Have you heard the TV and radio commercials for Right Size Smoothies? If yes, you may have been intrigued by the claims that Right Size smoothies contain an “all natural, appetite suppressant clinically proven to knock out hunger”. I was intrigued too and that is why I decided to do some digging and see if there was any scientific proof for using this product over just making your own smoothie.
Generally I like the idea of using a smoothie to help curb appetite. Smoothies, if made correctly, tend to be light and buoyant. This means that they tend to fill you up while not containing many calories. 
This part about being “low calorie” is critical for any smoothie.
Weight loss boils down to one thing and one thing only – cutting calories. Any smoothie that is not low in calories is not going to help with weight loss. To their credit, Right Size Health and Nutrition (the company that makes Right Size Smoothies) actually mentions this fact on their website (RightSizeOnline.com) and quote a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, a well respected peer-review medical journal that shows weight loss is more about calories than carbs, protein or fat intake.
Right Size Smoothies contains about 100 calories per scoop (that’s 29 grams or about 1 oz) so, it’s fairly low in calories.
Also, to their credit, the company, points out that:
- There is no “magic bullet” for weight loss
- That weight loss is a “personal journey” and…
- That there is no “one size fits all program”
I like these statements because they are in line with the facts.
So, what can we say about these smoothies? What follows is what I could dig up on the product and, as far as I know, this is one of the first unbiased reviews of Right Size Smoothie.
What is Appemine
According to the advertisements, the active ingredient in Right Size Smoothies is a product called Appemine. You must remember that while the word, Appemine, sounds like a drug, it is not.
Rather, Appemine is a name the company has given to its proprietary blend of ingredients. I know this because when I searched the National Library of Medicine (pubmed.com) for the word “Appemine” no studies were found that contained the word Appemine. Also, when I did a Google search for “Appemine” the only stuff I saw had to do with Right Size Smoothies. That tells me, the company created the name. There is nothing wrong with this, it’s just marketing. Appemine sounds a lot like the word appetite. I’m guessing that’s why the name was chosen.
As an aside, I’ve always found it interesting that people who take supplements tend to be very much opposed to taking prescription medications; yet, supplement companies sometimes give their products drug-like sounding names. I guess this a way to boost consumer confidence in a products potency? In other words, if it sounds like a drug, people may think the FDA has reviewed it for effectiveness? I’m not sure and this is just an observation on my part. Take it for what it is.
Appemine is not a single product but is actually composed of the following ingredients, according to the company’s website:
- Guarana
- Fiber
- Cinnamon twig
- Galangal root
- Cayenne pepper fruit
- White willow bark
- 50 mg of caffeine
I’m going to assume that the ingredients are listed in order of greatest quantity to lowest since that is how things are usually listed on food labels. If my assumption is correct, then guarana is found in the highest amount, followed by fiber, cinnamon twig, and so on.
Let’s review the weight loss evidence for these ingredients individually: This is the only way we have to determine if Appemine works because, to my knowledge, there is no peer-reviewed evidence published for Appemine itself. The company’s website mentions “our research” of Appemine but does not list where the research is published. A “pilot study” (preliminary study) is also mentioned is but again, nowhere can we see where that study is published.
Guarana: This is a caffeine containing plant that shows up frequently in weight loss products. There is at least one study that guarana can help weight loss but it’s in combination with other products (not found in Right Size Smoothies). I found no peer-reviewed studies showing that guarana alone (or in combination with other ingredients in Appemine) is effective for weight loss. Nevertheless, caffeine may make people feel more awake (it does!) and a more awake person may do more physical activity, which burns more calories. That makes sense to me.
The website also says that Right Size Smoothies contain 50 mg of caffeine. It’s not clear from if this 50 mg of caffeine is in addition to the caffeine contained in guarana or not. Even though the website says Right Size Smoothies will not make you jittery, those who are sensitive to caffeine should be cautious.
Guarana is also known to interact with several medications (like blood thinner drugs for example) so check with your doctor before using.
Fiber. Fiber may help with weight loss because fiber has no calories and fills people up. So, this makes sense. Right Size Smoothies contain about 5 grams of fiber per serving. Remember there are 28 grams in 1 ounce. So, your not getting a lot of fiber but every little bit helps I suppose.
Cinnamon twig. This is basically the spice cinnamon which some research (but not all of it) hints may help lower blood sugar levels. It turns out that most studies show that cinnamon does not lower blood sugar. If you don’t believe me, here is a study you can read for yourself:
Cinnamon is generally considered safe but there is some concern that in high amounts it may damage the liver. I don’t think there is much cinnamon in Right Size Smoothies but to be safe, those with liver issues should see their doctor before using the product.
Galangal Root. This is a type of ginger. There is not much currently known about this herb and I could not find any peer reviewed studies supporting its use with weight loss.
Cayenne pepper fruit. Cayenne pepper contains Capsicum, which is the chemical that burns your mouth when you eat peppers. I’m guessing that cayenne was added to the product because of the theory that spicy foods might raise metabolic rate and help speed /promote weight loss. Whether or not this is true (I’m not convinced), I’m going to guess that the amount contained in Right Size Smoothies is not enough to do much good since cayenne is not listed as one of the top ingredients, meaning it may not contain much of this chemical. Also, the idea of a spicy weight loss drink may not appeal to everybody.
In theory cayenne may interact with blood thinner medications but again I think the possibility of this is low. Still, get your doctors OK if you use blood thinner medications because it doesn’t take much off something to alter the way blood thinners work.
White Willow Bark. This is actually a compound that is related to aspirin. Specifically, white willow bark is metabolized to aspirin in the body. White willow bark frequently shows up in weight loss products because of a belief that it works synergistically with caffeine – and ephedrine.
Bodybuilders know this combination as “ECA” which stands for ephedrine, caffeine and aspirin. There is however no ephedrine in Right Size Smoothie (that’s good!). Ephedrine is a banned substance in America. I’m guessing they added white willow bark to the product because the company feels it will help weight loss even without ephedrine. I could not locate any proof one way or another on this.
Because aspirin is a known and potent blood thinner, people who are using blood thinner medications should see their doctor or pharmacist before using Right Size Smoothies. Even though there is probably very little white willow bark in the product, even a little may be enough to “over thin” the blood resulting in disastrous consequences. Likewise, those with kidney/liver issues should also speak their doctor first.
