Are Arbonne products safe? In this Arbonne review, you’ll learn about the ingredients used in their shakes and powders and you will find out whether the products are really worth it!
Before it’s asked, this is the protein I use and recommend. I couldn’t find one good enough on the market, so I made my own. Grass-fed collagen with six organic superfoods: kale, spirulina, wheatgrass, broccoli, spinach and turmeric. I drink it in my daily smoothies and it gives me LIFE. Aka a healthy gut, glowing skin, strong digestion and energy for DAYS.
Arbonne Review: Are Arbonne products safe?
After lots of requests for a Arbonne Nutrition review, I’ve finally done it. I wanted to like Arbonne. That’s why I think it took me so long to look at the products. I took a close look at their protein shakes and nutrition bars and listed some of the ingredients that are not safe!
Claims Arbonne makes about their products:
Their branding suggests that they truly are “all natural” – a term that has all but lost its meaning. And it’s just that – branding. Not reality. It isn’t the truth.
I want people who are using or selling these products to truly know what’s in them. Most people just aren’t aware.
I do these reviews because I want to educate people on what they’re putting into their bodies.
Arbonne shakes, bars etc. may be marketed as healthy. But let’s take a look at what’s inside so you can actually get an unbiased review of Arbonne.
Review of Arbonne Protein Shake / Bars Ingredients:
Vanilla Protein Shake Ingredients:
Arbonne Protein Matrix Blend (pea protein isolate, cranberry protein, rice protein), sugar cane, sunflower oil, natural vanilla flavor, corn starch, inulin, xanthan gum, flax seed, stevia leaf extract, gum acacia, guar gum.
Chocolate Protein Shake Ingredients:
Arbonne Protein Matrix Blend (pea protein isolate, cranberry protein, rice protein), sugarcane, cocoa powder, natural chocolate flavor, sunflower oil, corn starch, inulin, xanthan gum, stevia leaf extract, flax seed, gum acacia, guar gum.
Chocolate Nutrition Bar Ingredients:
brown rice syrup, brown rice protein, pumpkin seeds, water, crisp rice (rice flour, sugar, salt, calcium carbonate), pea protein isolate, alkalized cocoa, chicory fiber, oats, dates, cocoa butter, glycerin, natural flavors, quinoa, sunflower lecithin, sea salt.
Chocolate Protein Ready To Drink Shake:
water, Arbonne Protein Matrix (pea protein isolate, cranberry protein, rice protein), sugar cane, natural chocolate avor, sunflower oil, cocoa powder, corn starch, inulin, cellulose gum and gel, locust bean gum, calcium carbonate, sodium chloride, potassium citrate, sodium citrate, magnesium oxide, ax seed, stevia extract, ascorbic acid, coenzyme Q10, alfalfa, kelp, ginseng, d-alpha tocopherol acetate, sodium selenate, biotin, niacinamide, retinyl palmitate, d-calcium pantothenate, potassium iodide, zinc oxide, copper gluconate, manganese sulfate, folic acid, ergocalciferol, pyridoxine hydrochloride, ribo avin, thiamine hydrochloride, sodium molybdate, cyanocobalamin (vitamin B12), chromium chloride.
Are Arbonne Products GMO free?
I just got off the phone with Arbonne customer service. It took quite a while to get a human on the phone.
“Hi! Are Arbonne products certified GMO free?”
The woman, who was very nice, clearly had no idea what I was talking about. She asked which products I was looking at. I told her I was wondering if all of them were GMO-free.
“Are you looking [at] the 30 day supply?”
“No, I just want to know if all of the products are certified GMO free. Like the ready-to-drink Chocolate Shake. It has corn in it. Is the corn GMO-free?”
It turns out she was pulling up the page to that particular product.
“It’s vegan, soy-free, gluten-free and all natural.”
I waited. After it was clear she wasn’t going to say anything else, I asked again. Is it GMO-free?
At this point, I was put on hold for a bit.
She came back and said, “Our products are GMO-free.”
To which I asked “Great! Are they certified GMO free?”
“I don’t know.”
So in short, I’m not buying that these products are actually GMO-free. If they were, this information would be readily available on their website.
I couldn’t find the GMO free certification anywhere on their website. And if customer service doesn’t even know what I’m talking about when I ask that question… that’s not a good sign.
Other ingredients in Arbonne products that are not safe / recommendable:
Folic Acid
Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate that is naturally found in food. This is a huge problem. Folate is a natural water-soluble B vitamin. Folic acid, however, is a synthesized form of folate that the body is unable to absorb or utilize.
In fact, folic acid supplementation has even been linked to cancer.
“…in the Journal of the American Medical Association — suggesting that all the extra folic acid might increase your odds of developing cancer. “The more we learn about folic acid, the more it’s clear that giving it to everyone has very real risks,” says folic acid researcher David Smith, Ph.D., a professor of pharmacology at the University of Oxford in England.”
Another study out of Chile linked folic acid supplementation with an increased risk of colon cancer.
And yet another study out of Norway linked folic acid supplementation with a 21% increase in lung cancer.
“Folic acid and B12 supplementation were associated with a 21% increased risk for cancer, a 38% increased risk for dying from the disease, and an 18% increase in deaths from all causes.”
While folate is a necessary part of a balanced diet, folic acid has actually been linked to increased rates of cancer (another source for ya).
Pea Protein and Rice Protein
First, let’s consider how protein-rich peas and rice are…or aren’t. 100 grams of peas contains 5.4 grams of protein. 100 grams of rice contains 2.8 grams of protein. 100 grams of whey contains 78.13 grams of protein. Of course, we’re talking average here. This isn’t exact. But even so, whey is clearly the higher source of protein.
Not only that, but pea protein is lacking in amino acids, namely cysteine and methionine. This makes it a poor protein source. Rice (specifically as a protein source) is difficult to digest, particularly brown rice. It’s also high in phytic acid, which prevents the absorption of minerals like zinc, iron, magnesium, etc.
Natural Vanilla Flavor
I take issue with anything listed as “natural flavors.” Because chances are, it’s not all that natural. Hell, even monosodium glutamate (MSG) can be faked as a natural flavor.
In Food Rules: A Doctor’s Guide To Healthy Eating, Dr. Shanahan discusses a study in which 95% of ingredients listed as “natural flavor” contained MSG.
As for “natural” vanilla flavor, it could even be from a beaver’s butt. Beavers secrete castoreum, which smells and tastes remarkably similar to vanilla.
Castoreum is a chemical compound that mostly comes from a beaver’s castor sacs, which are located between the pelvis and the base of the tail. Because of its close proximity to the anal glands, castoreum is often a combination of castor gland secretions, anal gland secretions, and urine…Still concerned you’re chowing down on beaver-bum goop? Because of its FDA label, in some cases, manufacturers don’t have to list castoreum on the ingredient list and may instead refer to it as “natural flavoring.” Yum. Source
I’m not saying Arbonne uses beaver butts in their products. But without truth in labeling, we can’t be entirely sure.
Cornstarch
Cornstarch is a processed food additive usually derived from genetically modified corn. It is a highly processed carbohydrate. It contains no nutritional value and packs roughly 7 grams of carbohydrate per tablespoon.
This can aggravate the digestive tract, particularly if you’re eating corn starch on a regular basis. Overall, I’m most concerned with the chance that the corn is modified. Read more about the harm of GMO corn here and here.
Brown Rice Syrup
When consuming sweeteners, I prefer to opt for healthy versions with nutritional benefits, like raw honey. Brown rice syrup, however, has no benefits. It’s also high on the glycemic index, meaning it can raise your blood sugar rapidly.
One study even found that products sweetened with rice syrup had twenty to thirty times the amount of arsenic than those not sweetened with rice syrup.
Sunflower Oil
While not as bad as corn, canola or soy oils, sunflower oil still isn’t my favorite. Consumed once in a while is fine, but daily in a protein shake or snack bar? That’s when this oil becomes an issue.
We know that there needs to be a proper balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fats. An abundance of omega-6 fats leads to inflammation (which has been linked to everything from cancer to heart disease).
It’s difficult to determine what kind of sunflower oil Arbonne is using exactly, but let’s assume it’s similar to this. The omega-3 content would be around 27mg and the omega-6 content 5374mg per tablespoon! That’s an incredibly inflammatory oil.
And quickly, I want to address Arbonne’s Green Balance product. Is it a healthy product? Yes. It has some great ingredients, excluding the quinoa which has natural phytates.
What I can’t stand is the $50 price tag for one month’s supply. Who can afford that? And why should they? There are even healthier options for cheaper. For example, I use the Garden of Life raw + organic green superfood powder, which is about the same price for two months!
Let’s sum up this Arbonne Review:
Are Arbonne products worth it?
I’ve definitely seen worse products. But I’ve also seen a lot better. The reason I do these reviews is that I want people to know what they’re buying and eating. I want them to know the science. I want to help people. They should know what they’re spending their hard earned money on.
Got comments on this Arbonne Review?
- If you have a review request, please also provide a link to the ingredients. I will delete the comment if it does not.
- Should you leave a review that is disrespectful, unintelligent or attacking, I will remove it.
- If you have a comment that will add to the discussion, please comment below!
204 Comments
You make a big deal of GMO free foods so I thought I would post this link about genetically modified organisms.
http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/06/08/fears-not-facts-support-gmo-free-food/?smid=fb-share&_r=1
P.S. This is what an unbiased blog should look like; just report the facts. No one’s opinion is unbiased.
Please reference the studies I cited. Also the WHO has recently labeled glyphosate and a probable carcinogen.
Thanms for your review. I find mist reps don’t know what their talking about regarding the products. I do like some of their skin products and cosmetics. As for the nutrition stuff, extremely overpriced . I will admit I do like the vanilla meal replacement once week for lunch. Helps me out regarding having to cook something extra . The chews I also like but 1 here and there not 5 a day. Again the stuff is overpriced bc they have to pay out the commission’s and the car leases etc . If you have the discount like I do then it’s not that bad. As for supplements you can get a good probiotoc for 25.00 a bottle for 60 capsules. That’s a 1- 2 month supply . In the last 3 years they’ve had price increases of some items over 25-30 percent which is a lot.
Is it true Garden of life has been bought by Nestle since this post? Do you think it’s still as good as it was?
Hi Dani, thank you for the review. Yours is one of many I have read. I’m wondering if there are any suppliers or products out there that offer the same idea as arbonne and Isagenix, but are actually recommended, natural and proven to work?
I love the idea of a 30 day cleanse that comes in a box, but I also am looking for an honest product.
Their website clearly states GMO free on the nutrition labels that you can individually click on. I am not sure what your credentials are (doctor, nurse, nutritionialist?) You should tell about yourself a little bit so that you can have some credibility. Just a suggestion and nothing more.
Jason, do YOU trust corporate scientists to tinker with gene’s in food?
Putting insect gene’s into plants isnt my idea of a a good thing. Making plants glyphosphate resistant isn’t either.
GMO foods are NOT a bonus for humanity….theyre a bonus to corporate interests.
I’ll have you know that just after one year of using arbonne products, I’ve been having more health issues than I was before the products. The 30 days of healthy living was short term and yes I had more energy but I soon started to notice that I was having allergies and not just food allergies but allergies to arbonne products. I’ve then after dealt with acid reflux, digestive issue and vomiting issues. I was healthier before these products and the only things I can say I liked out of the 30 days was the energy fizz …
I have so many issues with this… but my greatest issue is how much of this is based on assumptions and opinions. I’m not sure how you can call that “unbiased”, especially when you compare specific products against the ones you use, that you already believe are superior. You addressed pea protein and basically called it subpar, comparing it to whey protein and noting a lack of amino acids. The thing is that you didn’t even give the cranberry protein a nod, which has a full amino acid profile and is combined with the pea powder. Also, you compared it to whey protein, which is a common allergen, not to mention has a full array of digestive issues associated with it from bloating to nausea and everything in between, whereas the proteins used in the Arbonne nutrition products are not.
Arbonne products have to pass the standards for the EU, as their ingredients are not modified from one country to another, so whatever is banned there, is not permitted to be used in Arbonne products here, either, and that would include anything GMO.
As for associating the flavoring with Beaver gland secretions, especially without any facts to back it up, definitely doesn’t show an unbiased opinion or a responsible review. Just saying.
I linked to several studies and different publications.
Cranberries have an even worse amino acid profile than peas. If someone has an allergy to whey, they can consume a variety of different proteins that actually contain complete amino acids – eggs, chicken, beef, etc.
Then shouldn’t their products be certified GMO-free? Wouldn’t that be a selling point?
Can you prove or definitively say that the “natural flavors” are not beaver butt secretions? Or that they don’t contain MSG? Because like the book I linked to says, roughly 95% of ingredients listed as natural flavors contain MSG. That’s not something I, or anyone, should gamble with.
I agree with most of what you are talking about, should be able to clasify products as GMO free if they are health products and if ingredients are all so good for you why isn’t everything listed. With no transparency people have full right to make asumptions! I prefer actually eating and drinking produce instead of quick fix replacements
Arbonne products are Vega and certified vegan, so it is stupid to suggest that they use beaver anus. A lot of GMO products are not vegan so there another I’ll advised opinion. Animal products bring about many health problems so people prefer to vet protein from plant based protein sources.
