11 Best Meal Replacement Shakes For Diabetics (2023 Updated)

While the best meal replacement shakes are difficult enough to find, it’s often even more of a task to find suitable options for people with diabetes.

The problem is that too many of these meal replacement shakes would cause blood sugar spikes. At the same time, pure protein shakes often don’t provide a good enough energy boost for diabetics.

I have a few clients that struggled with this problem for a long time, so we decided to combine our efforts to find the best meal replacement shakes for diabetics.

#3rd Best Choice

Glucerna Shake

Ingredients

Overall Score 4.9

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Our Top Meal Replacement Shakes For Diabetics (June 2023)

1 – Instant Knockout Complete (

Editor’s Choice)

Ingredients

Overall Score 5.0

This 100% nutritionally complete meal replacement shake for people with diabetes. It has 26 essential nutrients, including calcium, iron, potassium, and vitamins A, C, D, E, and K.

The best part is its BCAA content, promoting muscle growth while reducing muscle wasting.

Instant Knockout Complete has no added sugars but is packed with calories to keep you feeling full throughout the day. This might not be idea if you want to lower your caloric intake to better digest food and get your daily value of specific nutrient options.

The best part is the fiber content ensures digestion and slow energy release.

• Calories : 400
• Protein : 35g
• Fat : 13g
• Carbs : 35g

Pros

• 26 essential nutrients for complete daily nutrition
• No added sugars for diabetics
• Vegan ingredients with Omega-3 fatty acids
• Pre-measured scoop means preparation is only within 30 seconds

Cons

• Highest calorie count among all options

2 – Ample K

Ingredients

Overall Score 4. 9

This is another meal replacement shake specifically made with diabetics in mind.

It may look like it’s quite high in carbohydrates, but the company claims they are slow releasing to help control blood sugar.

• Calories : 180
• Protein : 10g
• Fat : 9g
• Carbs : 16g

Pros

• Contains only 2 grams of sugar for less impact on bloodstream sugar
• Low carbs
• Added probiotics to help with digestion
• Available in a bulk container to save money

Cons

• Only available in chocolate and vanilla flavors

3 – Glucerna Shake

Ingredients

Overall Score 4.9

This is another meal replacement shake specifically made with diabetics in mind.

It may look like it’s quite high in carbohydrates, but the company claims they are slow releasing to help manage blood sugar, acting like insulin when digested.

• Calories : 180
• Protein : 10g
• Fat : 9g
• Carbs : 16g

Pros

• Contains only 2 grams of sugar for less impact on blood sugar
• Low carbs
• Added probiotics to help with digestion
• Available in a bulk container to save money

Cons

• Only available in chocolate and vanilla flavors

Check Current Price

4 – Atkins Gluten Free Protein-Rich Shake

Ingredients

Overall Score 4.8

Atkins supplements are generally quite popular with people trying to lose weight.

This best meal replacement shake, in particular, made our list because we heard from a lot of people that it could boost diabetic energy levels throughout the day.

• Calories : 160
• Protein : 15g
• Fat : 9g
• Carbs : 7g

Pros

• Almost zero sugar to not impact your blood glucose levels
• Decent amount of protein to make it suitable for athletes
• Gluten-free to reduce chances of stomach upset

Cons

• Might not be large enough for a breakfast replacement

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5 – Boost Glucose Control Nutritional Drink

Ingredients

Overall Score 4. 8

At first, I wasn’t sure about this best meal replacement shake, but my dietitian reviewed it and verified that the ingredients were indeed low-glycemic with slow-digesting carbohydrates.

You might also like that it doesn’t contain a lot of saturated fat.

• Calories : 190
• Protein : 16g
• Fat : 7g
• Carbs : 16g

Pros

• Low glycemic and slow-releasing carbs
• Very low in saturated fat for better heart health
• Provides a lot of vitamins and minerals to support overall well being

Cons

• May contain some artificial flavors

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6 – Garden of Life Meal Replacement

Ingredients

Overall Score 4.8

Some of my bodybuilding clients have successfully used this best meal replacement product for weight loss during a cutting phase.

It’s also deficient in fat, which should suit most diets.

• Calories : 115
• Protein : 20g
• Fat : 1.5g
• Carbs : 8g

Pros

• Suitable amount of protein for athletes
• Low net carbs to help you maintain blood sugar levels
• One of the lowest amounts of fat we could find
• Gluten-free

Cons

• More suitable as a snack replacement

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7 – Slimfast Diabetic Weight Loss

Ingredients

Overall Score 4.7

Slimfast and weight loss are synonymous, and this one has supposedly explicitly been formulated for a diabetes control healthy diet.