Persons sensitive to aspirin should avoid Right Size Smoothies. One case report exists where severe, life threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) occurred in a woman after using a supplement containing white willow bark.
On other websites I see people saying that Right Size Smoothies contain bitter orange (also called Citrus aurantium) which is an ephedra look-a-like compound. This is not true. Right Size Smoothies do not contain bitter orange. That’s a good thing because bitter orange raises blood pressure and heart rate.
Caffeine. Of all the ingredients in Appemine, caffeine has the most evidence for weight loss. The problem however is that most of the research is on the combination of caffeine + ephedrine (which is currently banned from supplements in America). Also the research on caffeine (in combination with ephedrine) tends to use more than the 50 mg of caffeine found in Right Size Smoothie. For example, one study of caffeine (and ephedrine) used almost 200 mg! Caffeine would be expected to make a person more alert. As mentioned previously, this might lead to more physical activity performed and hence, more calories used.
Caffeine also has a mild fat burning effect. The fact that most studies combine caffeine with other products (like ephedrine) is a testament to its less than spectacular solo effect on weight loss.
Because Right Size Smoothies contain caffeine they should be avoided several hours before bed otherwise they may cause insomnia. Caffeine can also raise heart rate and blood pressure. Caffeine also can have multiple drug interactions so it’s always wise to consult your doctor before using any caffeine containing products.
Some have suggested that caffeine may be inappropriate for those with diabetes because of thoughts that it may make the body less able to respond to the hormone, insulin. This is admittedly, something that scientists have not fully worked out yet but I wanted to mention it just in case any diabetics are reading this.
Protein. While not touted on the website very much, Right Size Smoothies contain about 9 grams of protein per serving.That’s not a lot (remember there are 28 grams in 1 ounce).
Protein might help curb appetite because it takes longer to be digested and we humans tend to work harder (metabolically speaking) to assimilate protein; This bumps up metabolism a little bit and is the reason protein is found in many weight loss shakes and diets.
Lack of protein can contribute to sarcopenia (loss of muscle that occurs as we get older).I am, admittedly considering a worst case scenario but I wanted to mention it because as a personal trainer whose oldest “client” was my 104 year old grandmother, I’ve seen what happens when people do not eat enough calories and/or protein.
Because of the lack of calories and protein, Right Size Smoothies should not be used as a meal replacement by older adults whose goal is not weight loss.
Just for comparison you may also like to read my reviews of Shakeology and ViSalus -two other shakes which are marketed for weight loss and health.
Calories, Calories, Calories!
When you use Right Size Smoothies, the website recommends replacing 2 meals a day with 2 smoothies. So, you could have a smoothie for breakfast and a smoothie for lunch and a regular dinner.
Each Right Size Smoothie has about 100 calories. Suppose you ate a dinner that was 1000 calories (which is a lot by the way).
1000 calories for dinner
+
200 calories (from 2 Right Size Smoothies)
= 1200 calories per day
That’s actually less calories than many people eat in a day.
So, are you losing weight because of anything special about Appemeine or are you losing weight because you are eating fewer calories?
Even the Right Size Smoothie website says it all boils down to calories in the end, so I think you have your answer.
We have heard this “replace one or two meals a day and eat a sensible dinner” statement before haven’t we? This is the same reasoning used by Slim-Fast for their diet! Remember the “Special K Diet” where you eat a bowl of Special K cereal at breakfast and lunch and a regular dinner? Special K doesn’t have many calories either (unless you eat the whole box at once!).
I not trying to drag Slim-Fast or Special K through the mud. Rather I want to point out that others have used the same logic in the past. Slim Fast, Special K, Right Size Smoothie and others all work on the same premise: they get you to eat less calories. The logic is sound and it will work. But what about after you go off the diet?
If by now you think I’m slamming Right Size Smoothies, technically I not. I just want to give you all the facts and arm you with more information than you would get if you simply listened to the commercials.
I think if people do what the company recommends than yes, I’m pretty sure Right Size Smoothies will promote weight loss. The same is also true for:
- Slim-Fast
- Special K
- The Atkins diet
- The Cookie Diet
- The Grapefruit Diet
- Eating 2 Subway sandwiches a day
- Or any other calorie restriction program
Also, once people stop reducing calories and go back to eating like before, than the weight will come back very fast. One of the reasons for this is because of an elevation in an enzyme called glycogen synthase. This enzyme helps you store glycogen – your storage form of carbohydrates.
When you reduce calories, your body starts to use its glycogen (carbohydrates) to maintain your energy levels. To compensate, your body raises the concentration of the glycogen synthase enzyme so that when you eat normally again, glycogen is made very fast.
Glycogen loss will also help explain any quick weight loss you see with Right Size Smoothies (or any other diet). As you deplete your glycogen levels, you free up a lot of water in your body. This is why you may have noticed frequent trips to the bathroom during the first several days of any diet.
How Much Does Right Size Smoothies Cost?
Currently, Right Size Smoothies cost just over $50 per container if you buy it from the product website. Each container has 30 servings. So, if you make two Right Size Smoothies per day, a container will last you about two and a half weeks. That means, you’ll pay about $100 a month. You may be able to get it cheaper as some supermarkets and chain drug stores now carry Right Size Smoothie.
Tip. Here is the smoothie recipe I make myself in my kitchen.
Other Right Size Products:
There are other products I see on the Right Size Smoothie website that you should be aware of.
1. Weight Loss Water. Generally speaking, water is water and has zero calories. The Weight Loss Water they are selling contains 50 mg of caffeine, 5 grams of fiber, some fish oil and other stuff reviewed above plus the mineral chromium picolinate which is useless for weight loss. 
Also this so- called “slimming water” contains 15 calories per serving. So it has more calories than tap water! How is that going to help? My advise: use tap or bottled water and save the money.
2. “Nutritional Supplements” At this time the Right Size Smoothie website lists several supplements that people can purchase. These currently include
a. A green tea supplement that contains Appemine
and
b. A multi-vitamin that contains Appemine.
Ok, here is the scoop on green tea. Drink the tea and forget the green tea supplements. I review green tea in my book, Nutritional Supplements: What Works and Why if you want to know more.