There is no point trying to defend your article, I’ve only read three comments and they all say the same thing, this is not unbiased…
Actually yes. All products are certified vegan. PETA approved. Therefore any animal product or by-product would NOT be used. Please check your facts before blasting a brand that is actually good.
Thank you for your research & review of this product – I’m sorry that you received criticism. Obviously, those are defensive reps of the company.
I am currently halfway through the Arbonne 28-day detox/cleanse & actually feel great, despite the non-organic and potentially irritating ingredients. In researching organic & non-GMO products that I can substitute for Arbonne, when the 28 days is over, I’ve found that Garden of Life’s daily vitamin, probiotics & protein powder provide all the nutrients (& more) than the Arbonne line does. I only want to put the healthiest options into my body.
I have nothing against Arbonne, in fact, have been a rep for that company as well as Amway. I fully support the business concept of multi-level marketing and am happy to recommend a product when I believe in it. However, I am yet to find a MLM company that offers organic, GMO free health products & chemical free skincare…
Garden of Life has some great products. I personally use their prenatal.
Hi Dani, thank you for this review and amazing amount of information and knowledge.
I use Garden of Life unflavored and it’s the best I can find for vegan. My question is about B12 supplements. After reading about the link between folic acid and cancer (and stronger in b12 supplements) I went to read mine’s label- and sure enough it is folic acid. Can you recommend a methyl B12 that uses straight folate? Thanks again! Carol
That company would be Purium hands down. Certified Organic and non GMO. Garden of Life is Amazing but Purium takes the cake. I just use the products, not a distributor.
Hi Angelique, just so you know, Garden of Life tested 1 out of 5 for purity, per the Clean Label Project. So it’s important to take a well rounded look at these brands. I personally, am comfortable with Arbonne’s ingredient policy, as they ban over 2k ingredients throughout their entire line. That’s more than Europe and the US COMBINED.
Best multi on the market is Made by Thorne Research if you’re looking for a good one. AM/PM formulation and no synthetic nutrients. No folic acid and actual folate. Methylcobalamin as well.
Try Suzanne Somers skin care line as they are organic and about as chemical free as any of them I have tried in the past.
Why do they call it flavored and not vanilla….because it is not vanilla
Another thing I’d like to mention that 30 day program only works if you are overweight and you over weight. If you are one of those people and you folow this program of course you will lose weight , you’re drinking shakes twice a day. You can have better luck and better on your wallet by eating a proper diet , not eating a lot of sugars and exercising and of course keeping processed food to a low. But people get drawn in to these quick fixes
OMG, this is so freaking dumb. You are biased completely here. Whey protein better than Pea and Rice, wow. Arbonne is Certified Vegan and use no animal products or by-products or do animal testing. Someone slap her.
Did I say they aren’t vegan or that they do animal testing? Was that ever one of my points? No. Just because something is vegan, doesn’t mean it’s healthy. Whey protein is a much better protein than pea and rice, as I stated, because pea and rice lack specific amino acids. Someone get a clue.
Vegan means no animal byproducts……therefore no beaver butt…..i believe that is what she was getting at with the vegan comment.
Oh! The interesting thing about this is that companies are not required to disclose the source of “natural ingredients” – it can contain over 200 substances including castoreum and still be labeled as vegan legally.
Pea protein is a safe and healthy alternative to whey protein. Pea protein will not make you bloated that is why i personally use it. Also it is a good choice for somebody who has lactose intolerance and is vegetarian.
Insinuating the use of Beaver gland secretions in products without any facts to back up this claim is disappointing and discredits the integrity of a well written ‘unbiased’ article.
With regard to Whey Protein, have you researched the ecological havoc a dairy farm creates for our environment?
I have been using the protein powder for 2 weeks and am in excoriating pain. My stomach cramps made me cry last 2 nights. Something in that powder doesn’t sit right with me. Ill be chucking rest out!!!
I have just finished the 30 day challenge and have been annoyed from the start. Untrained arbonne consultants educating people on products they dont know the science behind. The 30 day challenge says no sugar but yet the protein powder they promote has cane sugar lile the blog says. Then above anything else how can a product be vegan if they actually pht a disclaimer on the packaging that says “made in a facility that process wheat, egg, soybeans, and milk. AND the whole 30 day challenge is no gluten, dairy, or soy. What if its cross Contaminated. You just dont know.
I only know what Ive experienced over last 30 days. The products are hypictrical and that is a huge issue for me.
Hey Dani! Really interesting post! I am an Arbonne supporter and have been using the skincare for over two years and have seen incredible improvements in my skin and do use some of the nutrition products as well. I definitely agree with you that Whey protein is a better source of protein in the sense that it breaks down faster and can be used by the body faster and also has a more complete set of amino acids (I used progenex forever and loved it). However- I switched to the vegan protein because of the allergenic/inflammatory affects of whey. Buttttt you make a very valid point with sunflower oil. What do you think the best balance is? Stay with vegan to avoid whey or go whey for the amino acids? Or even switching to BCAAs? Is there a protein you use and support? Thanks!
Great review. I have been reading many of these and your review is pretty consistent with others I have read. I have a friend who is really caught up in this company and I wanted to support her but the items are very over priced and not as healthy as they claim. Not to mention the whole MLM brainwashing. I will stick to my local health food store and home,ease items that I know are healthy because I made them. I have seen these companies come and go and in my younger years joined one I think almost everyone joins one at least once in their lifetime spends a ton of. Only and realizes this is just not going to work. The flashy cars are not free they are leased and the rep has to pay for it. All I all if I need the product there is a ton of it on eBay and Craig’s list up to 75% off that you can purchase from a person who was stuck holding the bag and wants to liquidate. Great review!
If you know that Arbonne is vegan then why would you even imply that there is Beaver Butt secretions? Sounds like you are using scare tactics instead of proper research.
“As for “natural” vanilla flavor, it could even be secretions from a beaver’s butt. Beavers secrete castoreum, which smells and tastes remarkably similar to vanilla.”
Considering that Arbonne just received Kosher certification and beavers are not Kosher, this does not seem to be an “unbiased” idea.
It doesn’t even have to be disclosed in the ingredient list, so they could label it as Kosher legally.
In order to be able to label “Kosher” a specially trained Rabbi must certify it as such. This includes strict guidelines on every step of the production, including a fully disclosed ingredient list and inspections of the production facilities. A company cannot claim “Kosher” in the same way they can “all natural”. That said, I do very much appreciate being able to find a non- Arbonne source to get a review. Thank you for your efforts
Hello,
We would like to clarify regarding erroneous descriptions of ingredients and the inaccurate depiction of Arbonne and our products on this site.
Arbonne formulas are not natural or organic and we do not make such claims. Our products are a combination of botanicals and science and we do not formulate with any ingredients deemed to be toxic or unsafe. We adhere to a strict Ingredient Policy and Arbonne products go through extensive safety testing and meet regulatory and compliance best practices. Arbonne would take immediate action on any ingredient that is unsafe in any of its formulations when guided by the FDA, the CTFA and the CIR.
Click here to read more about our Ingredient Policy: http://www.arbonne.com/discover/promise/our-promise.shtml. Arbonne ingredients are available to search on our website at: http://www.arbonne.com/discover/promise/ingredients.shtml.
To address a couple of important points posted on this site:
GMO: We source our ingredients to be non-GMO and are exploring certification.
Pea Powder: Arbonne formulates with pea protein, not pea powder.
GMP: We follow FDA defined Good Manufacturing Practices, which means that we have specifications for the quality of all of our raw materials used in our products, including testing for arsenic and other heavy metal levels in each of our ingredients in order to ensure efficacy and safety.
Rice Protein: This is one of the most digestible of all proteins – it’s what is used clinically for those with allergies (also very hypoallergenic) and those on elimination diets, etc.
At Arbonne, we research and develop the best possible products which our Independent Consultants and Clients have enjoyed for more than 35 years. We encourage anyone with concerns or questions about our products to reach out to us directly for accurate and up-to-date information.
Arbonne Communications
[email protected]
Typo-sunflower oil!
Looks like the Arbonne soldiers are out in full force. I appreciate your review. I have a family member that sells Arbonne. I have done the 30 day program. I found it ironic because it calls for no sugar and no corn and yet the protein shake has both. Not to mention all the ingredients that can’t be pronounced. *sigh* everyone just needs to stick with what they like and with what they feel is good for them. I personally am done with Arbonne. Too many vague answers to important questions.
Funny how all the people who have responded are backing Arbonne!! Saying Dani is biased yet they are as well!! Go Dani finally someone with some intelligence reviews rubbish products like Arbonne.
Thank you for your review. I appreciate reading something from someone who is not another fine arbonne representative touting the companies product marketing handbook. I can say that I tried a one month supply of the product and it was pricey but it’s palatable. I probably wouldn’t buy it again because of the cost and their ‘health claims’ didn’t seem To have much effect on me personally. Maybe you have to use it for longer but it’s a bit rich for my blood. It seems like their are other alternatives out there that are probably just as good. I see you are getting a bunch of heck in the comments but I just wanted to say thanks! I appreciate your cander.
Thank you for the review! I really enjoyed reading and I found it very educational. Keep up the good work girl -xo
I think you really did an excellent job on this. I used to sell Arbonne. I can tell you, it can be like a religion. I did it for three years, been to the conventions and all. They are true believers. Don’t confuse them with the fact. 😉
I appreciate your links to science and research. NON GMO , Certified IS a big deal. You are exactly correct. Were it to be certified GMO believe Arbonne marketing is saavy enough to jump all over that and tout it.
I think their beauty products are…meh….as well, except for the day/night creme which really did help a friend’s ecema and rosacea on her face, did clear it. Everything else is overpriced and not natural.
Thanks for the insight, Trudy!
I use Arbonne’s skin care as well. I used to use a more expensive line from The Bay n Holt R. I honestly tried Arbonne at first with samples and my skin liked it. I have Shiseido newly purchased at that time which i have been using for many years and now still in a box untouched coz i started Arbonne. I think it is reasonably priced esp if u are a preferred customer. I never saw my skin so clear until i used Arbonne that means the company somehow is doing something good.
Hey Trudy, how did the consultant things go for Arbonne. I would like an honest review about it.
I am not biased, have never tried their products. A coworker gave me some of their vegan protein powder to try b/c the one I am using is chalky. After reading the ingredients I will not be consuming this product. Even I know, (not an expert, just someone trying to heal herself”, “natural flavors” is a red flag. What I am finding is it is hard to find anything pre made & convenient, that is healthy. I would rather add organic, pasture raised raw eggs in my protein shake, than this product. Thanks but no thanks!
I enjoyed reading this. I got the Arbonne 30 day kit and once I started the protein shakes I’ve been bloated, gassy, sick to my stomach and realizing I just wasted $375! I’m so mad at myself. I should have just trusted myself to go back to eating real food because a powder in a bag isn’t real food. Some people love it – but you’re allowed to hate it too.
Wow, that’s really expensive for a 30 day kit. Sorry you had to experience this!
Isn’t there a 30 day money back option?
45 day money back guarantee
Leila, I just wasted my money as well. So wish I had seen this article before. I recently reviewed my 30 kit and my first shake left me gagging to the point I was almost sick and left me nauseous for the entire day. I agree with you powder in a bad isn’t food. I should have just started with healthy meal planning.
Should have Talked to your consultant. Arbonne has a 45-day money back guarantee.
I really like the Garden of Life protein shakes and all their products. I almost became an Arbonne distributor but read this article and didn’t complete my registration.
I love GOL products!
I have been using Arbouree shakes for at least 10 months now n I have so many stomach issues cramps constipation diarrhea excessive sweating I have 1 or 2 shakes daily with finer greens n their probiotic. I never even thought this may possible be the cause of all my symptoms.
Thank you for the information I may have to return my order I just got 2 weeks ago for $260
I would first like to point out that, as someone said in the comment, non-GMO certification does take a long time. That being said, Arbonne’s protein powder has been certified non-GMO since the publishing of this review so that should be updated.
Second, I see you’re NOT a nutritionist or a doctor. I mean no disrespect, as I’m sure you did a lot to obtain your certification. However, a nutritional consultant and a nutritionist are to very different things and require much different requirements. Arbonne has a team of nutritionists, naturopathic physicians, & doctors formulating their products. They also abide by standards set by the European Union, and ban over 2000 toxins and chemicals. Standards and what is safe and not are always being updated, so while you may think their products aren’t the safest, there is no arguing their standard is far above most American products.
Third, I would love to discuss whey. You made points against pea and cranberry protein but I see in the comments that the only substitute you made for those who can’t have whey is meat. That’s obviously not a viable solution for multiple reasons, the main being vegans. You also failed to mention the problems with whey. Such problems include the fact that it is not a suitable meal replacement, as it absorbs quickly, leaving you feeling hungry later. The fact that it can cause a rise in insulin levels which can be harmful for diabetics, as well as cause weight gain is also left out. And let’s not forget whey is a dairy derivative, meaning it comes with all the same side effects that dairy does, including inflammation, a major cause a many health issues, and acne. A recent study also found that many protein powders, not just whey, include high levels of arsenic and mercury, and I shouldn’t even have to explain why that’s bad. There is a reason whey is the cheapest protein on the market and it’s because it’s often cheaply made.
