Each phase in your diet changes throughout your weight loss journey, especially as you get near your goal weight. Maintenance is learning how to normalize your weight. It might take trial and error to discover what works for you. But your choice of foods should be healthy and balanced.  

This phase includes protein, vegetables, carbohydrates, whole grains, beans, fruit, fiber and healthy fats. You need a well balanced diet to maintain good health and to keep your weight and blood sugars under control and co-morbidities from returning.  

Liquid protein shakes are not forever. You need something to stay in your pouch longer. During the maintenance phase, (directed by your physician and nutritional counseling) your liquid protein supplements will be phased out as more real or whole foods are added to your daily diet routine.  Whole foods would be as unprocessed as possible and as close to "nature" as possible.