I think the shakes are ok too. I use them as meal replacements for breakfast a couple times a month. If I liked them more than I do, I'd probably have them more frequently.

I have to say that this is a YMMV (your mileage may vary) kind of thing. Some folks are really into doing "pure" Atkins wth only whole foods, and others find the shakes (and bars and sf candies) to be helpful. The only way to find out how they affect you is to try them.

My guess about the reason they are so frequently discouraged, is that some new folks use them alot, don't follow the full plan and then can't figure out why it's not working for them and it's an easy thing to cut out to see if that improves your results.

IMO - You have to do what works for you. If shakes work and you still lose, great!