8 Protein Shakes and Smoothies for Diabetics

Protein shakes and smoothies are all the rage these days. These popular pre- and post-workout drinks can include almost any ingredient under the sun, so if you have diabetes, it’s natural to wonder how they’ll affect your blood sugar. That said, there’s no reason to shy away from these drinks. There are countless diabetes-friendly recipes available online. Here, we round up our top eight protein shake and smoothie recipes for people with diabetes.

In general, protein drinks are made from protein powder and a liquid. Depending on your dietary needs, this liquid may be:

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

Other protein add-ins include:

• cottage cheese
• yogurt
• nut butters
• raw nuts

Sweeteners, fresh or frozen fruit, and fresh vegetables may also be added. No one food is off-limits if you have diabetes. Still, it’s important to limit refined carbohydrates that are more likely to spike your blood sugar.

Eating fat with carbohydrates may help slow digestion. This can slow down the length of time it takes sugar to hit your bloodstream. Sources of fat that taste great in protein drinks include:

• nut butters
• raw nuts
• hemp seeds
• flaxseeds
• chia seeds
• avocados

If possible, add fiber to your protein drink. It helps slow your body’s absorption of sugar. Oatmeal, ground flaxseed, chia seeds, and wheat bran are high in fiber and are protein-drink friendly.

Some protein drink recipes call for maple syrup or Stevia. Maple syrup is high in sugar, but can be enjoyed sparingly. Stevia is a non-nutritive, no-calorie sweetener that won’t raise your blood sugar. When making shakes and smoothies, use the least amount of sweetener possible.

Many pre-made protein shakes and smoothies are loaded with refined sugar. Your best bet is to make them at home where you can control the ingredients.

Here are eight recipes to try:

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 comfort food with this thick and creamy protein shake from Dashing Dish. It provides a triple-dose of protein from protein powder, peanut butter, and cottage cheese. Low-sugar or no-sugar jam adds just the right amount of sweetness.

Get the recipe!

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

Get the recipe!

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

You shouldn’t use borage oil if you’re pregnant or if you take warfarin or seizure medications. The oil may also cause digestive problems. If you can’t use borage oil or if you’re concerned about the side effects, you can omit it from this recipe. You’ll still reap the benefits of a tasty protein shake.

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This protein shake from Tarladalal.com is reminiscent of Grandma’s apple pie. It’s made from fiber-rich apple cubes, a combination of soy and dairy milks, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Fresh apples are a great fruit option for anyone concerned about their blood sugar levels.

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

Get the recipe!

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

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Instead of adding strawberries and bananas to a bowl of boring oatmeal, blend them with yogurt, almond milk, and a little Stevia. The result is a protein-rich smoothie from Diabetics Rejoice! that 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 meal.

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Berries are nothing short of antioxidant superfoods. They contain a type of natural sugar known as fructose. According to a 2008 study, fructose doesn’t raise blood sugar levels as quickly as carbohydrates like bread, pasta, and table sugar do. Even so, it’s a carbohydrate and should be eaten in moderation.

The main ingredients in this slushy protein smoothie by DaVita are whey protein powder and frozen blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries. Liquid flavor enhancer is also added. The recipe calls for ½ cup of whipped cream topping, but you may eliminate this to reduce the overall sugar content.

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Best Protein Powders for Diabetics

by Oscar Chimenti, Last Modified: May 3, 2023
This post may contain affiliate or sponsored links. See the Disclosure Policy linked in my footer.

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When it comes to managing diabetes, a balanced and nutritious diet is key. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best protein powders for diabetics, taking into consideration factors such as taste, carbohydrate content, sugar content, and protein quality.

Whether you’re looking for a whey protein isolate, a plant-based protein powder, or a protein powder with added vitamins and minerals, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!

You might also be interested in the Best Protein Bars for Diabetes.

Jump To:

• About protein powders for diabetics
• We will have a look at these 10 protein powders
• 10 best protein powders for diabetics
• Low carb snack recipes you might enjoy
• Why using protein powders for diabetes is a good choice
• Keep an eye out for these ingredients
• Variations of protein powders
• What else can diabetics use protein powders for?
• Frequently asked questions
• Conclusion

Protein powders can be a great way to supplement your diet with the nutrients needed to maintain a healthy lifestyle, while also helping to manage blood sugar levels. However, with so many protein powder options available, it can be difficult to find one that is suitable for those with diabetes.