Lastly, I would like to bring up the fact that there have been multiple studies done on the effects and benefits of rice, pea, and cranberry protein. The biggest benefit should be obvious: it is dairy-, soy, gluten-, and animal-by-product free, making it a hypoallergenic option for a wider range of people. Though plant protein is generally harder to digest, pea and rice protein are known to be the easiest to digest, especially when combined. One of your biggest points was the amino acid profile of those protein. From my research, pea protein IS a complete protein, meaning it DOES contain all nine essential amino acids. However, it is lower in some than in others, which can be supplemented with a clean diet, which is what Arbonne encourages and is essential for any nutrition program. These three combined superfood proteins aid balancing blood sugar, regulating cholesterol, reducing inflammation, regulating digestive tracts, providing essential antioxidants, improving immune function, and reducing the risk of heart attack. They also help you feel fuller, longer than other proteins, making it a viable meal replacement as opposed to just an after workout.
I’m not trying to defend Arbonne as much as I am trying to discuss misinformation.
Yes I agree I was pulled into Arbonne by a lady who is great & all the hype that goes with it she said said become a consultant you’ll be great but first I needed to control my weight. Try the 30 day cleanse but it was money I never really could afford $533 with the joining fee? from the start excessive wind feeling tired & a couple of days ago nonstop burping with a pain across my left shoulder I had to get an array of tablets from my pharmacy to control it but I’m going to the doctor today….. but after reading the reviews I agree chalky taste feeling I wasted my money going back to just good whole foods & daily walks.
Yes, I got absolutely the same experience. Could not finish 30 days program because of feeling constantly bloated.
You were possibly/probably doing too much fiber and not drinking enough water. The pea protein can make you bloat AT FIRST too. Green peas are one of the best plant-based sources of protein, which is a major reason why they are so filling, along with their high amounts of slow digesting FIBER. This is to keep you fuller longer! However this is a cleanse and you do need to give your body time to adjust to it. I had bloating my first week by week 2 it was gone and already looking better and feeling better. The shakes can have every component of “real food”. And you did not have to “waste” your money bc they offer a 45 day return policy. You can literally send back all the empty boxes and get your money back.. but with a 1% return rate they must be doing something right
I trust your opinion and thank you for your research. I’ve been on different rice proteins but am going to stop them. I’m lactose intolerant so can’t drink whey 🙁 . I was drinking isolated whey and it didn’t upset my ‘tummy’ but so many are against it so it only confused me. I wonder if it’s more acidic? From now on you’re my ‘go to’ when I’m thinking of spending money I don’t have. I couldn’t believe the ingredients on several products (that today Dr. Oz) approved. I’m let down. No kid here..i am a sixty year old female who
Is trying to get back in shape and I do a lot of reading. I would like to know how you feel about isolated whey.
Thank-you
Thank you for the info. I was actually about to order the 30 day program and was researching when I ran across your blog. Do you have a vegan protein shake that you have reviewed that would be a better option?
Is there a specific protein powder that you would recommend? I know whey, but is there a brand that would suggest?
Hello! Thank you for your review on this! I know this post is a bit old, but I was wondering what you would recommend for a protein powder\meal replacement for breakfast. I’m not much of a breakfast eater but would like to start having a morning shake after my workout. Any recommendations would be great! Thanks again!
Thank you for your review of the Greens Balance. I have spent the $50 per container (with a 20% discount, but then added shipping costs). I was doing an Internet search to see how natural thesep roducts are for the money I’m paying. I just ran out, and was looking for a less expensive alternative!
I knew none of the skin care was natural (regardless of the marketing). They had way too much loud fragrance that smell like chemicals and rubbing alcohol mixed with plants, herbs and flowers.
I have cancer and after my radiotherapy I’ve been having issues with my digestive system. My mum works for arbonne and pretty much pushed me into this, however I don’t want to be taking something that could perhaps worsen things for myself. I’m so confused because I thought this was completely healthy and I’m not sure if I should stop taking it. But I completely agree, arbonne to me, they really do come across like a cult.
Great review. I only have a few of the protein shake satchets left, so will just finish them I guess, they were pricey! Can you recommend a good, soy-free, sugar-cane free protein shake mix that I can try/use? Soy is the devil and I’m trying to lose weight, not put it on ! All these shakes seem so high in sugar….. It also seems that every protein shake I look at has something in it that’s considered evil, inhumane, carcinogenic etc 🙁
Thanks for this review. It has definitely made up my mind regarding arbonne. Can you recommend a protein powder? I’m not vegan and am not intolerant to dairy. Thanks
Thank you for educating. Many times people need to hear things repeatedly, from several sources and in different ways for awakening to happen. It’s not easy to be a voice of truth and I wanted to home in and say I appreciate you!
Thank you!
Thank you for your review. I just started using the 30 days to healthy living protein powder and digestion plus daily for the past few weeks. The past several days I have been getting acid reflux after drinking the shake with the digestion plus in it. Does this make sense? Any input would be appreciated. I never had acid reflux prior….
I have been using the chocolate protein powder as a breakfast supplement off and on for a few months. I get up early and leave the house rather quickly. It’s nice to drink the protein shake and a banana for breakfast because typically I will skip breakfast. Just adding this to my diet I lost 10lbs rather quickly and feel much better throughout the day. Tastes great, fills me up, & very little gas if any. My point is I guess different products can affect everyone differently. Arbonne isn’t for everyone. I have heard a lot of these products work wonders for people and I have heard the opposite. Don’t knock it till you try it. I’m male 28 6’3 and 200lbs
This was a very interesting post. I use the products and love the way I feel with them but I do understand they’re not for everyone. Not everything is. As a crazy busy mom (who always puts herself last) it’s healthier for me to drink a protein shake than to pick up fast food. Only because I’m human and I’m not always perfect at meal planning. I also know that they have a 45 day money back guanrantee. So that’s definitely something to look into if you’re not happy with it. Also, why would anyone pay $375 for that?! It’s absurd! I’ve always paid way less! Definitely get your money back if it wasn’t for you. Thanks again for the post!
Been using Arbonne shakes now for five months as a meal replacement for breakfast and lunch in addition to the fiber supplement. Also use their fizz sticks as a replacement to the Crystal Light that I used.
You post about whey being a superior source of protein, but you take everything out of context. The shakes have 14+g of protein per serving ( saw a source independent of Arbonne’s site that listed 20g per serving). If you mix with milk instead of water, it will contain even more… Cysteine is not an essential amino acid (it is a conditional amino acid) – not sure if you meant to be deliberately deceptive about that or not, however rice protein does include cysteine. The fact is that pea protein is a complete protein, although it is lacking in the amount of, as you said, methionine. You also seem unaware that cranberry protein contains all 22 amino acids, including the 9 essential. Which is what makes Arbonne’s shakes smart – they combine proteins to make-up for the deficiencies that any one poses as a stand-alone protein source. https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002222.htm
http://supplementpolice.com/cranberry-protein/
Some cons of whey protein (since you didn’t seem to post any);
The sugar found in milk (lactose) is a common allergen that can make whey indigestible for some. And while those tasty flavors make whey a yummy choice, they often (depending on the brand) come with a host of less-than-desirable artificial sweeteners and chemicals. http://greatist.com/fitness/protein-supplement-nutrition-guide
Regarding Folic Acid, there are 61 ‘micrograms’ per serving. Micrograms. There are 400micrograms in a Centrum Performance Vitamin, so again this is why I say you take things out of context. You need to include amounts to give the proper picture, which you clearly do not.
If you look at processed foods most people eat, the ingredients in those are much, much worse than what you seem to be fixated on in these specific shakes, so again, the credibility of this piece takes a hit as it lacks perspective and context.
Also, your discrediting of Quinoa seems interesting, given the positives that are found;
Quinoa is gluten-free, high in protein and one of the few plant foods that contain all nine essential amino acids. It is also high in fiber, magnesium, B-vitamins, iron, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin E and various beneficial antioxidants. https://authoritynutrition.com/11-proven-benefits-of-quinoa/
I’m sorry, but your title is extremely misleading – this review reads as extremely bias as you list negatives but ignore when it suited your narrative all of the positives.
I had a friend talk me into Arbonne. I’ve been working out 5 days a week losing weight & she said it would make me feel great. After starting it I found out she was selling it. Figures.
I don’t dislike it but I don’t have the promised energy & great moods they said I would have.
I have one more week left & I do want to continue a shake for breakfast but their protein powder is expensive. So I got online to find something similar & came across this. I’m glad I did. Thank you for the review.
So in your opinion whey protein powder is okay to use?
My mother has sold Arbonne for 25+ years. She has yet to reach that level to get the Benz. LOL. Always seems out of her reach but I truly think this is more her laziness. I think being a “consultant” typically fails for most people as it is the same old system of exploiting all of your family and friends in order to build a business. Anyways. I am a 5 year cancer survivor. I used the nutritional products throughout my treatment and healing. Seeing as I was 110% unhealthy prior to this, of course my body responded well. But as My wife and I try to get ever healthier and as I do more and more research I find it increasingly difficult to support this product. Everything is so expensive. I really believed in this product when I was younger and much more naive. Now that I have a clue, I have contacted Arbonne and my mother and HER BOSS even.. and consistently am left without answers. The “sleep well” spray contains Valerian Root, which can trigger episodes for those with P.A.W.S. and who have anxiety issues and have come off a long term regime of benzos. When asking if they would consider making a sleep spray without it, I got a generic reply, automatic even. When asking why they are not certified organic or at least labeling what if anything in their product is organic, again met with an almost scary response.. from my mother, an almost cult like defensiveness, and again, from corporate, nothing but endless automated responses on top of pitiful excuses. I am glad I found your article. After asking why I would by their “digestion plus” over Infowars “Biome Defense” and being ignored, I was already near leaving this product for good. After this article I am sure of it. No one responding will ever dare tackle the very practical question you presented. WHY WOULDN’T A COMPANY LABEL NON-GMO or ORGANIC? Such a selling point. The ONLY answer is that they are NOT. Until this changes, GOODBYE ARBONNE!
Getting GMO certification is hugely drawn out and very expensive! It takes a long time to go through every supplier of every ingredient to show all the paperwork that certifies it non GMO. It takes years! Arbonne are working on it I’m at informed. As for organic again they never say they are and reps who do are incorrect. They use wild crafted eucalyptus and marine ingredients which cannot be certified organic. Not every ingredient can be sourced from an organic registered supplier as again, organic certification costs a lot of money. If you are going for quality and purity testing as Arbonne does then organic certification is not possible. Go and research the myth of organic too. Lots of smaller suppliers who are farming with much better methods can’t afford organic certification. It doesn’t mean they aren’t better though. Put the ingredients through purity testing and you really start to see what is good and what is just organic. Advertising has a lot to answer for as does the mass of Mis information available to everyone.
This comment makes me laugh as Arbonne practically shoves down your throat daily the importance of buying organic. Silly that you would mention the “myth of organic” when Arbonne’s Clean Eating Guide, which comes with the 30 Day Program, specifically states the following:
Eat Clean
This plan focuses on eating organic, non GMO foods free of preservatives, additives, pesticides, hormones, antibiotics, artificial flavors and all other toxins. Food is either
fuel or poison. Simply put, anything that can’t be used as energy in the body is a
toxin. Organic fruits and vegetables contain up to 40% more antioxidants than those
conventionally grown. This plan will help you learn how to fuel your body for optimal
health by eating clean, close to nature and TOXIN FREE!
I find your comment quite ironic.
Look into the work of Dr. Ben Lynch. The synthetic form of Folic Acid is bad news for everyone! I read an article from an oncologist that found high levels of unmetabolised Folic Acid in cancer patients. Folic Acid is in anything labeled enriched or fortified.
Thank you Dani for your review and deeper insight into many of the ingredients. Many of my friends sell this or other MLM brands of vitamins and shakes. They just don’t understand when I try to explain. One still didn’t believe me when she started having headaches and then had her appendix removed!
Anyone with chronic health issues is a target by the reps of these companies. If you have chronic health issues, avoid Folic Acid! Find a functional medical doctor or a naturopath who can do appropriate testing to see what’s going on with your methylation cycle. Proper nutrition is the key.
You’re very welcome!
I must say there is a lot of miss information on these posts. St arbonne has 3rd party certification that’s all products are vegan gluten free chemical free non gmo the people who answer the phone are there to take orders and help consultants. We are very transparent .You can get in touch with dR Petter Mctravers you can find him on u tube
Your body responded well but that wasn’t good enough? Is that not a positive experience? lol as for as the spray everything and anything has “side effects” simply don’t use that product if you think you will have a side effect but based on an every dose and the tiny amounts actually in the spray a side effect like your speaking of would be so rare.
Thank you for the information listed above. I have been drinking Arbonne protein powder for about a year… but now I am wondering if I should re-evaluate my shake mix. Do you have another protein powder you could suggest?
I had significant issues with embarassing, horridly foul gas, bloating and a very, very sluggish gut reminiscent of how I felt prior to going gluten free. I was eating a pretty clean diet minus my indulgences in coffee and wine prior to this and use Raw Meal Replacement without any ill effects regularly. Do you know what the Arbonne Maltodextrin source is? Might explain a lot.
I was on the program for 6 of 30 days. After discontinuing the products, my gut took only a couple of days to start functioning much more normally.
Thank you for this! I was having trouble finding time to evaluate this myself (as I was recently at one of their health and wellness presentations), so I really appreciate you sharing your research.
