Protein shakes and powdered supplemental drink mixes were once used predominantly by bodybuilders and athletes. As of 2010, these products are a popular choice for providing a source of nutrition in a quick and portable form for busy individuals. The drinks that are carbohydrate-controlled are most appropriate for those with type 2 diabetes. Those with type I diabetes are on insulin and may have not have to restrict their carbohydrate intake. Any person with diabetes should consult a qualified health-care professional prior to adding a nutritional supplement, especially one rich in calories.
EAS Myoplex Lite
EAS Myoplex Lite is a meal replacement powder that is appropriate for most individuals with diabetes, as it is low in sugar. One scoop of the powder provides 190 calories, 20g whey protein, 1.5g fat, 25g carbohydrates and only 1g sugar. BodyBuildingforYou.com recommends combining the powder with milk for best flavor and texture. One scoop of EAS Myoplex Lite combined with 10 oz. of 1-percent milk provides about 312 calories, 30g protein, 4g fat and 39g carbohydrate. Even though, when mixed with milk the drink provides 16g sugar, nearly all is from lactose, or natural milk sugar.
Resource Health Shake
Resource nutritional supplements are manufactured by Nestle and are often used in hospital and clinic settings. The Resource No Sugar Added Health Shake is higher in fat than other supplements, deriving approximately 40 percent of its calories from fat and it comes in chocolate, strawberry and vanilla flavors. The protein source is a milk whey concentrate. These drinks come in 4 and 6 fluid oz. cartons. A 6 fluid oz. serving provides 300 calories, 12g protein, 13g fat, 1g saturated fat, 33g carbohydrates, 10 gsugars, 180mg sodium and 10mg cholesterol. As a fortified beverage, this drink is an excellent source of calcium, vitamins A, C, D, the B vitamins, iron, phosphorus, magnesium and zinc. This nutritional supplement is gluten-free and kosher.
Glucerna
Though slightly lower in calories, Glucerna bottled supplement drinks, made by Abbott Laboratories, are designed for individuals with type 2 diabetes and are available nationwide in supermarkets and pharmacies. Glucerna drinks are beneficial for providing a quick source of nutrition while helping an individual to control his blood sugar levels. These drinks are low in saturated fat but slightly higher in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. They are also rich in dietary fiber, which helps to slow the release of sugar into the bloodstream, according to a position statement of the American Diabetes Association, published in January 2008 in "Diabetes Care."
Flavors include Butter Pecan, Strawberries 'n Cream, Creamy Chocolate Delight and Homemade Vanilla. One drink, or 8 fluid oz. provides 200 calories, 10g protein, 7g fat, 0.5g saturated fat, 27g carbohydrates, 6g sugars and 5g dietary fiber. Glucerna shakes are lactose- and gluten-free and are fortified with 27 vitamins and minerals, meeting, on average, 25 percent of the recommended daily value, or DV for these nutrients.