We liked the significant list of minerals and vitamins that may support your overall well-being.

• Calories : 100
• Protein : 2g
• Fat : 7g
• Carbs : 12g

Pros

• No added sugar to make it suitable for people with diabetes
• Contains one of the best selections of minerals and vitamins
• Mixes easily into a smooth shake

Cons

• Doesn’t contain enough protein for athletes

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8 – 310 Plant-Based Meal Replacement Shake

Ingredients

Overall Score 4. 6

While this might be quite a low-calorie option more suitable as a snack, I would highlight the decent boost of protein. It’s an important consideration if you want to take this meal replacement product as an energy source for your workouts.

It’s one of the best options if you want to get the most nutritional value for your vegetarian diet.

• Calories : 90
• Protein : 15g
• Fat : 1.5g
• Carbs : 7g

Pros

• Good blend of plant protein to provide a full range of essential amino acids
• Many positive reports about the flavor and texture
• Dairy, soy, and gluten free option

Cons

• nly available in small pouches

Check Current Price

9 – Almased Meal Replacement Shake

Ingredients

Overall Score 4.6

This product is also popular with my clients who have got to a weight management stage.

They often comment that it could work well to keep those hunger cravings at bay that otherwise result in unhealthy snacking.

• Calories : 230
• Protein : 27g
• Fat : 7g
• Carbs : 15g

Pros

• Might be the best option for a high-protein boost
• Positive comments about it making you feel full
• Claims to be easy on the stomach

Cons

• Based on only soy protein which limits branched-chain amino acids

Check Current Price

10 – Purely Inspired All-in-One Meal Meal Replacement Shake

Ingredients

Overall Score 4.5

Another solid product for its essential nutrients content is this protein shake that also provides healthy fats rather than saturated ones.

And with the fiber content, the powder may also support a better digestive system.

• Calories : 140
• Protein : 20g
• Fat : 2. 5g
• Carbs : 9g

Pros

• Low in net carbs due to a decent amount of fiber
• May provide health support from vitamins and minerals
• Positive reports that it keeps hunger at bay

Cons

• Limited flavor options could become boring

Check Current Price

11 – IDLife Meal Replacements

Ingredients

Overall Score 4.4

Our final recommended product comes from IDLife.

The carbohydrates are mainly fiber, and its 23 grams of protein could be necessary for many athletes for better recovery.

• Calories : 130
• Protein : 23g
• Fat : 2g
• Carbs : 7g

Pros

• Low in net carbs due to a decent amount of fiber
• May provide health support from vitamins and minerals
• Positive reports that it keeps hunger at bay

Cons

• Limited flavor options could become boring

Check Current Price

Buyer’s Guide

What Type Of Ingredients Do You Need To Look Out For?

The ingredient you need to look out for is the carbohydrate content, more specifically, added sugar. Unfortunately, many meal replacement shake products add sugar to give it a more appealing taste, but the consequences for your blood sugar could be terrible, even with the essential nutrients.

Consider Possible Side Effects From Ingredients

Meal replacement shakes with high carbohydrate content are likely bad, and it’s also essential to look out for indications that the carbohydrates are slow releasing.

Even with a well-planned exercise routine, this could otherwise lead to high blood sugar levels.

Also, look out for artificial sweeteners in your meal replacement shakes — they have been shown to cause issues with your gut flora [1].

To avoid these situations, consider asking your registered dietitian or nutritionist for recommendations. They likely have a few suggestions perfect for your situation since they already know what you need to avoid. It’s especially important when you have milk or pea allergies.

Pay Attention To The Glycemic Index

It may take a bit of digging, but the glycemic index of meal replacement shakes for diabetes would indicate its impact on blood sugar levels. It isn’t just imported for anyone with type 2 diabetes, but regular athletes may also want to know it.

The more blood glucose spikes you have, the faster hunger cravings may return [2].

The glycemic index gives you a way to tell slower-acting “good carbs” from the faster “bad carbs.” You can use it to fine-tune your carb-counting and help keep your blood sugar more steady.
– WebMD.com

Get Your Portion Size Right

People with type 2 diabetes have to be particularly careful with portion sizes, and that is the case for supplements and the best meal replacement shakes. A net harmful calorie diet is most likely needed if you have specific weight loss goals or take medicine.