Thank you for this article. It is always good to question what we’re being told and do our own research. Your thoughtful review was very helpful.
Been using Arbonne shakes now for five months as a meal replacement for breakfast and lunch in addition to the fiber supplement. Also use their fizz sticks as a replacement to the Crystal Light that I used.
You post about whey being a superior source of protein, but you take everything out of context. The shakes have 14+g of protein per serving ( saw a source independent of Arbonne’s site that listed 20g per serving). If you mix with milk instead of water, it will contain even more… Cysteine is not an essential amino acid (it is a conditional amino acid) – not sure if you meant to be deliberately deceptive about that or not, however rice protein does include cysteine. The fact is that pea protein is a complete protein, although it is lacking in the amount of, as you said, methionine. You also seem unaware that cranberry protein contains all 22 amino acids, including the 9 essential. Which is what makes Arbonne’s shakes smart – they combine proteins to make-up for the deficiencies that any one poses as a stand-alone protein source. https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002222.htm
http://supplementpolice.com/cranberry-protein/
Some cons of whey protein (since you didn’t seem to post any);
The sugar found in milk (lactose) is a common allergen that can make whey indigestible for some. And while those tasty flavors make whey a yummy choice, they often (depending on the brand) come with a host of less-than-desirable artificial sweeteners and chemicals. http://greatist.com/fitness/protein-supplement-nutrition-guide
Regarding Folic Acid, there are 61 ‘micrograms’ per serving. Micrograms. There are 400micrograms in a Centrum Performance Vitamin, so again this is why I say you take things out of context. You need to include amounts to give the proper picture, which you clearly do not.
If you look at processed foods most people eat, the ingredients in those are much, much worse than what you seem to be fixated on in these specific shakes, so again, the credibility of this piece takes a hit as it lacks perspective and context.
Also, your discrediting of Quinoa seems interesting, given the positives that are found;
Quinoa is gluten-free, high in protein and one of the few plant foods that contain all nine essential amino acids. It is also high in fiber, magnesium, B-vitamins, iron, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin E and various beneficial antioxidants. https://authoritynutrition.com/11-proven-benefits-of-quinoa/
I’m sorry, but your title is extremely misleading – this review reads as extremely bias as you list negatives but ignore when it suited your narrative all of the positives.
I’m also wondering why you keep censoring my post such that it won’t appear on your comments (I’ve been trying to post this since June 2016, yet it always gets moderated to deletion). Too many facts? The site even detects the duplicate post, so it is clear that they are being received on your end.
Thank you for posting this well researched review on Arbonne protein products. My girlfriend swears by their product and while I am trying to support her attempts to eat healthy and lose weght I know there are a lot of red flags. I myself am trying to explore other options for weight loss as her vanity demands we both be truly slim and trim. My comment is really about trying to enlighten and motivate those you love. If they don’t have an open mind then the reactions will always be defensive. Gratitude to you for your sincere efforts. Some of us really do appreciate it.
Arbonne followers go around claiming that their products can cure cancer and actually believe you can rid your body of all acid and “alkalize” yourself. Which is not possible because your body keeps the ph level within a window of .10. Unless you have alkalosis, in which case you are probably dead or in the hospital! These people are morons and dangerous for making wreckless claims with absolutely no evidence to support them! Screw Arbonne and the cult that follows them!!
Thank you! The misinformed claim of being able to “alkalize” your body made by Arbonne – that is when they COMPLETELY lost any chance of earning my business. The complex system of kidneys, skin, blood, and lungs balancing a pH between 7.35 and 7.45 is not something you can change or even something you’d WANT to change. Denatured enzymes (proteins that do work for our bodies) don’t work so well! And denaturing of enzymes is exactly what would happen if the pH moved out of the target range. I so dislike false advertising.
Helps create a more almond state for your body.
*alkaline
Your email address doesn’t work.
Sorry about that! You can reach me here: https://ancestral-nutrition.com/contact/
Didn’t you say Arbonne’s products are Vegan certified? I know their products are labeled Vegan certified and to have this certification a company cannot use any animal products or by-products, but then you went on a whole rant about “beaver butt/ Castoreum”. So unfortunately this completely discredits your “unbiased review” because you clearly did not do complete and full reading or research to make this comparison/claim. You also ignore the fact that they formulate with EU standards not US standards, globally. If you’re going to do a review and post information, maybe do a through, detailed and accurate analysis. It makes me sad there are SO many people on the internet that can claim to be an expert on anything they want and people actually believe it!
I was approached by my trainer and offered a 30 day healthy living plan! Of course I was interested, who wouldn’t? He said they were all natural and plant based but he never mentioned they were all products from X company. When I got them I couldn’t have been more disappointed. Read things like “taurina” in the fizzy sticks and clearly raised a flag. Told him and his answer was: “yes but is plant based not chemical”! What? Anyway, decided to give them a go and since I try as nuch as I can to eat organic natural products and could immediately taste the artificial ingredients, the sweetener etc. I carried on all day with the plan. For the first time during my exercise routine that same night, I felt light headed and nauseous. The next day I woke up with a massive headache, nauseous, feeling really bad and it lasted almost all day. Whatever there is in those products are not making me feel well. Guess that is enough reason to put them back in the box and not using them ever again.
So tell me please, what is a good money conscience nutritional shake?
A good substitute protein source that I have found is the Sun-warrior Protein Blend. If you care about what you put into your body, this is an all natural USDA certified protein that contains no refined sugar or whey. But then again… Wouldn’t the ultimate substitute for protein be to get it in our diets from the foods we eat?
Arbonne is backed by MDs, Code of Ethics, and the BBB. Facts are always a good place to start.
“Arbonne established the Arbonne Scientic Advisory Board to extend our commitment to quality, scientic integrity and healthy lifestyles. The Advisory Board is comprised of leading professionals in science, medicine, health, wellness and nutrition.”
http://www.arbonne.com/discover/promise/science.shtml
http://www.arbonne.com/discover/legal/code-of-ethics.shtml
https://www.bbb.org/sdoc/business-reviews/cosmetic-sales/arbonne-international-llc-in-irvine-ca-13015968/#bbbonlineclick
FYI – Arbonne is not a legitimate source to share because of course they’re going to endorse their own products. Give me some independent sources and then we’ll talk.
As for the BBB – I never contested that they were a legitimate company, although I do personally think MLMs are whack.
If you think “MLMs are whack” then change the title of your article and delete the word “unbiased”. Arbonne is PETA approved and definitely does not source GMO ingredients according to their policy. You are basically saying that you cannot trust labels and then you turn around and insist on them. YOU are absolutely guilty of the very thing you criticize others for – TOTAL misrepresentation. If you are not honest about yourself how can anything you say be trusted. You just prove that ANYONE can say ANYTHING on the internet regardless of whether there is backing for their statements. Even people who apparently don’t know the definition of the word “unbiased”.
You think MLMs are whack, but you sell Beauty Counter? Sounds a bit biased to me.
I read your article and thought it was informative. One question I have is, is there something on the market now that is comparable to Arbonne and maybe not as expensive?
Thank you
Maybe Garden of Life products?
Taking all of these comments in to account but I can say that I completed the 30 day cleanse it did not cost me $375. For a bit I was bloated but when I was consistent with drinking my water and the more I stuck with it it subsided. I have Type 2 diabetes and my numbers have never been better even when I was just eating good foods I have more energy and feel great. It took my sister many months for me to try this and I don’t regret it for a second. my whole family decided to do this together and not one of us had bad reactions and are still continuing to incorporate their products in some way. I can feel my body is healthier now than it was over a month ago. Everyone is different and their bodies react differently
Love this post!
I’ve done the 30 days as well and it’s worked wonders in my eyes. I went from being depressed, tired, moody, feeding my body crap like adderall, energy drinks, alcohol, I’ve had reflux since a child that I’ve literally just felt with because no medication would work for me. The first week I also had bloating but you’ve got to decrease fiber and drink drink drink water.. the bloating will go away and you’ll feel full still which means your taking in less calories? within the first week my energy levels and mood drastically changed to the better and has stayed that way. I quick adderall and all energy supplements besides the fizz cold turkey and I never felt or looked better. My reflux is non existing anymore as well.. my body feels healthy and looks healthy and your not going to get that result from bad products.. and not every program works for everyone that’s why they have the best return policy out there with only a 1% return rate ?????
Hmm, I have been thinking about trying it. What I don’t understand is if it’s so bad for you why are people having amazing results? Why are people who were diabetic now not, why are people no longer having issues with high blood pressure? I know not everything works for everyone, but it seems that this does work for some people. Is this review a review to compare it to other products? Is doing the 30 day challenge a healthy option for those wanting to get starting in changing their life style. I am just trying to figure out what the foundation of the review is.
First, I think a lot of those results are extremely exaggerated because people are selling these products.
Second, when people switch from a diet of junk food and then are drinking shakes and are more mindful of their food consumption in general, of course they’ll see some results.
If this or any other product gets them off junk and on a healthier regime isn’t it worth it! TO THEM!!
Your bagging of MLM is completely biased.
Your problem with products being not GMO Certified is a waste of time since all food and plants we eat have been Geneticly Modified for centuries….
Being Organic is also a waste of time. Can’t change the world in our lifetime, but it is good to strive for, and it will never happen. Look how much food is sold in supermarkets that is not organic!
So long as we are doing better than we we’re, we are better off…..
To strive for this micronutrient or that variety ingredient is also a waiste of time. Just improve what you were doing befor.
It appears your striving for the perfect or even better product is your real desire and is what creates your bias.
This is a half a billon $ p.a turnover busines that has been going for nearly 40 years. If it was crap it would not have survived this competitive market place and it is actually increasing its sales a sales it rolles out into more countries.
Penny pinching and product bashing is not worth the time you spent researching the research which could also be as biased as you….who knows?
No, food has not been genetically modified for centuries. This is an ignorant view of GMOs that I see a lot.
Food has been hybridized naturally for thousands of years. This is a natural occurrence that happens often even without the help of humans.
Genetically modifying occurs in a lab and involves gene splicing and the pairing of substances that would NEVER naturally go together – ie: fish and corn. It is unnatural and independent studies have shown time and again that the consumption of genetically modified foods cause cancer.
I use Arbonne’s skin care as well. I used to use a more expensive line from The Bay n Holt R. I honestly tried Arbonne at first with samples and my skin liked it. I have Shiseido (also a fav product) newly purchased at that time which i have been using for many years and now still in a box untouched coz i started Arbonne. I think it is reasonably priced esp if u are a preferred customer. I never saw my skin so clear until i used Arbonne that means the company somehow is doing something good.
Yes food has been genetically modified for decades, in fact not all gmo processes are even tested to become non Gmo certified. Research that. Dani I suggest you rereview Arbonne. They do have organic and non gmo certification. Arbonne sales are sky rocketing because of the results people are having. I haven’t met anyone who has a negative word about Arbonne. I have just recently heard about the company and have been doing research, thus why I’m on your review. You spent a lot of time on this for…….Grant’s response is everything. If it’s helping people, lowing blood sugar, coming off meds, etc. why the negativity. After all nothing is perfect.
People have results because within the 28 day detox you are asked to replace a meal with a shake (lowering your caloric intake), drink an abundance of water, and eat non processed, clean foods. You also take, essentially a laxative, for a week to help you “detox” in the 7 day cleanse portion of the detox (i know this has changed recently to something you take the duration of the detox, but its still the same thing). It advises that you take it slowly through out the day and be close to a bathroom. You can add a probiotic in and start eating cleaner and drinking water and will likely have the same results. I was an “arbonne consultant” and i didn’t even do the “detox” (Which, by the way, you are not really detoxing your system). You can make a protein shake without protein powder. You can eat clean foods without a company pushing you to drink a tea along with it, and have great changes to your body.
It will make you feel better regardless because the program also requires you to cut out gluten, dairy, soy, corn, msg, processed foods, added sugar and a whole host of other things.
I’m currently in the middle of the program myself, mainly because I’m doing it with a friend and she really wanted someone else to do it with her. I’ve also completed the Whole 30. Because of this, I know that it’s not the Arbonne products, it’s all of the actual food changes that are giving everyone such great results. Arbonne knows this, I’m sure. Eating real, whole foods is much cheaper and more effective than eating whole foods while spending hundreds on Arbonne products.
I agree Tracy. I think I spent about $300 to force myself to eat healthier. LOL
my cousin nagged at me for months to do Arbonne. I avoided her calls, as did most of the family. Finally I agreed to try a sample of the product. I was not thrilled with the taste at all. I also had completed the whole 30 months prior. I decided to spend my money on better food and exercise for free instead of spending a ton of money on the product. When I told her I was not interested she told me I was a horrible person not to care about my health. I won’t buy the product now strictly because of their terrible sales tatics.
All of these programs require the same things. Thrive, Shakeology, Herbal Life, Advocare, Isagenix, and of course the topic of conversation Arbonne. ALL OF THEM REQUIRE A HEALTHY DIET IN ORDER TO SEE RESULTS! The products are simply meant to help guide the clients to a healthier lifestyle overall. Personally, Isagenix makes me sick- The consistency of Shakeology & Thrive turn me off, and I’ve never tried herbal life. I am an athlete on the go so meal repalcement shakes and digestion support are important to me. But dont knock Arbonne for requiring a healthy diet when every “30 day” program on the market requires food change. Why do you think the “Whole 30” is so successful?