As for the multivitamin, has it been tested to see if it curbs appetite?As far as I can see, it has not.
They also sell sugar free syrups. Sugar free does not mean calorie free.
In my opinion, these supplements and other products are just added profit centers to help the company make more money.
I have nothing against capitalism and free enterprise. I hope everybody buys my books so I can keep helping people so I’m a capitalist too. My issue is when products are touted as being superior when there is no good proof to back it up. If you’re going to choose just one product to use, stick to Right Size Smoothie mix and forget the other products.
Does Right Size Smoothie Raise Cholesterol?
What you are reading on this site is an updated version of my original review of Right Size Smoothes I wrote in 2009. One of the comments made on that original review was from a person who said Right Size Smoothies raised her bad cholesterol (LDL) levels. I have seen comments like this elsewhere on the web (even on the Right Size Smoothies website too!). I’m not sure if Right Size Smoothie will do this or not but to be safe, get your cholesterol checked by your doctor when you use right size smoothie just in case. Here is my original Right Size Smoothies review with ALL of the comments
My Thoughts
Based on the evidence and rational thinking, I draw these conclusions about Right Size Smoothies:
1. Appemine is a made-up name. Appemine is not a drug or supplement. It is composed of several ingredients.
2. There is no peer-reviewed clinical evidence published on Appemine as an appetite suppressor in humans.
3. The evidence in support of most of Appemine’s ingredients is either lacking or very little. At this time, there does not seem to be any published peer-reviewed evidence that the combination of ingredients in Appemine promotes weight loss in humans.
4. There appears to be no published peer-reviewed evidence in humans or animals that compares Right Size Smoothies to any other weight loss product or drug proving that it is equal or superior at promoting weight loss.
5. Cutting calories by using of Right Size Smoothies – or any other low calorie meal replacement product – will likely promote weight loss.
6. Cheaper meal replacement products exist that will probably do the same thing.
7. The weight that is lost through Right Size Smoothies (or any other low calorie eating plan) is likely to return once the diet has stopped.
8. Consumers can probably due without using the added supplements marketed on the website.
Overall, I don’t think Right Size Smoothies are bad. In comparison to most of the other weight loss products I see advertised, the claims made for the product are tame and, as I said previously, I like how the makers of the product take the high road and discuss calories as the key to weight loss. I just don’t see any good proof that the ingredients in Right Size Smoothies are superior to anything else-including my personal smoothie recipe . Considering the price of the product, I want to see published peer-reviewed proof that Right Size Smoothies do what it’s supposed to do. Testimonials are not enough for me. Demanding published, peer reviewed proof (even if it’s conducted by the maker of the product) is the only way we will know whether a nutritional supplement really works.
{ 94 comments… read them below or add one }
Sounds like something I would like to try.
Gino that’s fine give it a try and then let me know what you think.
I hope it works. I tried a lot of weight loss pills only to be disappointed.
Gino I’m not guaranteeing that it will. Remember that Right Size Smoothie is just a vehicle to help people reduce calorie intake. Its ingredients dont appear to me to have any special weight loss effects. Drinking the shake but eating the same way as before wont give the results people seek.
Tasty product but not effective as an appetite suppressant; unpleasant side effects for me; misleading adverts and hidden costs in the “free trial”, and horrid customer service all leave me personally feeling like this is not a product I want to use again. It’s frightfully expensive, and not nearly as effective as other shakes I’ve tried. Love your websites and your common sense, science-driven analysis.
Thanks Liz for your comments about Right Size Smoothie and my websites
Beware of the cost factor. I ordered off TV where you pay only shipping for one can and receive a second can that you can buy or send back. I was told the cost for the second can would be $56 if I decided to keep it. But the contract that comes in the box states that if you keep the second can, you will be charged $110, so you are actually paying full price for each can! When I called to get an authorization number to send the can back, I complained about this deception and they offered to let me keep the other can for $56. When I said no thanks, the customer service rep became very nasty and said “well, I thought you wanted to lose that weight and get healthy, but I guess I was wrong”, etc. In short, I’m done with Right Size Smoothies!
Wow! Donna thanks for letting everybody know about what happened to you. I didn’t know customer service would take offense to you trying to send right size smoothies back. Very interesting…
I just got my right size smoothies through a drugstore and it was a lower price than $50. I do not want to go broke. I just want to lose weight. It was tastes pretty good. Will have to wait until after the holidays before trying it as an appetite suppressant.
It’s not just the food it’s your behavior that factors in as well. As a health coach I help people learn to make better choices, something like weight watchers, just with personal attention, shopping and cooking advice customized for you. You won’t go broke if you invest your money wisely in something that works or with someone that cares. I’ve lost over 200 lbs and I will give you all the resources I have to help you.
As averse as I normally am to these weight-loss products advertised on TV and radio, I finally was like “What the heck,” and just gave in.
I have to say that my experience actually wasn’t that bad. You’re absolutely right when you say that weight loss comes down to calories, and after checking out what I could find out about the smoothies, I didn’t think their claims were too outrageous, so I trusted it more.
I’m not disciplined enough (and don’t eat at home often enough) to actually do the replacement like I was supposed to, so I didn’t lose any weight. BUT the smoothies were tasty, and I was pleasantly surprised when I called to cancel my subscription.
Of course they tried to get me to buy like 6 million other products (they tried that when I called to order as well), and I waited about 20 minutes to speak to someone, but when I actually did speak to them, they were fairly pleasant. Yes, I got suckered in to paying another $56 to keep the second can (so about $80 spent overall), but I wasn’t angry about it, since I liked the smoothies and felt they had potential.
What I would recommend over the smoothies, however, is their Appemine “metabolism boosting” blend. Again, it seems to just be a tablet form of their “key ingredients” but I find that the caffeine helps me stay awake in the mornings, and I actually *am* less hungry during the day. Plus, it’s cheaper.
Anyways, those are my thoughts and my experiences. Thanks for giving a fair (and thorough) review!
Hey Bea thanks for telling me your thoughts about Right Size Smoothies and I’m glad it was easy for you cancel. Thanks also for letting me know about their metabolism boosting appemine supplement. I’ll have to take a look at that
BTW, I like your website
I’ve been using Right Size Smoothies for about a week now along with my normal exercise routine. I haven’t lost any weight yet but I’ve definitely lost inches, I assume I’ve made the weight up in muscle. The smoothies taste great and seem to keep me full but like you mentioned, eating 3 sensible meals would have the same effect. I’ve put on 30 pounds over the past few years and am using the smoothies to help shred the weight and will return to my normal ~1200 calorie diet once I’m through.
