic
Starting Ozempic was a leap of faith. The weekly injections were straight forward, and I quickly adapted to the routine. In the first few months,I noticed a significant decrease in my appetite, which made smaller portions satisfying and curbed my snacking habits. Gradually, the weight started to come off, and my energy levels increased. However, it wasn't all smooth sailing. The side effects, particularly nausea and occasional digestive discomfort, were challenging at times but became more manageable as my body adjusted. Despite these hurdles, the consistent weight loss and improved health markers kept me motivated.
On October 2nd 2023 I began my weight loss journey using Ozempic. As on January 2nd 2024 I’m officially down 30 pounds.
Summary
My time with Ozempic was eye-opening, revealing that the path to weight loss is not without its dark sides. While it did aid in shedding pounds, the downsides were significant and, at times, overshadowed the benefits. The financial cost alone was a burden, but the side effects were far more troubling. Nausea, stomach pain, and vomiting were just the start; the possibility of severe complications like pancreatitis, kidney failure, gallbladder disease, and gastroparesis loomed large, making the decision to continue the medication fraught with anxiety.
The necessity to potentially stay on the medication indefinitely to avoid weight regain added another layer of complexity, underscoring the harsh reality that this "solution" comes with strings attached. The severe health risks, some of which could lead to hospitalisation or demand further medical attention, highlighted the stark trade-offs involved in using Ozempic for weight loss. This journey was a stark reminder that what might seem like a quick fix for weight loss can carry consequences that demand serious consideration.
Out of all weight loss methods tried, ultimately chose Biome Secret meal replacement shakes for weight loss.
In my quest to lose weight, I've pretty much tried everything you can think of fasting, the Keto diet, the Paleo diet, and even weight loss injections like Ozempic. Each of these methods came with its own set of drawbacks. Fasting helped me drop a few pounds, but it messed with my gut and left me bloated all the time. Keto was quick with results but made me miss carbs like crazy. Paleo was too restrictive, making me crave grains and dairy, and Ozempic, though effective, had side effects like nausea and stomach pain that just weren't worth it.
Then I found the Biome Secret Meal Replacement Shake, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer. This shake felt like I was feeding my body everything good it had been missing out on. Imagine getting the protein you'd find in a whole chicken breast, the fiber of three whole heads of broccoli, and all the vitamins and minerals of a huge, colourful salad, all in one tasty drink. It was more than just a convenient meal substitute; it was like a nutritional treasure trove that slotted right into my daily life without any hassle.
What really set this shake apart for me was how it tackled all my weight loss and health needs in one go. It helped me lose weight and keep it off by burning fat. The bloating and constipation I suffered from during my fasting attempts. Gone, thanks to the shake's rich fiber content, along with a helpful mix of prebiotics, probiotics, and digestive enzymes that got my gut health back on track. No more feeling like I was five months pregnant all the time!
But the benefits didn't stop there. I was supercharging my body with 80% of my daily protein needs and 27 essential vitamins and minerals every single day. And the best part? It was all from whole-food sourced ingredients, without any of the stuff I try to avoid, like gluten, GMOs, lactose, nuts, soy, hormones, added sugars, and trans fats.
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Out of all weight loss methods tried ultimately chose Biome Secret Meal Replacement Superfood Shake for weight loss.
So, when I weigh all my options, choosing the Biome Secret Meal Replacement Shake is a no-brainer. It's not just another product; it's a comprehensive health boost that's perfect for anyone looking to lose weight and feel amazing. After all the diets and plans I've tried, nothing has made me feel as good as this shake. It's been a real winner for me.
STARTING WEIGHT JUNE 9TH
CURRENT WEIGHT DECEMBER 30TH
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Out of all weight loss methods tried ultimately chose Biome Secret Meal Replacement Superfood Shake for weight loss.
From a shy girl, burdened with complexes, I've blossomed into a confident woman, who no longer fears wearing a bikini at the beach and cannot wait to step into the world of dating with newfound confidence.
Weight Loss Method
Initial Weight Loss
Weight Maintenance
Side Effects
Monthly Cost
Ease of Use
Overall Rating
Biome Secret
5 / 5
5 / 5
None
$$
Easy
5 / 5
Intermittent Fasting 16/8
4 / 5
4 / 5
Initial hunger in the morning, increased appetite
No extra cost
Easy
4 / 5
Keto Diet
4 / 5
3 / 5
Cravings for carbs, fatigue and weakness
$$
Medium
3 / 5
Paleo Diet
3 / 5
3 / 5
Reduced energy levels, digestive issues
$$
Hard
3 / 5
Weight Loss Injections
5 / 5
1 / 5
Stomach pain, vomiting, constipation
$$$$
Easy
2 / 5
Weight loss solutions tested, but ruled out due to poor results for the effort spent
Juice Diet
1 / 5
1 / 5
Constant hunger
$$
Easy
1 / 5
Detox Diet
1 / 5
1 / 5
Often flt weak and dizzy
$
Hard
1 / 5
Diet Pills
1 / 5
1 / 5
Jitteriness, disrupted sleep
$$$$
Easy
1 / 5
Fat Burners
1 / 5
1 / 5
Increased heart rate
$$$$
Easy
1 / 5
