Stevia's Role in Shakeology's Sweetener System
Shakeology employs a multi-faceted approach to sweetening its shakes, prioritizing plant-based ingredients over artificial alternatives. The primary non-nutritive sweetener is stevia, specifically high-grade stevia Reb M in the newer 0g Added Sugar formula. This choice is deliberate, as stevia is a natural, plant-derived compound that provides sweetness without adding calories or impacting blood sugar levels. In older or original formulations, stevia leaf extract was used alongside organic cane sugar for a balanced sweetness profile. The newer 0g Added Sugar shakes rely solely on stevia (Reb M) and monk fruit for their sweetness.
Why Shakeology Uses Stevia
There are several reasons why Shakeology includes stevia in its ingredient list. The main benefit is that it allows the product to maintain a sweet flavor profile without relying heavily on added sugars. This is especially important for consumers who are monitoring their sugar intake or those seeking a lower-calorie option. Furthermore, stevia has a different chemical structure than table sugar, so it doesn't cause the same glycemic response. For some, this is a major factor in choosing a nutritional shake. The company also promotes stevia as part of its commitment to using natural, plant-based ingredients, distancing itself from artificial sweeteners like aspartame or sucralose.
What About the Taste?
Stevia is known for having a polarizing taste, and this is true for many users of Shakeology as well. The original formulations, which combined stevia with organic cane sugar, offered a more balanced sweetness. However, in the 0g Added Sugar versions, where high-grade Reb M stevia is used, some users report a slightly different flavor profile. The company states that this specific extract offers a taste closer to sugar with less of the characteristic stevia aftertaste. User experiences with the flavor can vary widely, with some finding it pleasant and others noticing the unique aftertaste that stevia is known for.
A Comparison of Shakeology's Sweeteners
To better understand the different approaches, let's compare the sweetener systems in Shakeology's Original and 0g Added Sugar formulas.
| Sweetener | Shakeology Original | Shakeology 0g Added Sugar |
|---|---|---|
| Organic Cane Sugar | Yes, included to provide sweetness and balance the flavor profile. | No added organic cane sugar. |
| Stevia Leaf Extract | Yes, included as a plant-based, no-calorie sweetener. | Uses high-grade Reb M stevia, which is a specific extract with a cleaner taste. |
| Monk Fruit Extract | Yes, also included as a plant-based, no-calorie sweetener. | Yes, included alongside stevia Reb M for sweetness. |
| Fructose/Agave | Previously used in some versions, but were replaced with organic cane sugar. | Never used in this formulation. |
| Total Added Sugars | Typically includes some added sugar from the cane sugar. | Contains 0g added sugar. |
The Complete List of Shakeology Ingredients
Beyond sweeteners, Shakeology boasts a robust ingredient list featuring a variety of superfoods and nutrients. A typical scoop includes:
- Protein Blend: Includes sources like pea protein, whey protein isolate, rice protein, and quinoa, depending on the formula (vegan or whey).
- Vitamins and Minerals: A comprehensive spectrum of essential nutrients, including Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Calcium, and Iron.
- Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes: Contains ingredients like Bacillus coagulans and various enzymes to support gut health and digestion.
- Adaptogen Blend: Features botanicals like Ashwagandha, Maca, and Schisandra to help the body manage stress.
- Superfoods and Antioxidants: A long list of ingredients such as kale, spinach, chlorella, and various fruit powders provides a dense nutritional profile.
- Fiber: Includes prebiotic fibers from sources like chicory root and gum acacia to support digestion.
Navigating Stevia Sensitivity
For some individuals, the taste or effects of stevia can be a concern. Stevia sensitivity is a legitimate issue for some users, which can manifest as an off-putting aftertaste or, in rare cases, digestive issues. If you are sensitive to stevia, it's helpful to know which formulations contain it. The 0g Added Sugar version has a higher concentration of Reb M stevia, so those with sensitivities might want to start with the Original formula, which uses a more balanced blend of sweeteners. Reading the ingredient label carefully is the best way to ensure you are selecting a product that aligns with your taste and dietary needs. The manufacturer is transparent about its sweetener choices on its official website.
Conclusion
In short, the answer to the question, "Does Shakeology have stevia in it?" is a definitive yes, but with important nuances. Stevia is a key component of Shakeology's natural sweetener system, used in both its Original and 0g Added Sugar formulations alongside other plant-based sweeteners like monk fruit. For those who are sensitive to the taste of stevia or simply prefer to avoid it, it is crucial to review the specific product version. However, for most, stevia offers a valuable, calorie-free way to sweeten the shake while avoiding artificial alternatives. Always check the ingredients and consider your personal preferences when choosing the best Shakeology option for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any artificial sweeteners in Shakeology?
No, Shakeology does not contain any artificial sweeteners such as aspartame or sucralose. The company has a policy against using artificial sweeteners, colors, preservatives, or flavors in its products.
What is the difference in taste between Shakeology Original and the 0g Added Sugar version?
The 0g Added Sugar version relies solely on stevia Reb M and monk fruit for its sweetness, which some find to have a cleaner taste than standard stevia. The Original formula includes organic cane sugar alongside stevia and monk fruit, resulting in a slightly different, often more balanced, sweetness profile.
Is stevia a sugar or an artificial sweetener?
Stevia is neither a sugar nor an artificial sweetener. It is a natural, plant-based, zero-calorie sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant.
Is the stevia in Shakeology natural or processed?
Shakeology uses stevia leaf extract, which is derived from the stevia plant. In the 0g Added Sugar formula, they specifically use stevia Reb M, a high-grade, non-GMO extract.
Does stevia in Shakeology cause a bad aftertaste?
Some people may experience an aftertaste from stevia, though Shakeology's use of high-grade Reb M and monk fruit in newer formulas aims to minimize this. Taste is subjective and varies among individuals.
Do all Shakeology flavors have stevia?
Yes, all current Shakeology formulas use a plant-based sweetener system that includes stevia. The specific combination of sweeteners may vary slightly between the Original and 0g Added Sugar versions.
How can I make my Shakeology taste less like stevia?
If you are sensitive to the taste of stevia, try blending your Shakeology with fruits like a banana or adding other ingredients like unsweetened cocoa powder or nut butter, as these can help mask the stevia flavor.