Brian, sounds like you are using Right Size Smoothies the right way. Glad you are enjoying the taste and have had no problems ordering the product.
I have been using Right Size Smoothies for a couple of weeks now and I love it. They taste good and I like the pills a lot they keep from not craving foods like I usually do and the multi-vitamin put the vitamins back what I’m missing. I have lost 5 pounds already but I haven’t measured how many inches lost. But with the right exercise plan and good healthy meal in the evening really works. Not over night but eventually you will see results. Compare to most meal replacements I like Right Size Smoothies and I would recommended this to anyone who is trying to lower their calorie intake for a healthier lifestyle. It’s all about the will power and you can’t give up. It will work!!
Alexandra, I am glad you are enjoying right size smoothies and are losing weight. I’m also glad you are using it along with exercising and eating healthier. Depending on your budget, I still feel you can save your money on the right size smoothie vitamins. Regardless, as long as you are doing what you need to do, that is what is important
I recently tried Rightsize smoothie, I believe I had a allergic reaction. I took three sips of it and i broke out in a cold sweat and a big red spot appeared on my neck.
Terri, I think you are the first person to have had an allergic reaction to right size smoothies. I wonder if it was the Cayenne pepper fruit? I’m not sure in any event. Hopefully you returned it and will not take it again. Make your own smoothies, they are pretty easy to make.
What other meal replacement do you recommend?
Hi Veronica. Most health food stores have protein shakes that are about 200 calories. I like ABB protein shakes myself. You can make a very good one yourself if you have a blender. Try this recipe (it takes under 5 min to make)
1 orange (pealed of course)
2 frozen strawberries
1/2 cup of frozen blue berries (just toss some in no need to measure too precisely)
1 scoop of oatmeal
1 scoop of chocolate protein powder
blend and drink. The oat meal thickens it up and it tastes good
As for protein powder. If you like chocolate, try Dymatize Elite or Protein Plus. Both are pretty good and do not have many calories.
Hope that helps Veronica
Great review ! Thanks !
I was gonna order the product, but when a lot of people complained about customer service,no results,..etc. I felt fortunate to not have wasted my time and money.
Fey, Thanks for writing. Very glad my reviews on Right Size Smoothies helped you.
Thank you so much for your review. I thought I was picking up a habit of not sleeping and could not understand why my eyes were opened at 2 am. I now know why I would freeze some Right Size and have it for a snack at night instead of jello or something light. Plus you saved me from purchasing more. I believe its a mind thing pump up with caffeine. I am going to try the ABB. Thanks Joe
Glad I was able to help you! Yes Right Size Smoothie will definitely keep you awake at night. Try freezing the ABB and see how that works. I never thought of doing that
Just wanted to thank you for all of your hard work. Your info. is extremely informative and I now know where to go before I spend my money. Great job and thanks, again.
Colleen, thanks for the feedback, I’m happy that I was able to help you
Thank you so much for this great review! Your review, as well as everyone’s comments about the poor customer service at Right Size Smoothie, helped me decide to avoid ordering this product from the Right Size folks. I see that CVS has it on their website so I think I’ll try it from them. I’ve lost 80 pounds over the last 6 years just eating sensibly and exercising…but I’ve put about 15 back on since Christmas and now that I’m 30 it doesn’t seem to be coming off as easy as it used to. Just thought I’d give this product a try to help get me back on track. Thanks again!
Sarah, my pleasure and congratulations on your accomplishment!
I am trying to lose about 20lbs without breaking the bank. I saw the Right Size Smoothie commercial with the free trial this morning and it looked promising but after I read some of the comments about how they switch the price on you I changed my mind. What would you recommend for me?
Thanks Joe – great review and I am going to try your recipe for the protein shake.
Very helpful information Joe. Thank you for all the work you did…and your insight into this product. You saved me some money and lots of frustration. I will be returning my product today.
Joyce, glad to help. Thanks for letting me know. Again, its not that I think there is anything bad about Right Size Smoothie; I just don’t think its anything you can’t do for yourself, cheaper.
Hi, loved your info, even if I did find it after the fact. I came online to see where I could purchase more Right Size Smoothie and found your website. I am diabetic, with no ins. and no meds available to me. My friend gave Right Size to me to try, and it has been GREAT! I’ve been on this for 6 weeks and I’ve monitored my sugar levels VERY carefully while I have been on this…no spikes and staying level.
I don’t feel hungry all the time, or tired like I used to. When I calculate how much meals cost that are within my sugar/carb “budget” this is actually less. And the gradual weight loss (13lbs so far) is definitely a good thing, because with me not having the meds I need I had been gaining weight fast. The info you provided confirmed what I had looked up, so thank you very much!
Brandi, I’m glad I can help you. Remember that your type II diabetes can be cured. Not many people with type II diabetes know this.
This is especially important since you said you are not taking meds because if your diabetes is not gotten under control it will get worse.
Right Size Smoothie can help you -and it sounds like it is – because it helps you cut down on the calories you eat. this will help you lose weight. Losing weight and exercise are the 2 keys to curing type II diabetes.
On my personal website I’ve written a few blogs about type II diabetes. Please read through them. Here is one of them http://www.joe-cannon.com/can-type-ii-diabetes-be-cured/
I am glad right size smoothie is helping you and I wish you much continued success! I believe in you!
If you want to be treated like a piece of trash, order a Rightsize smoothie from their company.
I made a call in after hearing a radio ad, and they assured that it would be shipped within a certain amount of days. After a month and a half, I never received it and wondered why. I called them and told them that I never received the product, and I want my money back.
They claimed that UPS made several attempts to deliver. I told them that an attempt means nothing to me as a consumer if that attempt failed, and the end result is me paying $18.88 for something I never received. Oh…and by the way…the $18.88 is the shipping & handling charge, I was signing up for what they called a free trial…yeah, a free trial that cost me 18 dollars and 88 cents.
