Protein shakes, powders and drinks were once only used by athletes and bodybuilders as a dietary supplement, but as of 2010, they are popular for providing a quick, easy source of fortified, complete nutrition for busy individuals. Carbohydrate-controlled protein drinks are appropriate for individuals with type 2 diabetes. Those with type I diabetes, who are on insulin, may have more specific dietary requirements and should check with a health care professional (doctor or registered dietitian) to see how these drinks can fit into their meal plans.
Ready-to-Drink Protein Beverages
One of the most popular bottled protein drinks marketed especially for individuals with diabetes is Glucerna by Abbott Laboratories. Glucerna protein drinks are low-calorie meal replacements or snacks that provide quick nutrition while controlling glucose levels. They are low in saturated fat and high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. They are also a good source of dietary fiber, which helps control blood glucose levels. One drink, or 8 oz., provides 200 calories, 7 g fat (0.5 g saturated and no trans fat), 27 g carbohydrates (6 g sugar), 5 g dietary fiber and 10 g protein, according to PeerTrainer. Glucerna shakes are fortified with 27 vitamins and minerals and are lactose- and gluten-free.
Protein Drink Mix
EAS Myoplex Lite is a meal replacement powder that is low enough in sugar to be appropriate for those with diabetes. One scoop of the powder provides 190 calories, 20 g protein, 25 g carbohydrates (1 g sugar) and 1.5 g fat, according to BodyBuilding for You. If you combine the powder with 10 oz. of 1-percent milk (recommended for better flavor and texture), it provides about 312 calories, 30 g protein, 39 g carbohydrate, 4 g fat and 16 g sugar (most is from natural milk sugar, or lactose).
Met-Rx powders are trans-fat free, vitamin- and mineral-fortified and free of aspartame, sugar and gluten. One packet of the original drink mix (added to cold water) provides 250 calories, 37 g protein, 22 g carbs (3 g sugar) and 2 g fat. The powders taste better when mixed with milk and offer a more complete source of nutrition as well as enough calories to replace a small meal.
Artificially Sweetened Protein Powder
EnergyFirst makes a whey-based protein powder that is sweetened with Stevia leaf instead of sugar, making it appropriate--as well as flavorful--for individuals with diabetes. It has a low-glycemic index (degree and speed at which a food raises blood glucose levels). The ingredients of the ProEnergy Ultimate Vanilla protein powder include whey protein isolate, natural flavor (natural vanilla bean), guar gum, lecithin and Stevia leaf extract. One scoop provides only 90 calories, 20 g protein, 0 g fat, 3 g carbohydrate and only 1 g sugar. If mixed with 10 oz. 1-percent milk, it provides 212 calories, 30 g protein, 2.5 g fat, 17.5 g carbohydrate and 16 g sugar (most is from natural milk sugar, or lactose).
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