It’s best to discuss this with registered dietitians to ensure that your weight management doesn’t cause deficiencies from a nutrition perspective. Your physician may advise you to stack on protein shakes or meal replacements depending on your health objective.

If meal replacement shakes aren’t your thing, maybe you can try out a meal replacement bar.

FAQs

What Is a Good Protein Drink For Diabetics?

A good protein drink for diabetics is one that doesn’t have high carbohydrate content. This is not just important for stable blood sugars but may help with weight loss goals as well.

To ensure that you also get the best food, you can get a great Diabetic Food Delivery Service.

Can Diabetics Drink Protein Shakes?

Yes, people with diabetes can drink protein shakes, and it’s one of the better ways to help stabilize blood sugar levels. Your body takes longer to convert protein into energy, which you could further manage through the proper timing of exercise.

Our #1 Meal Replacement

Blood sugar management and weight loss are more achievable with our diabetic clients’ predominant vote— Instant Knockout Complete.

This nutritious meal replacement shake packs a lot of nutrients, making you feel fuller. The best part is you need not worry about sudden high glucose levels.

Order your Instant Knockout Complete shake now. Let us know about your personal experience on social media.

Our #1 Recommendation

Instant Knockout Complete

Ingredients

Overall Score 5.0

Pros

• 26 essential nutrients for complete daily nutrition
• No added sugars for diabetics
• Vegan ingredients with Omega-3 fatty acids
• Pre-measured scoop means preparation is only within 30 seconds
• Get the BEST PRICE until the end of June

Cons

• Highest calorie count among all options

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About The Author

Isaac is a personal fitness trainer and nutritionist living in sunny Indianapolis, IN. He has spent the last 8 years staying at the forefront of the health and fitness industry. He has helped hundreds of people lose weight, get in shape, and maintain their healthy lifestyles through proper training and eating habits.

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Diabetic Shakes

A healthy diet is a vital part of diabetic care, as what you eat every day can have a major impact on your blood sugar levels. When you eat well, you can keep those levels better controlled and as a result lower your risk of developing complications due to diabetes. It’s not always easy to find time to eat healthy, but there are solutions available to supply you with nutrients when you’re on the go. At Walgreens, we have a selection of diabetic shakes from popular brands like Glucerna that can fit easily into any healthy eating plan for diabetes care.

Why Use Diabetic Shakes?

Often times, the foods that are easiest to purchase and consume on the go are the least healthy. Fast food is high in saturated fats and sodium, both of which experts caution against consuming too much. Snacks from vending machines may also contain excess fat and sodium as well as sugar, making them less than ideal for diabetics. Diabetic shakes are every bit as convenient as these other readily available foods, as they can be enjoyed quickly anytime, anywhere. The shakes are formulated to supply a complete array of nutrients and the calories needed to supply the body with fuel for energy. This can make them a good alternative to hitting the vending machine or the drive-thru when you’re short on time.

What Shakes Are Suitable for Diabetics?

Diabetic shakes are formulated especially for people with diabetes. As a result, they typically include a unique blend of carbohydrates and often do not contain added sugar. This helps to ensure that the shakes don’t cause a significant spike in blood glucose levels after they are consumed. In addition, most diabetic shakes are enriched with nutrients that some scientists believe may help to keep blood sugar levels in check. Many are also high in protein. Diabetic shakes are designed to help manage blood sugars as part of a healthy, balanced diet. However, the products are not meant to treat diabetes or take the place of insulin or oral medications for the disease.

Explore the Options

You have two main options to choose from when selecting diabetic shakes. If you’re looking for something that is very quick and simple to prepare, a ready-made shake is ideal. These products are already in liquid form and prepackaged into single serving bottles. Want to be able to create your own shakes by adding extra ingredients or experiment with making your shakes with a variety of consistencies? A powdered shake mix may be a good choice for you. These products can be used as the bases for do-it-yourself smoothies and often can be combined with different types of liquids to create shakes of varying thicknesses. Other things to consider when comparing shakes are the calorie counts and sugar content levels of the products. You may also choose to look for shakes that are gluten-free, lactose-free or vegan to complement your diet.