I don’t know if my credit card agrees with the “free” statement but whatever…after a brief argument of my side and their side, I realized these people are not going to give me my money back. The lady then offered to have it re-shipped.
I told her, why would I want to deal with a company that essentially treats their customers like this. I am not longer interested, and it’s true…there’s millions of products like this, Rightsize is NOT unique at all nor special enough to treat a customer like a piece of trash, dispose of me, and cheat me out of $18.88.
So, in conclusion, I have been robbed once this summer. I paid for something that I never received…and UPS along with Rightsize smoothie have $18.88 of my money, and I have nothing. Congrats Rightsize smoothie, winning over one customer at a time huh ? :/
Samson WOW! I cant believe Right Size Smoothie did that to you! I’m surprised given how often Right Size is advertised on TV and radio. I’m really glad that you shared this with me. Can I suggest you also file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau.
Sorry you lost your money but I’m happy you shared your story to help others.
I ordered these from the CVS website because they were cheaper than on the Right Size website. It was free shipping and came in 2 days– drama free!
I tried using 1/2 scoop of the vanilla and 1/2 scoop of the chocolate with skim milk and ice and a 1/2 teaspoon of peanut butter and it is excellent.
It does not have that weird chalky taste that so many powdered smoothies have.
I would recommend this product.
Rachael, Thanks for the heads up. I have seen Right Size Smoothies at CVS but never thought to look on the CVS website. Thanks for letting me know this!
Thanks for the heads-up on Right Size. There was a woman in my town that advertised selling them I left several messages but no returning call, now I am glad she didn’t.
I tried your shake recipe with the orange but added 4 frozen cherries, and blackberries instead of blueberries with the oatmeal and chocolate protein, had to add some water because it was too thick but it was wonderful and I feel so full I could just pop… any other recipes for me to try?
I just found your website by accident while looking at Right Size ads.. So glad I did. I am looking to lose 125 pounds and think keeping on your site might just help.. Thanks
Hi Renee,
I did not know that right size smoothies were also sold through distributors. That’s really interesting. I will keep my eyes peeled to see if the same thing is going around here.
I’m glad you found me and happy you like my shake recipe. Ive never tried cherries -I’ll have to do that.
Ill do some digging and see if I can come up wight some other recipes for you to try. What protein powder did you use for your shake?
are you doing any type of exercise currently to help your weight loss?
I have tried many diets before like this and they pretty much all work, and give you energy to exercise. I am prone to depression and lethargy and I think it has a lot to do with the way I eat. When left to my own devices I eat horribly, so I try to stay on a diet. When I stick to it my appetite goes down because all the sugar and everything makes me hungrier. I am a recovering drug addict, and believe that I am a food addict as well.
I saw your comments that when doing a low calorie diet the weight will come right back after you go off the diet, so my question is what else do recommend for loosing weight. If I’m not on some sort of diet I feel lazy and don’t want to exercise at all.
Thank you for your review and your info is very helpful.
Bridgett, have you ever thought about weight watchers? What I like about it is the social part. There is education too. I do want you to exercise too
Called within the 30 day period to get a return authorization. Customer service rep would not give me a return authorization number, instead encouraged me to wait until Sept 23rd to call so I could have the “full 30 days.”
Called on September the 22nd to get authorization and was told my 30 day trial period ended on the 21st and I would now be charged the full price ($119). On top of this, right size smoothie “signed me up” for two services which bill you $24.95 a month after your free trial period of 30 days – problem is, the letters for these “services” don’t arrive within the 30 days, so there is no way to cancel them.
“Free trial” companies make their money betting people aren’t vigilant. Don’t do business with a company that won’t accept returns – they will rip you off every single time. Wish I would have listened to the voice in my head telling me not to call for this “free trial.” Learn from my mistake – get your smoothie mix at the gym or grocery store and avoid my headache.
Jan, so sorry Right Size Smoothies did that to you. I would argue this with your credit card company. I’d also file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau.
Hi Joe. I found your site by accident while investigating the Right-Size Smoothie. Thank God for you and your knowledge and most of all for sharing it with us! I will try your recipe with the orange and other fruits. I have difficulty eating breakfast, and it sounds like it would be just the thing to get me started in the am.
Thanks again for your expertise and suggestions. Keep up the awesome work. Best Wishes from sunny California.
Jean thanks very much for taking the time to write and I hope you enjoy my recipe! Sunny California sounds good – its raining here in not so sunny Philly right now
I ordered mine online from CVS and got it for about $20 for the container *25% off online and free shipping* I just received it today so i haven’t tried it but i will definitely update, i think most of the problem sounds like the company not the product also, when figuring out how many calories it is for the shake it is 100 calories just for the powder .. you have to remember to include the calories for the milk *80-150/8oz depending on type* so a shake is basically 180 calories if you use skim milk per serving
Tamara thats a good point about factoring in the milk calories ! Yes do keep us posted on what happens
I have tried the right size smoothy and love it I agree with your reporting and I like the fact that they understand the key is calorie and hunger if you can lower the calorie intake while controlling the hunger you win I did an am loss wait very quickly….
Maybe it was the smoothy Idea and not right size smoothy but I have tried other diet drink… but this is the first over the counter that really control my hunger with so few calories…. The truth is it working for me… I added a good one a day vitamin to my day and I drunk half a scoop every3 hour or 4 times instead of 2 meal replacement. I stretched the 2 serving out into 4 with 4 glasses of water behind this is on the idea of eating 6 small meals a day same amount just spread out different….
My other to meal are small well balances loss calorie meals. It will help keep your metabolism on track and you feel less hungry between meals this way I am lose at lease 10 pounds a week and got energy and not hungry
One more thing I just used water to mix it tasted great without that chalky taste
Charles thats great Im glad that Right Size is working for you!
Joe..yes I am doing Zumba and a body shaping class that is kicking my butt a little but is fun. The protein powder I am using is MRM all natural egg white protein, 100 calories per scoop and 23grams of protein..
Renee thanks for sharing and glad its all workout out well for you
I started tuesday on the right size smoothies, so i have basically finished 3 days on the diet. To date i’ve lost 4lbs in 3 days, not too shabby. I can say it helps with hunger but doesn’t eliminate it for me. I have been drinking a shake for breakfast, an egg for lunch, a shake at 3pm and a sensible supper and started riding the bike about 45min a day, so i probably would lose the same just watching calories, but if you don’t have the time or effort to do that, then this is an easy way to lower calories, curb appetite and lose weight. *oh and taste, I actually like the chalky taste lol, i tried it with water to cut back calories and didn’t care for it*
Tamara, glad you found something that is working for you!!