This is a great point, Tracy. This is also why a lot of people say they tried it and felt bloated, etc. because obviously when you start cutting out toxic foods, your body is going to react. For some, that means feeling worse before you feel better.
Try it for yourself! There is a 45 day money back guarantee and it’s totallu changed my life / my moms health and hundreds of others I can personally vouch for …
Yeah quinoa is sooooo bad for you lol get real. Ok you are saying that distributers exaggerate positive results with arbonne, but you are literally exaggeratin what’s negative…how are you any different? Smh this entire thing is so biased and you have so.many holes in your review to take it seriously. Like yea we know pea protein isn’t as complete as whey protein, but they use pea protein because arbonne wants to fit the needs of vegans and vegetarians too, as more and more people are becoming vegan and vegetarian as time goes on. Theyd lose a ton of money if they only had whey protein. And yea cranberry protein adds to the pea protein to make it more complete. I’m sorry Eye cause it this is such adds terrible review. And this is coming from someone who doesn’t even buy Arbonne.
I can confirm that I did the 30 days to Health and Wellness plan as a last resort to try and help my lupus. The results were amazing and after only 2 weeks I was off my steroids which had caused me to gain 10 stone and after the 30 days I lost 2 st 2lbs, was steroid free, my lupus symptoms were gone and my intestinal pseudo obstruction pains were minimal with a normal daily bowel movement, something which had alluded me for nearly 20 years. A lot of the products mentioned previously are no longer available. I believe it is like any business that is serious in being pure, it is a work in progress and every time they discover something new or something bad they change the product. Just this last month they had a full change of products due to something they didn’t like in one of their ranges.
As I have said, no company is perfect but from what I know of Arbonne they invest millions of dollars to make sure things are as pure as can be and I’m aware getting vegan certification is very hard.p which they have.
Also please stop pushing whey products. I’ve lived through watching my young daughter be so ill due the ingredients in whey products so I would never ever say they are better than vegan.
Finally, whoever paid nearly $400 dollars should report it to the company as their full set with everything including immunity boosters, vitamins, shakes, fizz sticks, herbal tea, protein powder, greens powder etc cost me just over half of that price.
I appreciate your time in reviewing however I would suggest ringing customer services for vital information is never wise and perhaps next time try their PR Department who have to declare the truth.
My daughter just informed me that she received the “30 day cleanse” for Mother’s Day. So me being dad, I had to Google Arbonne and see what all the fuss was about. You make good points about many things and I appreciate all the info! My first 4 Google results were exactly as you say, someone with an “unbiased” opinion who absolutely swears by this stuff and of course…….is selling it. Truly sounds like another overpriced MLM scam to me and my daughter will have the shits for a month! LMAO
I was looking for a good protein supplement, and still am. My only concerns with using Arbonne shakes/supplements is the folic acid and brown rice syrup, as should anyone when talking about cancer and other detriments to vitamin absorption. I have no issues with pea protein being used, as anyone with allergy and dairy issues have to use a vegan/plant-based source. If they folic acid and brown rice syrup were removed, I definitely would use these products.
Been using Arbonne shakes now for over a year as a meal replacement for breakfast and lunch in addition to the fiber supplement. Also use their fizz sticks as a replacement to the Crystal Light that I used.
You post about whey being a superior source of protein, but you take everything out of context. The shakes have 14+g of protein per serving ( saw a source independent of Arbonne’s site that listed 20g per serving). If you mix with milk instead of water, it will contain even more… Cysteine is not an essential amino acid (it is a conditional amino acid) – not sure if you meant to be deliberately deceptive about that or not, however rice protein does include cysteine. The fact is that pea protein is a complete protein, although it is lacking in the amount of, as you said, methionine. You also seem unaware that cranberry protein contains all 22 amino acids, including the 9 essential. Which is what makes Arbonne’s shakes smart – they combine proteins to make-up for the deficiencies that any one poses as a stand-alone protein source. https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002222.htm
http://supplementpolice.com/cranberry-protein/
Some cons of whey protein (since you didn’t seem to post any);
The sugar found in milk (lactose) is a common allergen that can make whey indigestible for some. And while those tasty flavors make whey a yummy choice, they often (depending on the brand) come with a host of less-than-desirable artificial sweeteners and chemicals. http://greatist.com/fitness/protein-supplement-nutrition-guide
Regarding Folic Acid, there are 61 ‘micrograms’ per serving. Micrograms. There are 400micrograms in a Centrum Performance Vitamin, so again this is why I say you take things out of context. You need to include amounts to give the proper picture, which you clearly do not.
If you look at processed foods most people eat, the ingredients in those are much, much worse than what you seem to be fixated on in these specific shakes, so again, the credibility of this piece takes a hit as it lacks perspective and context.
Also, your discrediting of Quinoa seems interesting, given the positives that are found;
Quinoa is gluten-free, high in protein and one of the few plant foods that contain all nine essential amino acids. It is also high in fiber, magnesium, B-vitamins, iron, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin E and various beneficial antioxidants. https://authoritynutrition.com/11-proven-benefits-of-quinoa/
I’m sorry, but your title is extremely misleading – this review reads as extremely bias as you list negatives but ignore when it suited your narrative all of the positives.
I’m also wondering why you keep censoring my post such that it won’t appear on your comments (I’ve been trying to post this since June 2016, yet it always gets moderated to deletion). Too many facts? The site even detects the duplicate post, so it is clear that they are being received on your end.
I heard their pitch from someone at my kid’s sport who insisted. I’m assuming she thinks I’m fat because she offered their 30 day cleanse/diet program. I wasn’t too into it because I had watched John Oliver’s piece about pyramid schemes. I tasted it the vanilla shake and it was too chalky and the price was too expensive for 30 days. Even if I just wanted to buy the program I was being pushed to join and sell to friends and family which I wasn’t comfortable with. I do agree with Dani saying that people see results because they tell you to not consume foods high in sugar, calories, etc., no fat, no coffee, and pretty much anything that will make you fat and bloated. By the time you cut these foods from your diet, you could be doing a green smoothie or pretty much anything else that’s not on their list. You don’t need their shakes at all. Thanks for your extensive review Dani.
Load of hot air
Obviously the writer has never personally handled beaver castor. I have and it is nothing close to smelling like vanilla.
I was interested until i read the vanilla comparison. Which then made me realize the writer had already formed a negative opinion and researched other negative opinions/facts and never added in positives. Grasping straws.
Unbiased my ass and a waste of reading.
A friend of mine just invited me to a party she is having to sell arbonne so I decided to google reviews and this came up. Now, I’m almost nervous about it. I typically try to get whatever my friends are selling to support them. I have done Advocare and loved it (my wallet can’t support it constantly). I recently agreed to try TruVision and have the unopened packages to start. I also just told a friend yesterday that I would try Thrive. Since you have a lot of knowledge, do you have any knowledge on how these 4 products compare? Any insight is appreciated. Yes, I would love to support all my friends. I also want to lose weight and need help. It would be nice to take the best route. Are any of the Arbonne products good? I’d like to buy at least one thing from her. Thank you in advance
I have been looking at Arbonne for a couple years now. And I have to say that I love their protein powder. I’m a pretty obsessive researcher and I can see and understand that Arbonne doesn’t bother fighting very hard against naysayers or trying to prove that they are healthier than someone else. I found this very frustrating because I always want the absolute facts, and rationales to things, but I can also understand that if a company is making a good product and they feel secure in it they actually don’t have to prove anything especially if they’re doing just fine as they are monetarily. I totally understand why the lack of precise info is difficult for people, as it’s difficult for me too. However I do have to also say that with all the research that I have done, I find that the reviews of Arbonne are just as uninformed, lots of opinion and snarky commentary and not a lot of facts. The only reviews that are worth listening to at this point would be those that have done some chemical analysis on the ingredients and how they work together and where they are sourced. Otherwise you are comparing apples to oranges with things like whey verses vegan sources Etc. And very few of those reviews exist. I think in the end, we all know that the best source for all our food is as close to its original version as possible. How we each react when we indulge in these other types of products is going to be based on our personal makeup as much as it is on the contents of the product. No one is ever recommending replacing your whole diet with any product, so you will always have some balance and can adjust more or less of anything as you see your health increase or decrease. I’m going to continue with the Arbonne protien and other products because I enjoy them and appreciate the low sugar and the vegan aspects. If you want companies and other people to stop marketing their products when they’re not putting out full information, then you should also really stop bashing when you don’t have full information to prove otherwise, either.
And as far as consultants go, I am not nor have ever been in Arbonne consultant although I have a good friend who is. I watched her go from a young low confidence girl to a beautiful professional due to their training program and is making considerable income. I’m sure success is up to the individual as it is with anything else and I’ve never been a fan of multi-level marketing myself, but I’m very impressed by what I see here and the way they talk about their people and life.
So.. Looking through the ‘unbiased’ review of Arbonne it seems pretty biased..
Whey protein may have a higher amount of protein but you need to understand that a lot of the people who are using the Meal replacements and protein shakes are VEGAN. They do not WANT to consume whey. I’ve tried 3 vegan proteins and I’m gonna be completely bias and say Arbonne is the BEST.
Also, trying to gross people out about making it sound like they use beavers butt secretions is ridiculous. The first thing you should know is that Arbonne doesn’t use any animal products or animal by products. These are things you should realize before writing a review like this. Maybe get your friends to try it and see if they have the same opinion as you?
I appreciate your review. But I do have some questions. What protein would you recommend for someone who is lactose-Intolerant and has an egg allergy? Other than meat. I really liked Arbonne’s protein shakes, they also never bothered my stomach. They made me feel fuller longer, gave me a different kind of energy and tasted good. I understand whey has more protein in it but I can’t consume it for many reasons. I also know many people that consumed whey regularly and experienced insane inflammation and bloating and they didn’t experience that with Arbonne protein.
I also don’t think there is corn that has never been genetically modified… Or a lot of other foods for that matter.
But how natural can something be if it comes in powder form?
I didn’t lose a bunch of weight with Arbonne, but my good friend did. And it did help me pay more attention to my diet and the ingredients of what I am putting in my body. So overall I did benefit from it, just not in the way I thought I would.
I’m not a consultant, I am a product user. I honestly look for reviews of each of their products but I can only speak to what I experienced and lead me to Arbonne. I have an Autoimmune condition that rocked my world in 2013. I spent the next 20 months being passed around from specialist to specialist, 12 in all. The only common thread was try “gluten free and dairy free.”
After talking with my sister-in-laws aunt, who was not a rep, but had done the 30 day program for 9 months, after she developed a shell fish allergy in her 50’s and went away subsequent to the long term detox that Arbonne touts with it’s 30 day program; I decided to give it a try. Frankly at that point, I would have tried anything but since the products are gluten and dairy free, & it was in line with what I was already doing, I figured it was worth a shot. They make no medical claims and the thought of things getting worse, well was hard to fathom.
Here I am 9 months later, i.e. 09/2016- 05/2017, it worked for me. I went from using 17- 20 medications a day to “function” (not one of those medications was for mental health although sometimes I wonder why) to 5 medications. I have only been able to lose 18 lbs in that time, but before I started it I had put on 80 due to my lack of mobility with my disease. I can stand upright, and walk without assistance again. I’m no longer plagued by rashes, and peripheral swelling, absceses and hair loss. The overall quality of my life has increased 10 fold.
The 30 day program, and specifically their shakes, made it easy. Easy to do, easy to follow, easy to keep up with. Between my 3 children and my full-time plus job, it’s nice to have a brand I can trust with results I have proof of. I had done whole 30 and other paleo and atkins like programs, I always ended up with vitamin deficits or blinding migraines. I don’t have time in my life to go back to school full time to get a degree in nutrition.
Clearly, it’s not like walking into your own non GMO garden everyday and picking fresh plants and herbs, raising your own chickens and grass fed cattle, or making 3 trips a week to the grocery store/farmers market to do the same, but it works. It’s also a lot less time consuming, and averaged out over maintenance, fertilizers gas, water etc, might even be cheaper depending on how many mouths you have to feed. As far as beaver parts, wow, that was low, and unnecessary. It does what it says it’s going to do, the way it says it’s going to do it. Science AND Nature. As far certifications, check their website. It’s 2017 lots has changed. I see a company that’s been in business for 38 years and strives to continue improving itself. A desire to be better, do better, live better… we should all be inspired to do such things.
