What the Heck is Isagenix?
Updated: Jan. 07, 2023Here's everything you need to know about the company flooding your Facebook feed.
From herbal supplements and Advocare to the Dash and Keto diets, there’s always something new on the market for those looking to lose weight, boost energy or improve overall wellness. Want to cut through all the clutter? Peggy Woodward, RDN breaks down the best approach to healthy eating.
And with the ease of sharing what works for us online, it’s no wonder some products and trends go viral. Founded in 2002, Isagenix isn’t new. But if it’s been flooding your Facebook feed recently, you may be wondering what it’s all about. Here’s what you need to know about the company.
What is Isagenix?
The company offers a variety of supplements and products for weight loss, athletic performance, healthy aging and energy. (Feeling run down? Here are eight foods that boost your energy levels.) Dedicated to offering science-backed products, Isagenix has a Scientific Advisory Board composed of doctors and nutrition experts who help ensure products are top quality.
According to their website, Isagenix is committed to helping customers improve wellness and gain financial freedom. The company uses a multi-level marketing model to distribute products through their customers.
How the Program Works
At the core of the weight loss offering are the 9-day and 30-day systems. At $207.94, the 9-day system aims to boost weight loss by cleansing and nourishing the body. The 30-day system comes in at $378.50 and is for individuals who want to use a long-term program to lose weight.
In each system, customers alternate between shake days and cleanse days. On a shake day, customers replace two meals with a protein shake and eat one meal of 400-600 calories. The protein shakes and bars offer the proper balance of protein, fats and carbohydrates, along with vitamins and minerals. According to Isagenix, the meal replacements “take all of the guesswork out of proper weight management and muscle maintenance.”
On cleanse days, customers consume a cleanse drink four times a day and eat approved snacks. (Looking for protein-packed snacks? Here’s a roundup of energy-boosting favorites.) Each system also includes additional supplements for energy, protein and weight loss.
While the price may deter some, Isagenix claims the cost of the 30-day system is less than one month of groceries and eating out, making it an economical option for consumers.
Isagenix cites two studies (both partially funded by Isagenix) that support their products and wellness model. In one study, researchers concluded combining intermittent fasting, calorie reduction and liquid meals is an effective strategy to help obese women lose weight.
The Benefits
Isagenix is a convenient plan that makes it easy for customers to follow a calorie-reduction and fasting diet. The company also offers a wide variety of products that goes beyond weight loss to help consumers achieve holistic wellness.
We’ve all heard the best way to lose weight is to eat a balanced diet and increase exercise. But for those needing an extra boost to kickstart their weight loss, Isagenix may be the program for them.
The Negatives
Casting aside any skepticism of the company’s multi-level marketing (read: pyramid) approach, Isagenix is, at its core, a meal replacement program.
Instead of intaking calories and nutrients you’d gain by eating fruits, veggies and other healthy whole foods—this program delivers the good stuff through pills and powdered shakes. With a hefty price tag to boot, why not opt for a big bowl of bright leafy greens or healthy snack to help curb your hunger?
Though, this program might be an answer for those who need an extra boost to kickstart their weight loss goals, Isagenix is likely not the best long-term option for leading a healthy lifestyle. That means losing the weight and keeping it off for good,  For a lifetime of wellness, our staff registered dietitian has great advice, “Healthy eating doesn’t mean cutting out whole food groups, feeling deprived or eating food that doesn’t taste good,” says Peggy Woodward, RDN. In the end, it’s all about finding a balance that works for you.