Hi, i started the rightsize Drink mix on today. the thing is is that i don’t have no idea what to eat during snacks and even supper time. please help me i weigh 180lbs or give me another suggestion on how to get this weight off diabetes and high blood pressure runs in my family. please help! thanks and be blessed.
Hi Rhonda, let me try to offer you some ideas that might help your weight loss. When you eat a mean, add some low fat protein (turkey tuna, chicken) and some fruits and vegetables. The protein slows digestion and so too do the fruits and vegetables. Try to eat about 2000 calories per day. This is probalby less than what you are eating now and so when you cut back this will help your weight loss
Try to eat 5 small meals a day – right size can be one or 2 of those meals. Eating more frequently will help you from being starving and over eating.
when you read a food label, notice all those percentages on the right side – they are called the Daily Values. As a rule when you see 20% or more next to a nutrient, its considered “high” and when you see 5% or less, the food is “low” in the nutrient. So you dont want to see 20% (or close to it) next to fat, saturated fat, sodium.
As a rule try to limit foods that come in a box, package or can. These tend to be higher in calories and fat. Also try to limit lunch mean since it tends to be high in salt
Try to reduce soda that has high fructose corn syrup. This stuff seems to make us store fat in our belly.
I dont know anything about your current health or fitness but if you can walk for 30 minutes each day that will help you lose weight AND help reduce your risk for diabetes and high blood pressure.
on my personal website I have listed other things that might also help you lose weight. Here is the link http://www.joe-cannon.com/what-weight-loss-supplements-work/
Rhonda, there are also some very good books and websites about nutrition. I like the websites of Today’s Dietitian magazine and Nutrition Action Newsletter (google them. Their websites give a lot of info away for free on nutrition)
I hope some of this helps Rhonda
Doesn’t taste good. They told me I could add all sorts of other things to it to make it better.
When they sign you up, they try to up-sell you all sorts of other things. It is obvious that the employees in the call center are rewarded by how many extra things they can convince you to do, including things that have nothing to with health. Discount programs galore, all “free trials” that will start charging you later in addition to other charges they will not tell you about.
The “Free Shipping” is bogus. You have to join freeshipping.com which gives you an initial rebate of $20 that covers the shipping out. You’ll have to cancel that membership if you don’t want to pay the $12.97 per month. If you don’t like it, you have to pay to return it. Get your packing instructions right, or they’ll charge you the $120 for what they sent you.
They signed me up for a rebate club that was supposed to have a free trial, but that company tried, unsuccessfully, to charge my credit card.
When I called back to cancel, I was on hold for 8 minutes. In a professional and calm manner, I told the person my frustrations. He continually talked over me, told me I was talking over him, and made no apologies aside from the taste. He did tell me, in a condescending way, they it really wasn’t that hard to add extra things to the smoothie.
That’s what I get for listening to radio ads. Time to get myself to the gym and suck it up.
Joe thanks for the review. Very informative and helpful.
I had ordered Rightsize Smoothie before I did my research(duh!) I was worried after reading so many negative reviews on their customer service. But I was able to cancel the next day.
I will try Rightsize anyway. I will try it from CVS where it is cheaper. But I want to try like you suggest and make my own. I’m 53 and never weighted this much in my life. When I was younger I did work out and ate right so I just need to do it.
Again thanks for the honest review. There was so much BS out the on the web about Rightsize. It was great to see an open review. Good work.
Thanks Michael, keep me in the loop on how the homemade smoothies work out for you.
Has anyone tried having one of the smoothies for dinner? I normally eat two eggs for breakfast and having protein in the morning keeps me full longer. I’d hate to lose that by replacing my eggs with a smoothie. I was thinking eggs for breakfast, smoothie for lunch, smoothie for dinner, or would that be too drastic of a calorie cut?
Christina, depending on how many eggs you had it could be. Why dont you try the eggs for breakfast, smoothie at lunch and then eat a normal dinner that has protein and also veggies and fruit. I’d think that’s a more sensible way to do it. give it a try and see how you feel
I would suggest Christina that you try just the smoothie during the day. I tried RightSize today for the first time and it gave me a boost of energy. Enough to where I said to myself I don’t want to take this for supper!! Try it during the day first to see how it affects you.
@Joe, when I learn how to make my own smoothies (and I will!) I’ll let you know how it works out for sure.
I will never use this product. They overdraft my account. The customer service reps were extremely rude!!! Can you say customer service. Right size smoothies will never get my money or my friends or associates money!!!
never again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Strong Review Joe..
Lot’s of helpful information… and/but…
Yes, the and buts. Well, I have a few things I’d like to point out and given I can’t keep track of all of them, I’ll work backwards.
First, (as in last) I think you missed the opportunity to come away with a clear, strong, statement about this product. Is it good? Should people buy it?
You can, and should have balance in the full write up, but the reality is that you seem to put enough info in here to say, “no!” It’s not, “well maybe it’ll work for you.”
That’s just feeding into the same crap. Helping people justify the same lie their trying to get someone to help them believe.
It’s not “all bad…” Really? From a guy who knows what a real nutrition shake (aka Meal replacement) is and has spent 20 years leading the way in science based nutrition, I can look at this label and see it’s a cheap pile of nutritional “parts”… so of the nutrient equivalent of the Chicken McNugget.
Why, as I read some of the comments above, why can’t people just run a real business with a great product and service? What’s wrong with doing the right thing?
I know it costs more… a lot more. But it’s almost like people get off on ripping others off. Makes me sick.
The MEAL REPLACEMENT element
You mention that they say this is NOT a meal-replacement but then you refer to as such throughout. I get that they, likely at great risk when the FTC sees it, say to replace meals with this.
When you speak of it “may work” based on lower calories, you’re missing the fact that starving, intentionally under feeding yourself is a destructive and very temporary strategy.
Few people can actually drop to 100 cals a meal and roll along life well and good. It doesn’t happen. We do nuts… we’re starving. I get the feeling that you got so wrapped in the fact that it’s almost like life became a math problem.