About protein powders for diabetics

Some popular protein powders for diabetics include plant-based protein powders such as pea protein, hemp protein, and brown rice protein. These protein powders are often low in carbohydrates and have a low glycemic index, which can help regulate blood sugar levels.

Whey protein isolate is also a popular choice, as it contains little to no lactose and is high in protein with minimal carbohydrates.

Other factors to consider when choosing a protein powder for diabetics include the amount of essential amino acids present, as well as any added sugars or artificial sweeteners.

Consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian can also help determine the best protein powder option for individual dietary needs and medical conditions.

We will have a look at these 10 protein powders

1. Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder
2. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder
3. Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder
4. Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
5. Sunwarrior Classic Protein Powder
6. NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate
7. Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein Powder
8. NOW Sports Organic Pea Protein Powder
9. Isopure Unflavored Whey Protein Powder
10. Klean Athlete Klean Isolate

10 best protein powders for diabetics

Protein powders have become a popular way to increase daily protein intake and meet fitness goals.

For people with diabetes, finding the right protein powder can be challenging as it is essential to maintain blood sugar levels. In this article, we will look at the ten best protein powders for diabetics.

Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate: This whey protein isolate powder contains 28 grams of protein per serving, with only 120 calories, 2 grams of carbs, 1 gram of fiber, and 1 gram of sugar. It is made with grass-fed whey protein isolate, which is free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors. It also contains essential amino acids and is low in lactose, making it a great option for those with lactose intolerance.

One of the biggest advantages of transparent whey protein is its purity. It’s a high-quality protein that’s made by removing most of the fat and lactose from whey, which is a byproduct of cheese production. This means that you’re getting a protein powder that’s almost entirely protein, with little to no added filler ingredients.

Another benefit of transparent whey protein is that it’s easily digested and absorbed by your body. Since it’s a pure protein source, it’s broken down quickly and efficiently in your digestive system, allowing your body to use the amino acids to repair and build muscle tissue. This makes it an ideal post-workout supplement, as your body needs protein to recover after exercise.

Taste: clean and mild, with no aftertaste or artificial flavors. Some flavors have a stronger taste than others.

Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder: This plant based protein powder contains 21 grams of protein per serving, with only 150 calories, 4 grams of carbs, 5 grams of fiber, and 0 grams of sugar. It is made with organic pea protein, brown rice protein, and chia seeds, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. It also contains essential amino acids and is free from gluten, soy, and dairy. Orgain Organic protein powder is a great organic vegan protein powder.

Taste: taste as smooth, creamy, and not too sweet, with a slightly nutty flavor. Some flavors have a stronger taste than others.

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder: One of the best whey protein powders and contains 24 grams of protein per serving, with 120 calories, 3 grams of carbs, 1 gram of fiber, and 1 gram of sugar. It is made with whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate, providing a complete amino acid profile. It is also low in fat and sugar, making it a great option for those with diabetes.

Taste: delicious and easy to mix, with a creamy texture. Some flavors can be too sweet for some.

Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder: This collagen protein powder contains 20 grams of protein per serving, with only 70 calories, 0 grams of carbs, 0 grams of fiber, and 0 grams of sugar. It is made with grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine hide collagen peptides, which can help support joint health, skin health, and gut health. It is also flavorless and easy to mix into any beverage or recipe.

Taste: unflavored and tasteless, making it easy to mix into drinks and foods without affecting the flavor.

Sunwarrior Classic Protein Powder: This plant-based protein powder contains 18 grams of protein per serving, with only 100 calories, 2 grams of carbs, 0 grams of fiber, and 0 grams of sugar. It is made with a blend of pea protein, brown rice protein, quinoa protein, and amaranth protein, providing a complete amino acid profile. It is also organic, non-GMO, and free from gluten, soy, and dairy.

Taste: earthy, with a slight grainy texture. Some flavors can be too sweet or have an artificial taste.

NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate: This whey protein isolate powder contains 25 grams of protein per serving, with only 120 calories, 1 gram of carbs, 0 grams of fiber, and 0 grams of sugar. It is made with microfiltered whey protein isolate, providing a high-quality source of protein. It is also free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Taste: smooth and creamy, with a pleasant and not overpowering flavor. Some flavors have a stronger taste than others.

Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein Powder: This plant-based protein powder contains 22 grams of protein per serving, with only 110 calories, 3 grams of carbs, 2 grams of fiber, and 0 grams of sugar. It is made with a blend of organic pea protein, sprouted brown rice protein, organic chia seed, and organic flaxseed, providing a complete amino acid profile. It is also organic, non-GMO, and free from gluten, soy, and dairy.

Taste: taste as earthy and slightly gritty, with some flavors being sweeter than others. Some customers mix it with fruits and veggies for a better taste.

NOW Sports Organic Pea Protein Powder: This plant-based protein powder contains 24 grams of protein per serving, with only 120 calories, 1 gram of carbs, 1 gram of fiber, and 0 grams of sugar. It is made with organic pea protein isolate, which is highly digestible and free from allergens. It is also organic, non-GMO, and free from gluten, soy, and dairy.

Taste: earthy and slightly chalky, with some flavors being sweeter than others. Some customers mix it with fruits and veggies for a better taste.

Isopure Unflavored Whey Protein Powder: a pure sugar free protein powder supplement that provides 25 grams of high-quality whey protein isolate per serving. This protein source is fast-absorbing and easily digestible, which makes it an ideal choice for people who want to promote muscle recovery and growth after a workout or maintain their muscle mass while dieting.

The protein powder contains zero grams of carbs and fat, and only 100 calories, making it a low-calorie, low-carb, and low-fat option for people who want to add more protein to their diet without adding any additional macronutrients.

The lack of carbohydrates and fats in the powder also makes it an excellent choice for people who are following a ketogenic or low-carbohydrate diet.

Taste: unflavored and tasteless, making it easy to mix into drinks and foods without affecting the flavor

Klean Athlete Klean Isolate: Klean Athlete Klean Isolate is a high-quality protein powder that is made from whey isolate. It contains 20 grams of protein, 90 calories, and 0 grams of carbs per serving. It is also free from artificial sweeteners and has a low glycemic index, making it suitable for people with diabetes.

These are just a few of the most popular protein powders for diabetics, but there are many more options available. When choosing a protein powder, be sure to consider your individual nutritional needs and consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for you.

Overall, these 10 protein powders are some of the best options for diabetics who are looking to maintain healthy blood sugar levels while still meeting their daily protein needs.

Taste: taste is smooth and not too sweet, with a mild flavor. Some flavors have a stronger taste than others.

Low carb snack recipes you might enjoy

• Keto Pecan Pralines
• Sweet and Salty Seed and Nut Mix
• Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Chips
• Cinnamon Toast Crunch Crackers
• Sugar Free Fruity Crispy Treats

Why using protein powders for diabetes is a good choice

Protein powders can be a great option for people with diabetes for a few reasons.

First, they are a convenient and easy way to add more protein to your diet, which is important for maintaining muscle mass and overall health.

Second, many protein powders are low in carbohydrates and sugar, which can help regulate blood sugar levels.

Finally, protein powders come in a variety of options including whey, plant-based, and low-carb options, so there is something for everyone’s dietary needs and preferences.

Incorporating protein powders into your diet can be a simple and effective way to support diabetic patients and your health as a person.

Keep an eye out for these ingredients

When looking for protein powders as a diabetic, it’s important to pay attention to the ingredients listed on the label.

Some ingredients to look out for include added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and high-carbohydrate fillers like maltodextrin or dextrose.

These can spike blood sugar levels and potentially undo any progress made through proper diet and exercise.

It’s also important to be aware of any potential allergens or intolerances you may have, such as dairy or soy, as some protein powders may contain these ingredients.

It’s best to opt for protein powders that are transparent with their ingredient list and have minimal additives or artificial flavors.

Variations of protein powders

There are several variations of diabetic protein powders available in the market.

One popular type is whey protein isolate, which is a high-quality protein source that is low in carbs and fat. This type of protein powder is ideal for those who want to increase their protein intake without raising their blood sugar levels.

Another popular variation is plant-based protein powder, which is derived from sources such as pea, soy, and rice. These powders are ideal for those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet and are also low in carbs and fat.

Additionally, some protein powders may have a low glycemic index, which means they are less likely to cause spikes in blood sugar levels.

It is important for individuals with diabetes to choose protein powders that are low in carbs and sugar, and also consult with their healthcare provider before incorporating any new supplement into their diet.