Well, I read this in hopes of reading something unbaised but it quickly turned into a bash fest and a wreckless comparison to whey, not everyone can tolerate lactose actually up to 75% of the worlds population and 25% of Americans have varying degrees of lactose intolerance. http://www.pcrm.org/health/diets/vegdiets/what-is-lactose-intolerance
I personally started using Arbonne nutrition products Feb. 20th of this year. I signed up as a preferred client ( one time $20 fee, kind of like a Costco membership) which enabled me to a 40% discount on their ” Arbonne Special Value Packages” and 20% off anything else. The 30 day kit is $260 plus tax and you get 60 servings of the replacement shakes, 60 servings of the fiber boost, 30 Digestion Plus (pre and probiotic) 60 coffee replacements, (fizz sticks), either the Greens Balance or the 7 day Body Cleanse and 2 boxes of Detox tea ( it’s a big box so I might be missing something here). I personally feel this is not a huge expense, since I live in CA and food here can cost an arm and a leg and we were already spending upwards of $150 a week for just the 3 of us! Well anyway, prior to starting the program, I was overweight, diabetic, chronic pain, diverticulosis had high blood pressure and cholesterol. I completed my first 30 day program and lost 30 lbs. I was able be taken off both diabetes medications and reduce my blood pressure medication to half. After complting the second round, I lost another 15 lbs and I am off all medication ever since. The results are long term as long as you are willing to take what you learn via, your coach, handbook or the Facebook support page and actually incorporate the healthy eating habits in your everyday life. I found that this program changed my relationship with food, I actually crave the way my body feels when I am cleansing because it actually helps eliminate dairy which my family is lactose intolerant, a lot of my sensitivities to food (which was causing inflammation, weight gain, digestive agony and bloating hence the inflammation and chronic pain!) Since the inflammation has subsided and I’ve lost weight, I no longer have nerve pain, back and joint pain, swelling and reoccurring migraines. I completed 3 rounds since I started in February and I am down 70lbs. I eventually got my husband to start with me and he’s down almost 40 lbs without following the same restrictions ( he still snacks and eat more than me but keeps it gluten-free and dairy free). In regards to the sugar cane and other ” sweetener” listed, I look at it this way, it does improve the taste and to me the taste is most important, because face it, if it doesn’t taste good I cannot see myself drinking it long term and what I’m drinking is healthier than what I was eating before and being a busy Mom, easy to replicate and safe for the kids too! I just now started my 4th round, challenging myself to go completely vegan and drop my last 15 lbs! What I am getting at is:
#1 yes nutritional products and eating healthy food is expensive! Your health is an investment, not an expense unless you don’t take care of your health and end up paying hospital bills, Dr bills and prescription co-pays!
#2 You can lose weight and maintain it on the program
#3 The protein is a great alternative if you are vegan, gluten, soy intolerant.
#4 I feel amazing and don’t ever want to go back to taking those nasty medications with terrible side effects again!
#5 It is not for everyone but it is for me!
I realized this review is 2 years old, so maybe your transparency experience was different then but I haven’t had any issues this year, their website and customer service was very helpful to me as well as my “coach” (consultant) being very helpful!
Been using Arbonne shakes now for over a year as a meal replacement for breakfast and lunch in addition to the fiber supplement. Also use their fizz sticks as a replacement to the Crystal Light that I used.
You post about whey being a superior source of protein, but you take everything out of context. The shakes have 14+g of protein per serving ( saw a source independent of Arbonne’s site that listed 20g per serving). If you mix with milk instead of water, it will contain even more… Cysteine is not an essential amino acid (it is a conditional amino acid) – not sure if you meant to be deliberately deceptive about that or not, however rice protein does include cysteine. The fact is that pea protein is a complete protein, although it is lacking in the amount of, as you said, methionine. You also seem unaware that cranberry protein contains all 22 amino acids, including the 9 essential. Which is what makes Arbonne’s shakes smart – they combine proteins to make-up for the deficiencies that any one poses as a stand-alone protein source. https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002222.htm
http://supplementpolice.com/cranberry-protein/
Some cons of whey protein (since you didn’t seem to post any);
The sugar found in milk (lactose) is a common allergen that can make whey indigestible for some. And while those tasty flavors make whey a yummy choice, they often (depending on the brand) come with a host of less-than-desirable artificial sweeteners and chemicals. http://greatist.com/fitness/protein-supplement-nutrition-guide
Regarding Folic Acid, there are 61 ‘micrograms’ per serving. Micrograms. There are 400micrograms in a Centrum Performance Vitamin, so again this is why I say you take things out of context. You need to include amounts to give the proper picture, which you clearly do not.
If you look at processed foods most people eat, the ingredients in those are much, much worse than what you seem to be fixated on in these specific shakes, so again, the credibility of this piece takes a hit as it lacks perspective and context.
Also, your discrediting of Quinoa seems interesting, given the positives that are found;
Quinoa is gluten-free, high in protein and one of the few plant foods that contain all nine essential amino acids. It is also high in fiber, magnesium, B-vitamins, iron, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin E and various beneficial antioxidants. https://authoritynutrition.com/11-proven-benefits-of-quinoa/
I’m sorry, but your title is extremely misleading – this review reads as extremely bias as you list negatives but ignore when it suited your narrative all of the positives.
For those interested, I’ve lost 45 pounds and went from not being able to run a mile to running a half marathon in 2016 to a full marathon in 2017.
My husband is studying biology in college, and he was horrified by the presentation i attended for a friend. The whole alkilinity and acidity thing is false. As the author pointed out, corn is in the ingredient list, yet the program tells you to cut corn from your diet. A bit difficult to do if their own products have it, ya think? Same deal with sugar. Sorry toots, but sugar cane IS sugar. Its just not the typical refined, processed white table sugar you’re used to seeing. Molasses comes from sugar cane. Turbinado sugar comes from sugar cane. It’s sugar.
You want to talk about a company that is fully transparent, can answer your questions with real science, and is certified organic and vegan? Ritual. Its a daily vitamin for women.
As much as I’d like to support my friend, i cant see spending that sort of money for stuff that whole foods sells. Whole foods may be expensive, but not as much as this sort of stuff. Nor does whole foods require me to badger others into trying stuff.
Thanks for the review. I even learned something new…beaver butts.
Those are great points, Christine!
Noo they say no ARTIFICIAL SUGARS!!
I, too tried their protein drinks. They tasted terrible. But i do love the fizz energy drink mix.
Wonder why sodium is so high 258mg per fizz packet?
Wonder why each fizz packet has to contain 258mg sodium?
Even their fizz sticks have cane sugar as the second ingredient!
Thank you so much for your review. Here in Australia- A friend has contacted me to talk to me about Arbonne products. I have not heard of them before. She used to be with Isagenix for 4 years. So now there is a new trendy product in town. No thanks, I’ll stick to real food. Thanks for the heads up about folic acid. I’ll let my friends know.
I like your work!
I have used Arbonne products for over 10 years. If they work for you then I say go for it. I’ve been in healthcare for 25 plus years and know for a fact that the oncologists that I work around would never tell a cancer patient to use whey or soy protein. Kids are going through puberty at very young ages because we continue to expose them to dairy, whey and other hormone driven ingredients. Every product that is out there has something that might be a little harmful but walking outdoors everyday can do the same thing. I am religious with the vitamins, protein and face products and so is my entire family. As an autoimmune patient myself, my doc has been very pleased with my blood work and potential remission since using the products and changing my diet. So much so that he even recommends them to his other patients and uses me as a best practice on self care.
I’d like to see an Unbiased review of Thrive products. Le-vel.com is their website. Have you already done one?
I will never eat/drink anything labeled “natural vanilla flavors” again! I had no idea..
Thank you for this review and the other reviews you have done on meal replacements such as isogenix etc. It has snapped me out of getting suckered into a quick fix thing that is not sustainable and not as healthy as the sellers/people that got suckered into selling claim. Why cant we just eat healthy like real fruits/veggies and obtain the same results? These sellers that are just trying to make money make you feel like their products are the only thing that will help you obtain your weight loss goals. It is a bunch of crap and very glad I ran across this review. It really opened my eyes. Thank you for this honest unbias review.
Genetically modified organisms sustain life on this planet. And for reference, as someone who has taken upper level biology courses, any corn that we eat today is “genetically modified.” Genetic modification can refer to evolutionary processes as well. If the corn we know today was not genetically modified, we would be eating hard, tiny kernels, and the plant would be extremely hard to grow. “Golden rice” in Asia improves vitamin consumption for people who do not have access to such nutrients. People should really actually know what they are talking about before they go on a rant about genetically modified organisms. Maybe you should do more educational research.
Thanks.
Hi Anna, I sincerely doubt that you took upper level biology courses (at least any that factually and accurately covered the topic of genetic modification) because if you did you would know that what you’re referencing is hybridization, not genetic modification. The difference is quite simple. Hybridization happens in nature and farmers have been practicing it for thousands of years. It often even happens without human intervention.
Genetic modification on the other hand does not occur in nature. It involves splicing genes, combining genes of species that would never go together (like a tomato and a fish) and altering the DNA of a plant to withstand being sprayed with toxic chemicals. It happens only in a lab and is performed using high tech equipment by scientists.
See the difference?
Hybridization and genetic modification are two entirely different things. Clearly, I am not the one who needs to do more “educational research.”
I guess here’s my two cents. I just finished using the 30 days to healthy living from Arbonne and really loved it. I’m less bloated/gassy than I was before, have way more energy than I’ve ever had before, my anxiety issues have drastically decreased, my blood sugar levels have evened out, and I haven’t had as many asthma problems as I was having before. I understand that having all of these certifications and looking for nit-picky ingredients is important to some people, and that’s fine. But to me, anything that someone can use to get themselves healthier than they were before is a win in my book. I don’t know that anyone ever eats perfectly all the time. I feel like we’re so quick to become researchers when looking at which healthy product is healthier than this other healthy product, yet we have no problem with questioning what’s in that bag of cheetos we just ate. Know what I mean? When it comes to health everyone always wants to be the expert, but really this is all about people doing what they believe is best for them. If they’re not perfect at it, that’s ok. If Arbonne is what’s helping someone become a healthier version of themself then that’s great. If it’s another company’s product, that’s great too. We’re all just doing what we can to take care of ourselves in the best way possible, right?
I was an Arbonne distributor for a few years, during which time I became a certified nutritionist. After becoming better educated about nutrition, I had to resign from Arbonne as a distributor because their ingredients and most of their formulas didn’t cut the mustard. To start with, that long list of vitamins on the nutrition facts are mostly synthetic. Then, they list whatever real food there is as “other ingredients,” starting with a protein blend that contains “pea protein isolate.” That makes this a kind-of food-based shake fortified with synthetic vitamins and isolated protein. Then add some “cane sugar” which is basically just sugar, and a few green foods, and you have pretty inferior product, from a nutritional standpoint. For the cost you might as well call Herbalife.
Your article did have some points that I disagree with. For example, the theory that you must get all your amino acids in a perfect, complete profile, in one sitting, has been debunked many times over. And, whey or any dairy product comes with a laundry list of evidence-backed concerns.
But overall, I think you did a great job exposing this phony “nutritional” product. Good job and keep up the good fight!
I’m not affiliated in any way – just came across your piece in my random web searches for reviews and other info on their shake products which I have not (yet) tried.
In bagging out vegan protein sources, do you realise that for those with allergies to dairy, pea protein is a great alternative? And it’s not regular green garden peas that are used. Marketing yourself as plant-based and specifically vegan, means Arbonne are choosing to not use dairy and it’s a great option for vegans and people with allergies. Harping on about whey is irrelevant. You’re not comparing like products. This is not unbiased.
I agree with your review of these products. I have a friend who has been very successful in selling these products. I’m very happy for her success, but the promotions drive me crazy! She recently posted about a drink she made using several of the products. I went to look up the ingredients of the products and that’s how I came to this review. Just reading the ingredients, all the red flags came up. There is so much corn in everything! Ugh! And all those fake highly processed proteins, disgusting. I don’t agree that whey protein powder should be used instead, however. None of that crap is good for our bodies. Just eat real food from animals fed their natural diet and raised with loving care.
Arbonne NEVER calls itself all natural – ever. You didn’t do your research. i wish you had.
My daughter is an Arbonne consultant and I am now too. Not all products (of any brand) are meant for everyone. With that said,my skin looks/feels better and I have lost weight using their nutritional products(something I haven’t been able to do in years). Arbonne stands behind their products. They mery EU standards which is stricter than Uss guidelines. Your post is far from independent given you endorse other products.
Pingback: arbonne vegan protein powder ingredients | healthy vegetarian ideas
My wife was a rep for Arbonne for about 6 months. She got tired of the pressure from the upper levels to SELL,SELL,SELL. Her “immediate” upper level kept harping how our bodies are too acidic and was pushing some of their junk that was supposed to make your body more alkaline! She would say stupid things like “your body is a 7ph it is too acidic!” REALLY? Ignore the FACT that the body regulates acicdity and if you could override that function, you would not live long. And on the scale 7 is NEUTRAL! Trying to explain it to the brain-washed ninny was pointless. Anyway, my reason to comment here is I found a bag full of the “Daily Power Packs” and wanted to know what was in them. My web search also led me here. And ya, folic acid at 200% requirement (really? there is a requirement for folic ACID?). I threw the crap in the trash – but with some guilt over putting toxic junk into the environment.
Pyramid…period.
I think you need to redue your research here. Many false statements and false facts.
If you truly want to be unbiased you better get your facts right.
Arbonne terminated at least if not more than 200 people from their company, this is a fact! You are not in business for yourself, they can for any reason terminate you. You would have to hire an attorney where they are located which no one can afford. Many of the leaders are paid to say only what the company wants. Many have personally seen the owner drunk. Do your research the company has no integrity and the ingredients are not all natural and very expensive. Many consultants bought inventory and took a huge loss financially and in their relationships. This is all truth!!
Been using Arbonne shakes now for over a year as a meal replacement for breakfast and lunch in addition to the fiber supplement. Also use their fizz sticks as a replacement to the Crystal Light that I used.