Follow a Healthy Diet

Diabetic shakes can fit nicely into a healthy diet for those with diabetes, but are not designed to be a sole source of nutrition. Your body still requires additional nutrients, and consuming a variety of nutritious foods is important for maintaining a healthy body. Always consult with your health care provider for advice regarding your individual diet. Only your doctor can advise you as to how often you should be drinking diabetic shakes and which types are right for you.

8 protein drinks for people with diabetes – Drink-Drink

Protein shakes and smoothies are at the peak of popularity today. These popular pre- and post-workout drinks can include just about any ingredient in the world, so if you’re diabetic, it’s natural to wonder how they’ll affect your blood sugar. However, there is no reason to shy away from these drinks. There are countless recipes for treating diabetes on the Internet. Here we have compiled eight of the best protein shake and smoothie recipes for people with diabetes.

Protein drinks 101

Generally, protein drinks consist of protein powder and liquid. Depending on your dietary needs, this liquid can be:

• water
• milk milk
• nut milk
• rice milk
• seed milk

Other protein supplements include:

• cottage cheese
• yogurt
• nut butters
• raw nuts

Sweeteners, fresh or frozen fruit and fresh vegetables may also be added. No food is off limits if you have diabetes. However, it’s important to limit refined carbohydrates, which are more likely to raise blood sugar levels.

Eating fat with carbohydrates can help slow digestion. This can slow down the time it takes for sugar to enter the bloodstream. Fat sources that taste great in protein drinks include:

• nut butters
• raw nuts
• hemp seeds
• linseed
• chia seeds
• avocados maybe add fiber to your protein drink. This helps slow down the absorption of sugar by the body. Oatmeal, ground flaxseed, chia seeds, and wheat bran are high in fiber and are good for protein drinks.

  Some protein drink recipes call for maple syrup or stevia. Maple syrup is high in sugar but can be enjoyed in moderation. Stevia is a non-caloric sweetener that does not raise blood sugar levels. When making shakes and smoothies, use as little sweetener as possible.

  Many pre-packaged protein shakes and smoothies contain refined sugar. It is best to make them at home, where you can control the ingredients.

  Here are eight recipes to try:

  1. Peanut Butter Jelly Protein Shake

  A regular peanut butter and jelly sandwich made with sugar-rich jelly and high-carb bread is usually off limits for people with diabetes. Now you can drink your favorite food with this thick, creamy protein shake from Dashing Dish. It provides a triple dose of protein from protein powder, peanut butter and cottage cheese. Low or no sugar jam adds just the right amount of sweetness.

  Get a prescription!

  2. French Toast Protein Shake

  French toast is often topped with powdered sugar and then drizzled with syrup, so it is not generally considered a diabetic food. That’s where this protein shake comes in, also from Dashing Dish. It gives you the decadence of French toast without the extra sugar. The main ingredients of the shake are protein powder and cottage cheese. Stevia and some maple syrup add sweetness.

  Get a prescription!

  3. Rice Protein Shake

  This shake is made with rice protein powder, an alternative to whey protein powder, and fresh or frozen fruit. It also includes nuts and flaxseed for healthy fat and fiber. The amazing ingredient in this smoothie is borage oil, which has anti-inflammatory properties.

  You should not use borage oil if you are pregnant or taking warfarin or anticonvulsants. The oil can also cause digestive problems. If you can’t use borage oil or are concerned about the side effects, you can omit it from this recipe. You will still reap the benefits of a delicious protein shake.

  Get a prescription!

  4. Cinnamon Apple Soy Shake

  Tarladalal.com’s protein shake is reminiscent of grandma’s apple pie. It’s made with fiber-rich apple cubes, a mixture of soy and dairy milk, and a pinch of cinnamon. Fresh apples are a great fruit option for those who are worried about their blood sugar levels.

  Get the recipe!

  5.

  Soy Smoothie

  If you’re lactose intolerant or a vegetarian, Diabetes Self-Management has a great smoothie option for you. It is made from protein-rich soy milk and silky tofu. Frozen strawberries, half a small banana, and almond extract add flavor. If you’ve never tried silken tofu before, now is the perfect time to introduce you to this flavor.

  Get a prescription!

  6. Chocolate smoothie with no added sugar and high protein content.

  If you’ve been feeling deprived of your favorite sweets, look no further. This ice-cold smoothie from Sugar-Free Mom will take care of your chocolate cravings. It is made from protein-rich almond milk, cottage cheese, and protein powder. The smoothie’s decadent chocolate flavor comes from unsweetened cocoa powder and liquid Stevia chocolate.

  Get the recipe!