This isn’t math… and you, most, can’t cut calories like this and get away with it. And when you do, if you do, the loss of lean muscle and vitality is adding to the devastation.
Lack of SCIENCE
The complete lack of science is inexcusable and contrary to what they say… it’s not “well, I can’t find it.” Come on. You’re smart… it’s NOT there.
Appemine is a joke. What a joke… the caffeine which is in the gaurana is the source of the caffeine (and I hope it the 50 mg) is the most and likely only effect supplement in there. It works less through a metabolic kick than through a mental one… changes the focus of your action and desires about eating.
White Willow, as you point out, can be dangerous. No need.
And the rest of that appemine is just label filler, fluff. Yes, you are right to point out that there’s not enough “chili pepper” to be of any use, if there is any impact any way.
The protein is too low, and it sucks. Really, the ingredients on this are, 89%, in this order…
- Soy Protein Isolate
- Fructose
- Safflower oil
I mean, not only is that cheap, but it’s total fluff. We know that proteins can help increase satiety, and many other benefits but largely this is reserved to whey proteins, higher grade better…
And real proteins have other positive impact on the body and mind.
This crap doesn’t rank on the scale of stuff you’d want to give to an enemy.. and it’s sad that the public can’t know. Sure, people have a right to run a business but I’m sad they don’t also have a moral obligation to play it up and up…
I could go on and on… I won’t. Thanks for sharing.
Been wanting to take this crap apart for a long time. And I could run for 10 pages.
It’s a bad-idea. There’s much, much better, more wholesome things you can do.
Thanks again Joe!
To Your Full Strength,
Shawn Phillips
author Strength for LIFE, ABSolution
Co-Founder EAS
Creator Full Strength Nutrition
Shawn, I appreciate your well thought out words and I feel your frustration and your passion for the truth. I share them. When I wrote my Right Size Smoothies review I tried to take myself out of the equation and focus on the facts as much as I could. I tried to be like “Dragnet” and just provide “the facts” letting people make their own choice.
Technically Right Size Smoothies is tame next to some of the other weigh loss supplements I’ve reviewed – such as those that secretly contain weight loss drugs – but I thought I pointed out ‘the truth” behind Right Size Smoothie when I compared it to slim fast and and other “use 2 of these and eat a sensible meal” diets. I thought that logic might be enough to help people to understand the real facts behind how Right Size might work. If I was wrong or too tame, then I’m sure your words reinforced my review and for that I’m grateful. Thanks for writing and have a great Thanksgiving Shawn!
thank you for the informative review!!
Thanks Jenn, glad to help
Well Shawn I though Joe’s review was on the up and up. I am not into training and stuff. I live in Louisiana and you know what we eat here!! I was looking for something to help me get control o my appetite. I had quit smoking two years ago and put on more than 30 lbs!
So looking through the web for info on Right Size (see my previous post) and I found Joe’s review. And his review did exactly what he intended it to do. Informed me and help me make my own decision.
Thanks again Joe. I have tried Right Size. It has help to loose 20lbs to date.
Thanks Michael, I am really glad I was able to help you and congrats on your weight loss!!!
hello,
I received right size smoothies from a family member who called it to get it free. They charged her for a year supply, they had horrible customer service and refused to refund the money. Instead they kept the money and sent her a whole year supply of the smoothies.
My family member has been using them for a few weeks with intense calorie counting and has lost a good amount of weight. She stresses the point of watching what you eat first and simply just using it for a meal replacement.
I drank a smoothie for dinner and it DID NOT agree with me. at all!!! I got too much energy and started to sweat with a light headache. I even had terrible hunger pains. I don’t know if it was because I had a smoothie for dinner. I am going to try it for breakfast before my workout and see if there is a difference.
I have tried other dieting such as mega tea and alli. I get the same effects and cant pinpoint why I have those issues. Its something that they are putting in these products that make me react. So I would say exercise and calorie counting is the best method..
Devon, Its shocking that the Right Size Smoothie company would charge your family member for a YEAR SUPPLY when they only called for a free sample!!! Your family member must have given them a credit card when she called. I dont know if your family member did this but I would contact that credit card customer service and dispute that charge. How much did they charge them for a year supply of Right Size Smoothie?
Just to be safe, make sure the credit card company blocks all future charges from Right Size Smoothie because its possible that in a year they might be charged AGAIN for ANOTHER YEAR SUPPLY.
Yeah I have also been duped by the Right Size Rip off. The FREE product eventually cost you 79.00. IF YOU READ THIS AND STILL GIVE THEM YOUR CREDIT INFO, I would like to sale you the Pacific ocean “cheap”.
Right size rip-off. Big time headache. Their persistence turns to insistence then to out right rude and extremely aggressive. Not to mention it does not work.
Avoid this company. They sent me a box of this stuff I didn’t order and dinged my credit card for $103. when i complained they told me to send it back (on my dime) and they would refund me $89! Are you kidding? I want all my money back ($103)! i never ordered this stuff. See you in court…
Edward, how did they get your credit card #? If they charged you and you did not order it, complain to your credit card company. Hopefully they will take your side as you try to get your money back from Right Size Smoothie.
I’ve been on rightsize smoothie for 2 weeks and have lost 10 lbs, and it does make me feel fuller. I also included exercise everyday. I found comcast cable has on-demand fitness workouts (just 10-15 minutes will work), try that along with a rightsize smoothie in the AM and a rightsize smoothie in the PM, a sensible lunch (regular food) and you will see the weight come off! Good Luck, and yes most CVS pharmacies carry rightsize smoothies.
tdtventures, great I’m glad you have found something that works for you and I am also glad you discovered those exercise shows on comcast! I just got Tivo through my cable company (I don’t have comcast) and discovered that Tivo lets me download video exercise podcasts that I can watch on my TV. I’m sure these are pretty similar -if not the same – as what you are seeing. Just thought id mention that in case there are other people out there who have Tivo and didn’t know about this.
What a rip off, that is the last time I buy anything from a radio ad. They should be taken off the air, there is nothing free in this life. I tried it, did not like it, called them, got a return authorization and was charged $119.80 on my credit card immediately after getting the authorization to return it.