What else can diabetics use protein powders for?

As a diabetic, protein powders can be a useful addition to your diet for more than just boosting your protein intake. Protein powders can also help regulate blood sugar levels and provide essential nutrients to support overall health.

In addition to using protein powders as a meal replacement in a protein shake or post-workout recovery drink, you can also add them to smoothies, oatmeal, or baked goods to increase the protein content of your meals and snacks. This can help to slow the digestion of carbohydrates and prevent blood sugar spikes.

Protein shakes can also be a convenient option when you need a quick and easy snack on the go. Simply mix the powder with water or almond milk for a low-carb, high-protein snack that can help regulate your blood sugar levels and keep you feeling full for longer.

Overall, protein powders can be a versatile and beneficial addition to your diet as a diabetic.

Frequently asked questions

Can diabetics use protein powders?

Yes, diabetics can use protein powders, but they should choose carefully and consult with a healthcare professional before adding them to their diet.

What type of protein powder is best for diabetics?

Whey protein isolate, casein protein, and plant-based protein powders such as pea protein, soy protein, and hemp protein are good choices for diabetics.

How much protein powder should a diabetic consume?

It depends on individual needs and goals. Generally, a diabetic should consume around 1 gram of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.

Can protein powder cause blood sugar spikes?

Yes, some protein powders may contain added sugars and carbohydrates that can cause blood sugar spikes. Diabetics should choose protein powders with low carbohydrate and sugar content.

Should diabetics avoid flavored protein powders?

Not necessarily. Diabetics should choose flavored protein powders that are low in sugar and carbohydrates. Reading the nutrition label and consulting with a healthcare professional can help diabetics make informed choices.

Are there any risks or side effects of using protein powder for diabetics?

In some cases, excessive protein intake can lead to kidney damage or gastrointestinal issues. Diabetics should consult with a healthcare professional before adding protein powder to their diet and should not exceed the recommended daily intake.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many excellent protein powders available for diabetics that can help meet their nutritional needs while managing blood sugar levels.

The best options include those that are low in sugar, carbs, and calories, and high in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.

The choice of protein powder ultimately depends on individual needs and preferences, but by selecting one of the top 10 options listed above, diabetics can be sure that they are making a healthy and beneficial choice for their bodies.

Remember to always consult with a healthcare professional before making any dietary changes, including adding protein powders to your diet.

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Is it possible to have protein in diabetes: dosage of a cocktail

Contents

• 1 What is protein?
• 2 Can I eat protein if I have diabetes?
• 3 Dosage for Diabetes
• 4 Protein Shakes

Diabetics are often interested in how much protein is allowed for high glucose levels. Proteins are a substance useful in diabetes mellitus, which strengthens bones and has a beneficial effect on all systems. But its reception must be controlled. Athletes should pay special attention to protein shakes.

What is protein?

Proteins, also known as proteins, are biocompounds containing nitrogen. Proteins enter the human body along with products of animal and plant origin. A sufficient amount of this substance is found in meat and fish, dairy products, cheese, cottage cheese, eggs, poultry meat, sausages. Protein is also found in bread, legumes (soybeans, beans), cereals. A sufficient amount of protein ensures a strong nervous system and the proper functioning of other systems, strengthens bones and contributes to the rapid and healthy development of the body. Especially important is the presence of proteins in the diet of children and adolescents, as well as those involved in sports. In diabetics, the amount of proteins in the body is reduced.

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Is it possible to consume protein in diabetes?

The use of protein in diabetes is acceptable. However, before including this or that product in the menu, it is necessary to consult with your doctor and regularly monitor your health by taking blood tests. Diabetic athletes who independently adhere to a protein diet claim that there was no negative effect on their body – only an increase in muscle mass was observed. In type 2 diabetes, it is forbidden to take protein at the same time as drinking alcohol, smoking, drinking coffee and heavy meals.

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Dosage for diabetes

People with high blood sugar can add legumes to their diet.

The body of a diabetic quickly loses protein, but you should not exceed the norm for the use of this substance. The norm for people with diabetes is 1.1-1.3 grams per kilogram of body weight. The dose for athletes is slightly higher – 1.5-1.8 grams per kilogram of body weight. A similar amount of protein is also necessary for children and adolescents. The highest protein content is found in animal products (chicken, eggs, fish). People with high sugar can safely introduce legumes and grains, nuts and fruits into their diet.