You post about whey being a superior source of protein, but you take everything out of context. The shakes have 14+g of protein per serving ( saw a source independent of Arbonne’s site that listed 20g per serving). If you mix with milk instead of water, it will contain even more… Cysteine is not an essential amino acid (it is a conditional amino acid) – not sure if you meant to be deliberately deceptive about that or not, however rice protein does include cysteine. The fact is that pea protein is a complete protein, although it is lacking in the amount of, as you said, methionine. You also seem unaware that cranberry protein contains all 22 amino acids, including the 9 essential. Which is what makes Arbonne’s shakes smart – they combine proteins to make-up for the deficiencies that any one poses as a stand-alone protein source. https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002222.htm
http://supplementpolice.com/cranberry-protein/
Some cons of whey protein (since you didn’t seem to post any);
The sugar found in milk (lactose) is a common allergen that can make whey indigestible for some. And while those tasty flavors make whey a yummy choice, they often (depending on the brand) come with a host of less-than-desirable artificial sweeteners and chemicals. http://greatist.com/fitness/protein-supplement-nutrition-guide
Regarding Folic Acid, there are 61 ‘micrograms’ per serving. Micrograms. There are 400micrograms in a Centrum Performance Vitamin, so again this is why I say you take things out of context. You need to include amounts to give the proper picture, which you clearly do not.
If you look at processed foods most people eat, the ingredients in those are much, much worse than what you seem to be fixated on in these specific shakes, so again, the credibility of this piece takes a hit as it lacks perspective and context.
Also, your discrediting of Quinoa seems interesting, given the positives that are found;
Quinoa is gluten-free, high in protein and one of the few plant foods that contain all nine essential amino acids. It is also high in fiber, magnesium, B-vitamins, iron, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin E and various beneficial antioxidants. https://authoritynutrition.com/11-proven-benefits-of-quinoa/
I’m sorry, but your title is extremely misleading – this review reads as extremely bias as you list negatives but ignore when it suited your narrative all of the positives.
I’m also wondering why you keep censoring my post such that it won’t appear on your comments (I’ve been trying to post this since June 2016, yet it always gets moderated to deletion). Too many facts? The site even detects the duplicate post, so it is clear that they are being received on your end.
I am currently in my 9th day of the 30-day Arbonne detox. I have been curious about the product and started to read blogs for and against Arbonne. You have peaked my interest about the ingredients in their products. Once I received my package I did review the ingredients and wondered why I am seeing sugar and corn in the list. I also know that not all “Stevia” is pure and could contain artificial sweeteners to make up the remaining ingredients; I have my concerns. I will complete my 30-day detox/cleansing but will then purchase from my local health food store as mine does not push any particular one, but in fact looks out for my best interest and show me the products that will best suit me.
I realize this post is older, but I have a friend who began using/selling Arbonne about six months ago, and the only reason I found this post is because I have been trying to research a bit about the products themselves, because my friend looks terrible, and I’m worried that these products are harmful. Now that I see ingredients I understand why she looks sick. Not only for the reasons you mentioned already, but there also is a huge amount of sugar in these products, also an inflammatory food. Reading the ingredients lists here, I see nothing that makes these “healthy”. There are grocery store granola bars that are more nutritious. Also, when my friend was trying to sell me on this, I had commented that Arbonne was a pyramid scheme and she got super defensive, and a bit weird TBH. The last time she tried to sell me something it was skincare, and both she and her boss (?) tried to sell me on the beauty products based solely on the fact that Arbonne didn’t contain castor oil and that castor oil was so bad for us, and pointed out that castor oil was in nearly all skincare products. Well, I did a little research, and could find nothing that said anything about castor oil being “bad” in beauty products. I think that they just jumped on castor oil because it IS in nearly everything,therefore forcing people who believe their spiel about it being bad to buy thr Arbonne products. The whole company comes off as shady to me, and my friend does look ill. Thanks for your blog, I hope you are still doing these reviews.
Wonder why each fizz packet has to contain 258mg sodium?
In your opinion, is the herbal detox tea bad for you>
Hi! I appreciate the info that you shared, Dani. I am currently doing the Arbonne 30 day program. I have been concerned about the high sugar content. They are telling me that it is different because it uses the raw sugar stalk. Is that possible? In my research, it seems like cane sugar can be crystallized or non-crystallized but nothing about using the raw stalk. Do you know anything about this? Thank you!
I know this is older, but Arbonne has updated things like all companies do. Their foods are now non-GMO certified. (Its inexcusable that the customer service rep didn’t know at least what non-GMO meant though!) They don’t use whey protein shake since it comes from milk and all of the company’s products are vegan. The food program price is (as of May/June 2018) $266.40 for 30 days. I am a consultant and sincerely apologize if another consultant misled anyone on pricing or how to achieve discounted pricing. I haven’t tried any of Beautycounter’s products, but I do know of people that like them. I’m especially glad that more and more people are being taught about the negative effects of so many of the chemicals used in everyday products, whether skincare, food, cleaning etc. I’m glad more and more companies are doing this, particularly network marketing firms like Arbonne and Beautycounter since consultants can really explain these matters to clients, as opposed to individuals having to learn on their own and then read every single label in the store. No one has time for that in our busy world. If anyone has more questions about Beautycounter, please reach out to Dani or on Arbonne please feel free to reply here. Network Marketing is not a pyramid scheme and can be an excellent way to develop an asset based earning stream which could benefit you as you desire to slow down and begi to retire. The future lies in businesses you can do from your phone.
Thanks, Dani for keeping consumers aware and I encourage you to keep reviewing companies and their real commitment to their missions. Feel free to reach out if you’d like to know of any updates. Arbonne is refining its primary drink mix and the protein powder to further remove ingredients of question, including cornstarch (even though it is non-GMO sourced). Should be ready late summer into fall.
Hi! Just wanted to come on and say first off thank you for the information provided here. I know the company is constantly refining and reformulating so I went and checked (I do realize this review was written in 2015) I did my own thorough research since I’ve been on the program with Arbonne for over a year and a half and was concerned about some of the claims here. My friend sent me this article. Arbonne Essentials now is verified by the NON GMO Project. It seems they are in the process of getting all 400 products certified but have some so far that have been verified in the nutrition category. They added the seal to their site next to the various other certifications. Here: https://www.arbonne.com/discover/promise/index.shtml
I searched the NON GMO Project here: https://www.nongmoproject.org/find-non-gmo/verified-products/results/?brandId=10779
Corn starch is not included at all in any ingredients. Its actually on the “not allowed list” which is the 1400 known ingredients baned by the EU plus 600 other things that through testing Arbonne decided to say “no” to. I went and visited the facilities in Irvine CA and had a gazillion similar questions you did. Everything is 3rd party tested and I have access to those studies which is pretty transparent. Here is that list:
https://www.arbonne.com/discover/promise/not-allowed.shtml
As the folic acid, I read through the cited journals and the Chile study compares flour fortification in things like enriched cereal grains during a period that Chile required this process so I’m confused a bit by the relationship there. The company does not allow any kind of wheat or gluten based ingredients. Also, the Folate that is used in the protein shakes is naturally derived B9 which through my research, is found in peas. I found this when searching their website “Folate is the form of vitamin B9 that is found naturally in food. When it is present in food or dietary supplement fortification, it is in the form of folic acid and is the only form that is allowed in some countries for inclusion as additions to dietary supplements and foods. For all of these reasons, folic acid is the form of vitamin B9 in our protein shakes.”
They don’t carry the ready to drink shakes any more which is where I saw folic acid listed in your ingredients above.
I also searched their justification and the forms in which sunflower oil and brown rice syrup are used. I wanted to know what they were derived from and how healthy or unhealthy they were. I found that the sunflower oil which you listed above is a traditional sunflower oil (Omega 6) higher in linoleic acid. They only use oleic acid which is Omega-9 which is a monounsaturated fatty acid.
In regards to the protein formulation, I’m not sure if at the time of this research you were able to look into the reason cranberry is also in the mix. In what research I was able to do today, I saw that cranberries have a moderate to high amino acid score and rice also has amino acids naturally. The 30 day program suggests getting rid of inflammatory allergenic foods such as soy, gluten, dairy so Whey wouldn’t work for people on the Healthy Living Program.
This is a link to the new and improved protein shake ingredients list: https://www.arbonne.com/store/AMUS/product/Vanilla-Protein-Shake-Mix-Powder-US-2070,1476,272.aspx
From one blogger to another, I appreciate your work on here and your reviews. I wanted to let you know what I found and some of the major things that have changed since this was written.
Best Regards, Stephanie
Thanks for this Dani, I was about to buy an Arbonne product, but had my doubts as to why it should be so expensive considering it is not organic or gmo free, so did some research and found your blog. Your information is incredible, especially facts about folate. I have recently had an appointment with a nutritionist and have cut out dairy, gluten and sugar. Everything I buy is fresh, organic when I can get it, and in it’s natural state, nothing processed and this is what also worried me about Arbonne. The products must be highly processed? I do buy Hemp protein powder and others such as Moringa, Spirulina, Maca etc. All organic and soil association approved. Think I’ll stick with cramming in the fresh stuff.
Hi Dani, OMG! I feel so blessed that I payed attention to my “gut” when I went to my neighbor’s party representing this program and before signing up, went home and online and FOUND your website. I strive to continually increase my knowledge of food choices relating to organic, GMO free, and clean eating, but due to so much information, I often feel hopeless in ever getting to a solid platform of food knowledge that feels satisfying. Luckily, when I started to go over the “order sheet” with my neighbor, I started to sweat profusely and I felt so much anxiety that I mumbled I was having a “hot flash” from menopause and ran out the door. I used to be highly fit and I am now overweight. I can feel lack of confidence due to gaining weight, BUT it is important to remember this IS or can be the vulnerable spot where these programs get you to make a snap decision and start flipping your bills.
Additionally the program offer of being a “PC” (preferred client), which gives you product money savings and free shipping for a year, seems to be a dangler subliminally to get you to start viewing this program as a commitment for months and/or years to come. In this brief encounter with my neighbor, I did keep politely asking for the printed material of the recommended food choices and the actual recipes that she narrowly slipped in her sales pitch to subsidize your daily food intake with their products. She kept cycling her words back to “you eat healthy foods all day long that you want and you don’t count any calories”. I had to keep re-evaluating my requests mentally as I felt confused, and then I felt anger that I was being played and she was most likely intentionally avoiding having to share that key information before I signed on the dotted line. I am grateful you have done research on this company and have been willing to share it. Thank you.
Time to update your review. The ingredients have changed in the past 3 years and your information is no longer accurate.
Appreciate that this review was written three years ago or more, but in terms of availability of information, there is far more now readily available on the Arbonne website (including confirmation that the nutrition products are non GMO). Most can be found here: https://www.arbonne.com/discover/promise/index.shtml
In the interest of maintaining a fair and unbiased approach, it may be worth revising and updating the review based on what is now available, especially given that people do make purchase decisions on the assumption that reviews of this nature are current.
I was just diagnosed with acute pancreatitis. I had a suspicion it could be from drinking 2 Arbonne shakes per day for quite a awhil. I wonder if that could be why.. My body may have a difficult time digesting this stuff. Anyway, I am done with it now, but best of luck to all on the program.
Would you be willing to revisit your review on Arbonne? I’m very interested in health and wellness and have been digging into many of the companies that provide products in this sphere, but do not have the training/credentials and have not done enough research yet to know the pros/cons of how they’ve changed their ingredient policy. I know that they’ve undergone several changes in the last 2 years and I’d be curious to see if you have the same views as you did in 2015. I’ve linked their ingredient policy below.
http://www.arbonne.com/discover/promise/index.shtml
Thanks.
Thank you for the post. Just wanted to update you on your article. Arbonne’s products are now all certified GMO free. They are a part of the GMO project as well as certified clean, meaning their products have gone through 3rd party credible testing.. for example our phytosport line for athletes is approved for Olympic athletes. A part of the BSCG. Certified Vegan, certified gluten free, soy free, cruelty free, Arbonne has over 2,000 ingredients that they do not allow in any of their products whereas you may know USA guidelines are roughly 11 ingredients banned from being in products. Arbonne was also awarded #1 for healthy living inside and out. As you probably already know, whatever we put on our skin and in our bodies enters our blood stream in a matter of seconds (26 sec) … would love for you to give Arbonne another chance.
Thanks again for the review.
I just want to say that I am not an Arbonne dealer. I was about 22 pounds overweight when I decided to replace a couple of meals with an Arbonne shake. I lost 16 pounds and I’m thrilled. I was NOT a junk food eater. I mostly eat salads with apples, sliced almonds, cauliflower, celery, occasionally some cheese, carrots, artichoke hearts, green and red peppers and pepperoncini’s. I only put apple cider vinegar and olive oil on it. My other meals are tuna and eggs. I sometimes eat chicken and turkey and I love vegetables. One serving a bread a day. That’s pretty much it but I still couldn’t lose weight. So when I started the shakes and replacing those meals, I lost weight. I feel great. I’m 61 years old. I am now walking up my large hill in my neighborhood and running down and doing that twice a night. If I die of cancer, I doubt it will be because of the Arbonne shakes. I think the exhaust I smell every day to work could be the cause. Or perhaps living with a smoker for 17 years who refused to smoke outside, (now divorced) or how about the water I drink. God, it smells and I don’t always buy bottled water. My dog would rather drink dirty water from outside rain than water from my tap. What does that say? Even our filtered water he won’t drink. I don’t buy all organic, so even my salads are probably bad for me. I don’t care. I was a kid who ran behind the truck that sprayed the neighborhood for mosquitoes back in the 60’s. My parents had parties and everyone smoked inside. We drank milk during the time when milk wasn’t even pasteurized and it sat in the milk box until mom brought it in from OUTSIDE. I ate captain crunch and TRIX and all of it. Twinkies were my snack before bed or OREO cookies.