I was charged for shipping $14.60 and returned shipping $12.60 plus returned receipt when they receive package. I am now waiting for my returned receipt, so I can dispute the charge. What a big hassle!! It is a shame that companies like this hurt other legitimate businesses out there. I am going to spread the warning to all about this product. I will also talk to my son the lawyer about legal action.
I unfortunately did not investigate this product very well before I received it last week. (3/8/2012) I began using the product once a day (for breakfast) on Friday morning. Beginning Saturday afternoon, I was suddenly struck by a massive headache. I actually went to bed by 4 pm, and stayed. Along with the headache, I had severe stomach pain and cramps. I continued using the Smoothie through Monday, and the headache and stomach aches continued. It is Wednesday am now…..I did not use the product yesterday, nor today and am virtually symptom free.
My “free” sample will be returned today. Thanks for the info that you’ve posted on this subject. I do believe another smoothie recipe is planned from this day forward. Thanks again!!
Cindy, thanks for writing and sorry to hear about your headache and stomach aches. I do hope you feel better soon.
Thanks for the low down on right size. I was very close to jumping in but I’m glad I decided to research. Basically what you are saying is, if I cut my calories, add protein and fiber I am going to lose weight. No need to spend much money to do so, I can do this by adding. I have a along way to go but that is what I will do.
Thanks! Nico
Hi Nico, yes basically that’s it. I saw nothing special in right size smoothies that made me think it was superior to just reducing the amount of calories you eat. Calories are what is most important. I would not cut too back on protein however. The protein will help reduce any muscle loss that might happen when you go on a weight loss program. this is why most weight loss programs include protein. As a rule, try to eat a little protein with each meal. if you are like me and want a number to aim for in terms of how many grams to eat, the simple way is to take 1/2 your body weight. So if you are 180 pounds, 50% of this equals 90 grams of protein per day.
Here is a link to something I wrote on weight loss supplements that also has several other tips that might help you http://www.joe-cannon.com/what-weight-loss-supplements-work/
Don’t try to do everything in one day Nico. slow and steady wins the race. I suggest you focus on being healthy and not so much weight loss. If you do that, things might be easier.
Keep me posted or let me know if you have any other questions Nico!
Don’t order this product. It is in my opinion a scam. There is nothing “free” about the free-trial. They try to sucker you into buying at least 20 other items while you are on the phone and the staff won’t take no for an answer. I fell into the trap and found it near next to impossible to return the product. I lost money and no weight using it. The call center staff is the rudest that I have ever encountered.
I didn’t order through the free trial. I ordered the product direct. I don’t drink it anymore cuz I get a allergic reaction when I do. I start itching and have to keep scratching.
It’s all about calories! Right Size works for me. The cocoa flavor makes it easy to use. The other flavors just don’t cut it. I’ve lost 34 lbs. in four weeks and haven’t even began to exercise. I can’t handle too much caffeine, so I do still get hungry.
But I eat a zero calorie Kosher Dill pickle between meals. Sounds nutzy, but my weight problem has always been located between my ear lobes. Right Size is helping me rethink the whole food thing. When I reach my target weight I’ll have to wean myself off of the placebo and eat smart without it. It’s all about calories! Always has been, always will be.
Joe, thank you for your information. I was referred by a colleague at work to try right size smoothies with the free trial. I have tried for about 2 weeks now, I have lost 10 pounds. It’s not just the smoothies that did the magic weight loss, it’s also the exercise that I do twice a day everyday, during my lunch hour, and after work.
Reasons I can do the exercise twice a day are because I want to meet my goal to lose about 60 pounds back to my normal weight (110 lbs, which my height is 5’2″) and also the smoothies keep me from getting hungry all the time and keep me from thinking about snacking as well. I lost my appetite and don’t feel hungry at all at noon, but I have to make myself eating at the proper time with smaller portion and so I can spend my lunch time to do my exercise as well.
One thing that I really want to know is, to ensure that the right size smoothies do not have any type of illegal drugs in its ingredients because I do not want to lose weight and lose my job as well when failure for a drug test.
So far, I only open one can with the Leano Cappuccino flavor and normally I don’t like milk and so I gave it a try to mix it with skim milk, and I have no problem with the taste even though it will not taste as good as starbucks cappuccino haha… but if the goal is to lose weight, you gotta sacrifice and do your part as well which the key is “do your daily workout and manage the meal portion”.
Hi Lee, congrats on your progress and your dedication to exercise! I have not heard anything regarding right size smoothies having any illegal or undisclosed weight loss drugs. I dont think it does. I think its just what they say it is – a low calorie shake. I keep up with FDA alerts on supplements and if I ever see anything on this, I will let you know. If you ever do fail a drug test while taking right size smoothies, please let me know. For now, I would not worry about it. Since its working for you, just keep doing what you are doing
I just ordered the product today and wish I had found this website before I ordered!
I did not accept the other others, including $40 WalMart cards and extra cans, nor did I sign up for the can a month offer.
I had NO idea it was a smoothie that had caffeine in it. I believe that should be disclosed up front. I am glad to know that it is available at CVS and will probably use the CVS store for reorder if I do try it and like it.
I usually check the internet for this kind of article before my purchases. I didn’t today, and look, I’m regretting my impulsivity. Marketing works.
guys!!!! when buying something that calls for pay shipping only for free trial” use a prepaid credit card…then they cant con you into buying more..unles you actually like the product… ive done this in the past.
My dad had tried the Atkins diet program about a year and a half ago and, for a while, it really worked for him. I couldn’t believe it, because the diet allowed him to eat as much steak (along with some other meaty foods, i.e; bacon, etc.) as he pleased! And, after about 3-4 months, you could actually see the body fat just melt right off!
Although, I believe it was because my mother would continually buy all the shakes and the snack bars and he would follow through, religiously. But, then, for reasons unknown, he quit the program and, almost as quickly, he gained all the weight back. So, I suppose it only works if you really commit to it, which makes sense. Hope you all find this useful! =)
Mel, I think one thing that may have happened is that when we go on a low carb diet we increase an enzyme that helps us store carbs. its called glycogen synthase. when we start to eat carbs again, the enzyme stores those carbs and probably does so at a faster rate. this may account for the fast weight loss you saw in your dad. Here is something I wrote on low carb diets that may help. http://www.joe-cannon.com/low-carb-diets-how-they-work/