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Protein shakes

A protein shake may appear on the patient’s menu in the following cases:

• when the attending physician approves the composition of the protein drink;
• protein shakes contain a moderate amount of sugar, which is monitored by the patient.

The drink may not contain fruits prohibited for diabetics, such as bananas.

Cocktail consumption is affected by:

• patient’s age;
• drugs he takes;
• test scores;
• beverage composition;
• number of drinks the patient drinks per week.

The composition of the cocktail affects the doctor’s decision on the appropriateness of its use in high blood sugar.

For a diabetic patient, a protein shake is generally undesirable – it contains a dangerous amount of sugar and carbohydrates. Therefore, before use, be sure to consult a doctor. For athletes, it is better to consume proteins naturally through food. Some protein shakes indicate that their use is allowed or prohibited for people with high sugar.

8 Protein shakes and shakes for diabetics

Nowadays proteins and protein shakes. These popular pre- and post-workout drinks can include just about any ingredient under the sun, 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 diabetes-friendly recipes available online. Here we wrap up our top eight protein shakes and shakes for people with diabetes.

Soft drinks 101

In general, protein drinks are made from protein powder and liquid. Depending on your dietary needs, this liquid can be:

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

Other protein add-ons include: cottage cheese

• yogurt
• nut butters
• raw nuts

Sweeteners, fresh or frozen fruits and fresh vegetables may also be added. If you have diabetes, no food is forbidden. However, it’s important to limit refined carbs, which are more likely to spike your blood sugar.

Eating fat with carbohydrates can help slow digestion. This can slow down the time it takes for sugar to hit your bloodstream. Sources of fats that taste great in protein drinks include:

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nut butters

• raw nuts
• hemp seeds
• linseeds
• chia seeds
• avocado
• If possible, add fiber to your protein drink. This helps slow your body’s absorption of sugar. Oatmeal, ground flaxseed, chia seeds and wheat bran are high in fiber and are protein friendly.

Some protein drink recipes call for maple syrup or stevia. Maple syrup is high in sugar but can be used sparingly. Stevia is a non-nutritive, non-caloric sweetener that will not raise blood sugar levels. Use the minimum amount of sweetener when preparing cocktails and smoothies.

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Many pre-made protein shakes and smoothies are loaded with refined sugar. It is best to make them at home where you can control the ingredients.

Here are eight recipes:

1. Peanut Butter and Protein Jelly

Regular Butter with Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich, made with sugar-rich jelly and high-calorie bread, is usually forbidden for people with diabetes. Now you can sip on your favorite comfort food with this thick and creamy protein shake from Dashing Dish. It provides a triple dose of protein from protein powder, peanut butter and cottage cheese. Low sugar or no sugar 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 soaked in syrup, so it’s not usually considered nutritious for diabetes. That’s where this protein shake, also from Dashing Dish, comes in. It gives you the decadence of French toast without the extra sugars. The main ingredients of the shake are protein powder and cottage cheese. Stevia and a touch of maple syrup provide sweetness.

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Get the recipe!

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 flaxseeds 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 are having seizures. The oil can also cause digestive problems. If you cannot use borac oil, or if you are concerned about side effects, you can omit it from this recipe. You’ll still enjoy the benefits of delicious protein.

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4. Apple Cinnamon Soy Shake

This protein shake is from Tarlalalal. com reminds me of grandma’s apple pie. It’s made from fiber-rich apple cubes, a combination of soy and dairy milk, and a sprinkling of cinnamon. Fresh apples are a great option for anyone concerned about blood sugar levels.

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Get the recipe!

5. Soy Good Shake

If you’re lactose intolerant or a vegetarian, self-diagnosis of diabetes is a great smoothing option for you. It’s made with protein-rich soy milk and silken tofu. Frozen strawberries, half a small banana and almond extract add flavor. If you’ve never tried silken tofu before, this is the perfect time to present the taste to your palate.

Get a prescription!

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6. High Protein, Sugar Free Chocolate Shake

If you’re feeling deprived of your favorite sweet treats, look no further. This ice-cold sugar-free mum takes care of your chocolate cravings. It is made from protein-rich almond milk, cottage cheese, and protein powder. The decadent chocolate flavor of the cocktail comes from unsweetened cocoa powder and liquid Stevia chocolate.

Get the recipe!

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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.