Let’s not forget about the medicines we took back then. I’m still here after all that and doing great! We bought Good Humor ice cream from the ice cream truck. We went to Friendly’s ice cream parlor. We ate Mr. Softy and Carvel. I came from an Italian family and there was cheese in everything. Yummy! My dad is 90 and my mom 84 and they are super healthy. My dad still mows the lawn. I’m 61. If you are going to die, your going to die but it’s not going to be from the Arbonne shakes. Geeezzzzzzzzzzz
Well I see that my previous comment never was posted. I went ahead and bought the Garden of Life and I’m totally disappointed in it. It tastes HORRIBLE. I’m going back to Arbonne. So yeah, unbiased, whatever. My comments never were posted.
Hi Dani,
Congrats on a well researched article and proper authentic responses to all the debaters of your article. I’m also a Registered Nutritionist and am fed up with fake, self claimed ‘health coaches’ that sell pure rubbish products (arbonne and Herbalife to name a few) and bs opinions and promote it as healthy. These people are not health experts. They are simply sales and marketing puppets, that try to make a quick buck, without even knowing what the ingredients are that they’re selling to their equally naive customers. I was one of them, when I was very young and working as an untrained, unskilled PT. Until I decided that I really want to help people, completed my 3.5year health Sciences degree and became qualified. Funny thing is I work with Surgeons and Doctors and we’ve all had a good laugh together about how much $, people waste on medication, shakes and
supplements. Yet we all agree on one thing… we can’t survive let alone thrive without fresh nutrients. Please keep up in sharing your evidence based research. It’s truly enlightening for everyone.
Wow, that’s what I was searching for, what a stuff!
present here at this website, thanks admin of this web page.
Hi Dani,
I realize this post was shared over 3 years ago, but I would like to mention that the formula has been updated, including:
– Non-GMO Project Verified: The updated formula is Non-GMO Project verified, validating that it is GMO free.
– Methylated forms of vitamin B12 and folate were added: Methylated forms of vitamin B12 and folate are more activated and bioavailable, making the vitamins more readily usable by the body.
– Maltodextrin was removed and replaced with Gum Acacia: Gum Acacia (Gum Arabic) is a soluble fiber derived from the Acacia tree.
– Dietary Fiber was increased to 6 grams per serving: 5 grams of soluble fiber was added to each serving
– Sugar was decreased to 7 grams per serving
There is no corn starch in the formula, either. The food starch in the protein shake is derived from tapioca or rice.
As Anna said, hybridization is taught in graduate level classes as a genetic modification. Yes, they are accomplished in different ways, but they are both genetically modified due to intervention. What you object to is that it’s done in a lab rather than manually.
After taking the graduate level class, I feel that since there has been no ‘proven’ negative effects of GMO products, there is nothing to fear. Not one single death has resulted from eating GMOs. I’m much more afraid of additives, which does anecdotally affect my system more than anything genetically modified. Many people can eat foods with additives without an issue. And the same goes for GMOs. It’s like throwing the baby out with the bath water.
As Anna said, golden rice has the potential to save thousands of children who die every year due to lack of vitamin A. In this case would you at least agree it’s better to save a child with a GMO food than let them die?
Thanks for the review. You do refer to GOL as a better/cheaper option, but as far as heavy metals in protein powders are concerned is GOL a good option? The clean lablel project did a study on top protein powder brands and found GOL to contain high levels of mercery, arsenic, etc. Wondering if you have a review in regards to cleanest products without such heavy metals.
First of all, are you an actual Doctor of medicine and and nutrition? I’ve had Doctors promote Arbonne as a very healthy way of getting what you need naturally and a way to feel better with good results with cholesterol. blood pressure, diverticulitis, leaky gut, Irritable bowel, Chrones Disease, not to mention your skin is your largest organ and the skin products from Arbonne have less harmful chemiclas thanothers approved by the FDA, as the FDA bans 600 chemicals and Arbonne bans over 1800. So, if you want to bash a product, please do your homework, just alittle but better.
Thank You for this review Dani!! I had a friend tell me about Arbonne “greens” which sounded nice since I struggle with eating enough veggies but I had no clue who/want they were! This informative review was Very helpful!!! ?
Ps I love following you on Instagram!
Been using Arbonne shakes now for over two years as a meal replacement for breakfast and lunch in addition to the fiber supplement. Also use their fizz sticks as a replacement to the Crystal Light that I used.
You post about whey being a superior source of protein, but you take everything out of context. The shakes have 14+g of protein per serving (saw a source independent of Arbonne’s site that listed 20g per serving). If you mix with milk instead of water, it will contain even more… Cysteine is not an essential amino acid (it is a conditional amino acid) – not sure if you meant to be deliberately deceptive about that or not, however rice protein does include cysteine. The fact is that pea protein is a complete protein, although it is lacking in the amount of, as you said, methionine. You also seem unaware that cranberry protein contains all 22 amino acids, including the 9 essential. Which is what makes Arbonne’s shakes smart – they combine proteins to make-up for the deficiencies that any one poses as a stand-alone protein source. https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002222.htm
http://supplementpolice.com/cranberry-protein/
Some cons of whey protein (since you didn’t seem to post any);
The sugar found in milk (lactose) is a common allergen that can make whey indigestible for some. And while those tasty flavors make whey a yummy choice, they often (depending on the brand) come with a host of less-than-desirable artificial sweeteners and chemicals. http://greatist.com/fitness/protein-supplement-nutrition-guide
Regarding Folic Acid, there are 61 ‘micrograms’ per serving. Micrograms. There are 400micrograms in a Centrum Performance Vitamin, so again this is why I say you take things out of context. You need to include amounts to give the proper picture, which you clearly do not.
If you look at processed foods most people eat, the ingredients in those are much, much worse than what you seem to be fixated on in these specific shakes, so again, the credibility of this piece takes a hit as it lacks perspective and context.
Also, your discrediting of Quinoa seems interesting, given the positives that are found;
Quinoa is gluten-free, high in protein and one of the few plant foods that contain all nine essential amino acids. It is also high in fiber, magnesium, B-vitamins, iron, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin E and various beneficial antioxidants. https://authoritynutrition.com/11-proven-benefits-of-quinoa/
I’m sorry, but your title is extremely misleading – this review reads as extremely bias as you list negatives but ignore when it suited your narrative all of the positives.
I’m also wondering why you keep censoring my post such that it won’t appear on your comments (I’ve been trying to post this since June 2016, yet it always gets moderated to deletion). Too many facts?
i think you should become an ARBONNE consultant! 🙂
I am halfway through the 30 day weight loss plan with arbonne and have had heart palpitations, ringing ears, rash across my chest and face from these awful products. Is this normal?? I feel terrible.
No, that’s not normal at all! Please see a doctor!
I LOVED this articles. I see people complaining that it isn’t “unbiased” and I just can’t handle those people. the only reason they are so up in arms about it is because they haven’t learned those tough truths, yet here they are attempting to learn and complaining about the information… ridiculous. I have quite a few friends selling Arbonne and have always been so curious about the truth behind it. After reading countless articles, they all say about the same thing about the GMO concern and the “natural flavors” problems. thank you for daring to tell the truth!
Arbonne did immensely help my father’s cancer. It also reduced almost all of my arthritis inflammation. Also, there skin care is amazing. I went through puberty at 10. I had been to the doctors for topical treatment, proactive, acutane, birth control and the only thing to clear it all up was Arbonne’s re9 advanced line. I don’t necessarily care about your other biased opinions and research because there’s ALWAYS going to be that one person no matter what you look up on the internet; however, for you to say that the results are exaggerated is false. If doctor’s couldn’t help my acne, but Arbonne could, they must be doing something right.
Hi! This is an old post that I found while researching current Arbonne products. I am not associated with the brand, and recently was introduced to the cleanse by a good friend. I have been researching these products and am worried with what I am finding, as I bought into the 30-day advertising and am now just over a week in. I haven’t experienced any side effect so far, and actually feel pretty good, but am scared by some of the ingredient info you posted. It looks like they have updated their ingredients and have added non-GMO ‘certification’. Are you ever willing to look at a product again and respond if it looks any less risky? (I am not qualified to evaluate the ingredients, and have therefore been trying to find honest reviews. Thank you!(ps are there any protein or greens supplements that you currently take or recommend?)
With the calling the customer service conversation.
These people are just hired to answer general calls.
They don’t actually make the products and some probably aren’t even confident in explaining what Certified GMO Is.
This is one thing that I cannot stand when people make food documentaries and interrigate the customer service staff, and if they do not know the answer, or say uhm or ah… that’s it they’re lieing.
If you want to get an im depth answer speak to the people to made the formula of the product and were in the process to be able to answer you correctly not people in a call centre.
Hello,
I don’t know diddly squat about supplements, vitamins, etc, so I usually now steer clear of any of them due to my lack of knowledge as well as some of the bad effects I’ve had in the past trying them. I started the Arbonne 30 day cleanse, but after reading your blog I am left with mixed emotions as to whether I should continue because it really doesn’t seem as healthy as most consultants try to make it sound. It really bothers me to see consultants giving these shakes to their kids or drinking them when they are pregnant because I feel there are better healthy alternatives, not to mention this protein powder has added things in it that a kid doesn’t necessarily need. If your kid doesn’t like veggies, try adding them to a fruit smoothie. Anyhow, I did the Arbonne diet as a quick, easy way to lose weight because I don’t have as much time to get a lot of exercise. I have noticed a few weird things happen when I started this program, such as hypoglycemia, dizziness at times, and I do find myself more hungry at times (no surprise there); however the nice thing is I was able to give up coffee and keep myself focused to not eat crappy food.
In regards to folic acid, isn’t that something that pregnant women need extra of when they are pregnant? What is your opinion of prenatal vitamins then since I believe they have a higher dose of folic acid in them? I was never a fan of multi vitamins because I like to get all this through regular food.
I appreciate all the info. I am a product person, and the most phenomenal product I’ve been on that is so pure is a product called Puratae. It simplifies my life because it’s a super blend and 14 products in one. Tastes truly amazing and is a life changer. It’s the right way to start your day and balances blood sugar and provides everything you need. I would love to introduce you to it, and invite you to message me if you’re interested in learning more. Kathy Johnson – [email protected]
You mention whey as a high source of protein, but also that it causes digestive issues. I’ve tried a powdered protein called “Naked Whey”. Is that a good source? I’ve had no issues.
Please update this post… Arbonne is CERTIFIED GMO FREE. It’s verified by the NON-GMO PROJECT!!!
Here’s a link if you don’t believe me:
https://www.arbonne.com/discover/promise/index.shtml
I’ve been using their products for months and have amazing results, both skincare and the protein shakes.
You should really do your research and include stories of people who’ve experienced amazing results. It’s not a real review if you don’t acknowledge every point of view.
just wondering if you’ve done a recent review of arbonne if things are still the same?
I’m wondering the same thing!
Yes, I’d also like to know an updated review on Arbonne please?
I, too, am wondering this Kristi. I’m imagining Arbonne has received tons of inquiries about their corn ingredients. I want to love them, as I’m on day 2 of this 30 day plan. I noticed some ingredients upon receiving my package and is how I found this article after researching it more.
Arbonne has cleaned up it ingredients since this review. They are certified non-GMO and do not use Folic Acid (but do use Folate) or Cornstarch any longer. I am a Consultant, so I’m sure I have bias.
I really would love to see an updated review as well since they have changed their ingredients and I’m genuinely curious (always trying to improve if I can). 🙂
For those commenting that Garden of Life has better products, their protein powders were tested extremely high in toxic metals.
I agree with you on this article, except don’t diss my pea protein! Haha I have a rare genetic kidney stone that forms from cysteine and methionine! So pea protein helps me not produce an over abundance that just stays in my kidneys and forms a rare, super hard stone! But I enjoye the article!
I read your comments about Arbonne vanilla powder.. Gosh, I just had it and I am flabbergasted that it has corn starch! oh! well~
If this isnt the best, then what do you recommend ? Can you please advise, which one would you recommend that can be taken on a regular basis ? Thanks in advance ~
I personally love my own! I know I know, shameless self promotion but it’s true! https://ancestralorganics.com/collections/featured-products/products/collagen-protein-supergreens
You really should update this review. The ingredients and issues you state are no longer in the products. All of them are GMO certified and folate instead of folic acid is used for instance. It would give you more credibility if you used current information. Arbonne also now has a shake “Simply1” which is sweetened with stevia and only 1g of sugar per serving.
Thanks for this. I find it interesting they don’t list the ingredients on their site. All I wanted was to see the ingredient list. I was about to buy their products until I saw this: sugarcane, cocoa powder, natural chocolate flavor, sunflower oil, corn starch, inulin, xanthan gum, stevia leaf extract, flax seed, gum acacia, guar gum. ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!? This is NOT healthy in any way!!! Packed full of seed oils, sugar, corn gums and natural flavors!!! And it’s not organic which extra sucks. Why would anyone buy this after reading the ingredient list?!?