  7. Strawberry Banana Breakfast Smoothie

  Instead of adding strawberries and bananas to a bowl of boring oatmeal, mix them with yogurt, almond milk and a little stevia. The result is a protein rich smoothie from Diabetics Rejoice! this will give you more than enough energy to last until lunch. The recipe calls for PaleoFiber Powder, but you can also substitute chia seeds or flaxseed.

  Get the recipe!

  8. Berry Protein Smoothie

  Berries are nothing short of an antioxidant superfood. They contain a type of natural sugar known as fructose. According to a 2008 study, fructose does not raise blood sugar levels as quickly as carbohydrates such as bread, pasta, and table sugar. However, it is a carbohydrate and should be eaten in moderation.

  This DaVita protein rich smoothie features whey protein powder and frozen blueberries, raspberries, strawberries and blackberries as the main ingredients. A liquid flavor enhancer is also added. The recipe calls for ½ cup of whipped cream, but you can omit it to reduce the overall sugar content.

  Get the recipe!

  Nutrition for diabetes | OneTouch®

  Understanding how food affects blood sugar levels

  ¹

  Food has a direct effect on blood glucose levels. Some foods raise blood glucose levels more than others. Successful diabetes management requires knowing what foods and how much you can eat and following a meal plan that fits your lifestyle and helps control your blood glucose levels. Foods contain 3 main types of nutrients: carbohydrates, proteins and fats.

  Carbohydrates

  Carbohydrates are the starches, sugars, and fiber found in foods such as grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and sweets. They raise blood glucose levels more quickly and more than other nutrients found in food – proteins and fats. Knowing which foods have carbs and how many carbs are in a food is helpful in keeping your blood glucose levels under control. Carbohydrates from sources such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains (rich in fiber) are preferred over carbohydrates from sources with added sugars, fat, and salt.

  Protein

  Protein is an essential part of a balanced diet and keeps you from feeling hungry. Unlike carbohydrates, they do not raise blood glucose levels. However, in order to avoid gaining excess weight, it is necessary to control the size of portions of foods containing proteins. In people with type 2 diabetes, protein makes insulin work faster, so don’t try to deal with low blood glucose levels with protein shakes and formulas. Using 15 grams of fast-acting glucose-containing carbohydrates, such as juice, other sugar-sweetened drinks, glucose gel, or tablets, is the preferred way to treat low blood sugar.

  Fats

  Fats are an essential part of a balanced diet. Fats found in oily fish, nuts and seeds are especially useful. They do not raise blood glucose levels, but they are high in calories and may cause weight gain.

  Strive to include all 3 nutrients in your meals to balance your diet.

  Healthy Eating Choices

  Your dietitian or diabetes consultant can help you develop a meal plan that is right for you and fits into your lifestyle.

  Some tips for healthy eating:

  Healthy eating for a person with diabetes is healthy eating for the whole family.

  • Enjoy food by eating regularly healthy meals with appropriate portion sizes. Your doctor can help you learn how to choose healthy foods and proper portion sizes.
  • Eat a variety of nutrient-dense foods at every meal, including healthy fats, lean meats or proteins, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products in appropriate amounts.
  • Choose fiber-rich foods as often as possible, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains (bran, wholemeal pasta, brown rice).
  • Try replacing the meat with lentils, beans, or tofu.
  • Drink low-calorie drinks such as tea or coffee without sugar and water.
  • Add sweeteners to your diet.
  • Choose foods with lower salt content.

  Portion size visualization is in your hands

  Choose food and quantity according to your blood glucose level. If you eat more than you need, your blood glucose levels will rise. Knowing how to properly size portions is essential to successful diabetes management. Fortunately, the tool for this is always at your fingertips – these are your palms.

  The Canadian Diabetes Association ² recommends the following serving sizes:

  How to Choose Healthy Foods

  before you go shopping:

  • Plan your meals for a certain period of time (for example, from a few days to a week) and include a variety of foods containing all kinds of nutrients in your diet.
  • Make a grocery list based on your meal plan.

  Shop:

  • Take a list with you and stick to it.
  • Do not go shopping when you are hungry, as this often leads to less healthy food choices.
  • Choose products around the perimeter (outer edges) of the store. For example, in those sections where “real food” is sold, and not canned.
  • Do not buy sugary drinks, candy or chips.
  • Check food labels to make the right choice.

  Refs:

  ¹ American Diabetes Association.