To put it simply, the best protein drinks for diabetics are one of the only ways to meet your protein goals. Are you a diabetic person looking for something that makes you strong and healthy? Even if you are not, no one in this world likes to stay in a fragile condition. But a diabetic person’s condition is a little different from the rest of us.
Many conditions apply in their food regime as well as their daily routine. They also need to face certain limitations in their food diet. It is not their favorite choice, but nothing is an option when it comes to your health. A diabetic person needs to maintain a certain level in their body. For instance, they cannot consume more sugar than recommended. If they do so, they have to face serious consequences.
Just like that, when it comes to protein drinks, they must see whether or not that particular supplement consists of their allowed food elements in the exact amount advised to them. We, as ordinary people, get many protein shakes and supplements in the market. But what about diabetes?
The thought crossed our minds, and we conducted in-depth research to make the 12 Best Protein Drinks available for diabetics. After all, it’s everybody’s right to stay healthy and sound. If a diabetic person wants to gain some muscles even in their condition, what’s the harm in that?
So, let us get started with the basics first!
How Much Protein is Safe for Diabetes?
There is not a particular amount set for non-diabetic people. Their body also usually functions, so they need the same amount of nutrients and proteins in their daily diet. But if the protein intake is balanced, it can help keep the sugar level in management because it could balance and maintain the carbohydrate intake.
So, according to those numbers, around 80g-120g of protein consumption falls under the green zone for a diabetic person. However, to know the exact status and dietary plan, we recommend you consult a dietician. A dietician can help you prepare a proper diet plan that you can adopt in your daily routine.
Is Protein Powder safe in diabetes?
If you are a diabetic person who struggles to consume enough protein in their food, then a protein powder supplement might be the right choice you could go for. Also, as diabetic people cannot take part in intense workout sessions, they should adopt additional support like protein powder supplements in their diet. However, if you are planning to consume protein as an excuse to get enough protein in the place of food, then you should first.
The first and foremost source of protein should always be a healthy diet. While there are situations when protein powder can help you fulfill your protein intake, you should not give protein drinks the place of a healthy diet in your life. So, these additional supplements should always come after a sound diet, no matter which boat you are on.
Best Protein Powders for Diabetes
1. Future Kind Organic Vegan Protein Powder
If you are lactose-intolerant, then you would love this vanilla-flavored protein drink from a future kind! The ingredients present in the drink are derived from 100% organic non-GMO yellow peas, which are entirely safe for a diabetic person to consume. This drink tastes wholly natural and not like the other artificial vanilla-flavored ones. So, if you are an eager fan of vanilla, you might find this drink a little bland.
According to the label, it has as little as 1 gram of carbohydrates and no added sugars. Organic Stevia is actually used as an artificial sweeteners. It contains 20 grams of clean plant-based protein. You get a Delicious vanilla flavor in it and no artificial flavors. So for the people who love want variety in flavors, they might find themselves disappointed. Yet, this Protein powder has gained massive appreciation because of its natural taste. And what would attract many nature lovers is the fact that the package is made of recycled materials.
Future Kind Organic Vegan Protein Powder
2. Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder
One of the reasons that make Transparent Labs products better than anything else is that they comprise 100% natural protein and nothing else than that. But the product does have 1gm Carbs in each glass, which is entirely tolerable. Also it’s completely made from dairy products of 100% grass-fed. In this powder you get 29 grams of protein per scoop. Its formula has minimal lactose, fast and cholesterol.
This powder also comes in mouth-watering flavor options which are naturally sweetened with stevia. It contains no sugars or artificial sweeteners and a lot of online reviews highlight that the flavors are Natural and Tasty. The whey protein powder is the only whey protein powder that you can mix with your meals or snacks. This makes it easy to take a small amount of protein for a quick boost of energy in the morning or before cooking, or as a convenient snack after training.
Transparent Labs Whey Protein Powder
3. Plant Protein Powder by Ladder
If you are not a whey fan, the next possible option for you is plant-based protein drinks. Without a doubt, Ladder offers an excellent alternative to people who like to steer clear of whey-based protein drinks. The ingredient list comprises essential amino acids, so you do not worry about added artificial sweeteners. It is a plant-based protein powder which provides you with higher dose of essential amino acids and also branched-chain amino acids which are just enough for your body to fully repair it after you have an intense workout.
This powder will also give you an improvement in your muscle growth and also assist you in your weight loss as well. Along with this protein powder is also certified by the NSF and contains higher dosage of EAAs and BAAs. The powder being completely plant based makes it easier for the people with diabetics to digest it. Well you get various flavors to choose from and as it is easily digestible, it makes absorption more easier.
4. Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Protein Powder
For the vegans out there, transparent labs have created this 100% vegan formula in which they have not included even dairy source. They have created this powder based on rice and pea protein. This powder is not only free from any milk or other artificial sweeteners, but it is also a non-GMO and is gluten free. It contains 24 grams of pea and rice protein along with a broad range of essential amino acids.
As like the others on the list, this one is also free from Gluten and parabens. Also you could experience that you can easily mix chocolate and vanilla flavors. If you are lactose intolerant, there are certain conditions you have to apply to your daily diet. The best possible option for all the vegans out there is this vegan protein powder by Transparent Labs. This option is gluten-free, dairy-free, and free from any other possible animal ingredients.
Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Protein Powder
5. Garden Of Life Protein Powder
If you hunt for a protein supplement that can also help you with your troubled metabolism, then this pick from Garden of Life is the best bet you can deal your money on. It comprises a full range of amino acids without any added artificial sweeteners and other animal-based ingredients. The brand as whole has focused on creating a natural blend of digestive-supporting ingredients and protein.
The protein powder of this brand is rich in all essential amino acids and features a diversity of plant proteins and vegetables. No sugars are like added to this powder which helps in avoiding blood glucose spikes. Also it is a great source of vitamin which also does improve your immunity. With this protein powder, you also get pro-biotics and enzymes which does support effective digestion.
Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein
$35.69
6. Slim Fast Protein Shake
As the name suggests, Slim-Fast is the option you choose when looking for a protein powder to lose weight. These protein shakes are generally low in sugar, carbs, and added fibers. It comes in two flavors, i.e., chocolate and vanilla, so that you can choose one option according to your choice. You can mix both these flavors and then you can also replace them as meal replacement shakes. And for this quality it has got many positive reviews about working as a light meal replacement. This protein powder is also a good source of vitamins and minerals and has a low fat content which would support most of the diets.
- Good source of vitamins and minerals
- Low-fat content supports most diets
SlimFast Advanced Nutrition High Protein
7. Orgain Organic Protein Powder
One of the renowned brands in the protein powder list, Orgain, is the pick you can 100% trust. This pic is for those who actually want an organic composition of a protein powder. It seems to be a very effective way to get your protein needs met with very few calories as it contains peanut butter and a blend of peas, brown rice and chia seeds. You get a minimum amount of 160 calories of carbs per serving which is just good for diabetic people and also fitness freaks.
It is actually a blend of proteins which are derived from brown rice, peas, hemp and Cia seeds, Organic flavors, Potassium chloride, Sea salt, Guar gum, Organic stevia, Xanthine gum, Organic acacia gum. Also, it’s free from any possible artificial sweeteners. It does not contain any artificial ingredients and is free from gluten and soy. It is also low on carbs and is kosher and carrrageen free which makes it good for immunity as well. Well in short, this can be a fantastic formula to add on into your diet.
8. Nestle Resource Diabetic Food
When it comes to diabetic resource food, the first brand that Indians trust is Nestle. This product is actually a resourced diabetic which has a low GI formula. It is intended to make dietary management of an individual with diabetes. Well the resource diabetic is actually a source of protein and fiber and does provide up-to 20 different minerals and vitamins to the body.
In this product you get 22 gm of protein per 100 grams. Its fiber content is as high as insulin. This option is available in delicious vanilla flavor, which you will fall in love with! You need to mix the powder in some pre-boiled water to prepare the drink, and you are all set!
Nestle Resource Diabetic Food
9. Bob’s Red Mill Whey Protein Powder, unflavored
This one is an unflavored and unsweetened option that you can pick if simplicity is your choice! This protein powder is a high quality one which would deliver you the essential amino acids which your body needs. These essential amino acids actually would help you to regain strength and also aid in muscle development. Also one can use this as a protein shake where you would not have to even add any excessive carbohydrates and fats.
And for the people with diabetes, a good news! This product actually dissolves very easily so you don’t have to worry about digestion. You can definitely go ahead with this pick as you can make protein shakes and smoothies from it. There are no artificial ingredients present in the list, so you are safe to go with the product even if you are not a fan of extraordinary taste.
Bob's Red Mill Whey Protein Powder
$16.86
10. Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein & Greens
This pick also comes in multiple options, including unflavored, chocolate, and vanilla. Other than this, it also offers an excellent source of plant-based protein and green. Garden Life Protein Powder is actually a plant-based protein powder which is specially formulated to help you in your muscle recovery after you have an intense workout.
This protein powder can just be the right addition to make in your daily routine which has 22 grams of protein and no sugar. It only contains 100 calories and you can have it in the morning at the start of your day or even after your evening workout. Its formula is infused with plea, rice and soy protein isolates and also other plant-based ingredients. Along with this it also has essential fatty acids which would really fuel in your body and increase your muscle mass as well. You can go and select the desired pick according to your choice. Garden of Life is a renowned and trusted brand in the healthcare industry.
Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein & Greens
11. Celevida Diabetes and Weight Management Nutrition Health Drink
This pick makes a special mention in your list as it is a scientifically formulated health drink and also a nutrition supplement which is specially for people with diabetes. It is made by Dr. Reddy’s which itself is a big brand and does manage patients with diabetes and the aim behind this product was also to provide excellent weight management. Well it is specially formulated to regulate your blood glucose levels. You get three flavors in this viz chocolate, green mango and Kesarelaichi. This product can really work wonders if you’re someone who is suffering from high blood sugar levels. It has no sugar but it’s filled with the goodness of protein and fiber.
If you want something to balance your protein intake and weight simultaneously, then Celevida Diabetes is the option you must pick. This sugar-free drink is rich in protein and fiber so that you will feel energetic throughout the day! The drink makes sure that you get enough protein per serving, and how that take should be balanced overall.
Celevida Diabetes and Weight Management Nutrition Health Drink
12. BPI Sports Best Protein
Well if you are worried about having lean muscles, this protein powder will offer the perfect solution to this problem. One can easily use this powder to maintain your body weight and gain incredible energy which will boost your immunity as well. People will diabetes can effectively get the perfect-sugar free diet with this dietary formula.
Just one scoop would give you enough whey protein extract and also maltodextrin and that too without any fillers. BCAAS are also present in this formula in a very considerable quantity which does empower you to effectively manage diabetes as well. Also the best part with this product is that it comes with money back guarantee as well so you can just give a shot at this product!
What to Look Out for When Buying Protein Powder?
When you hunt for protein powder, these are the few things that you need to keep in your mind.
- Make sure that your chosen product has minimal to no sugar ingredients in it. Sugar is the sole enemy of diabetic people that they need to steer clear of.
- Also, the protein powder should not have artificial flavorings of any kind. Even some fruits contain sugar; that is why protein supplements with sugar in it must be avoided.
- The next step is to make sure that your chosen product has minimum artificial sweeteners in it. For more detailed knowledge, you can check out the ingredient list given on the back of the product.
- Finally, a protein powder should be enjoyable. Its taste and flavor must be something that you can incorporate for a long time. If you purchase something with a flat base, there is a high possibility that you won’t use the product for a long time.
How to purchase the best protein drink for people with diabetes?
Following are some points that you need to keep in your mind while purchasing protein powder for yourself for someone else who has diabetes.
Protein powder might be the ideal option for people who have diabetes and want to gain weight. As these people cannot participate in intense workouts, the next best possible option is protein powders.
The next question that bothers many people is whether Whey is suitable for the person or not? To be clear, there is no particular answer to this question. Many diabetic people have reported that Whey certainly upsets their stomachs. If that is not the situation with you, you can continue using protein powders with whey powder. However, if it does, go for the plant-based protein powders; they are a much safer option than anything else. Also, to ensure that your selected product is the right choice, one must carefully read the ingredient list behind the product.
Ingredients that ‘Diabetics’ Should Avoid
Whether you are dealing with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, you should steer clear of the enemies are sugar and carbohydrates. To make sure, you can look for the ‘No sugar added‘ label on the product’s bottom.
The next thing is, even if the products are sugar-free, they can still have carbs in them. Also, some supplements comprise excess fiber in them, which are absorbed by your body. So in simple words, you need to check for two ingredients while purchasing the protein supplement. Make sure it does not have added sugar or additional carbs in them. Other than this, you are good to go with any other regular product.
🌟 FAQ related to Protein Drinks for Diabetics
Are protein shakes safe for diabetics?
Protein drinks are suitable for diabetics. Protein shakes are intended to provide protein to your body. Still, they also contain other essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals, which will benefit your health.
Is it possible for a diabetic to consume too much protein?
Excess protein consumption and low insulin levels in diabetics can result in greater conversion of proteins to glucose, which may have a negative effect on blood glucose control.
How much protein should a diabetic patient eat for breakfast?
A diabetic patient should eat at least 10 grams of protein. Choosing foods with a low glycemic index (less likely to spike blood sugar).
Is it true that protein powder raises blood sugar levels?
Protein powders have been shown to have no or little effect on blood sugar levels. This, however, varies from product to product.
Is protein beneficial to diabetics?
Protein content is especially beneficial for diabetics because it has no effect on blood sugar levels. It is filling and contains essential nutrients that aid in the growth and repair of the body.
Bottom Line: Best Protein Powders for Diabetes
Protein drinks for people with diabetes are hard to find—certain precautions and conditions we need to keep in our mind. However, the primary ones are sugar and carbs. Protein supplements are good for our health. But if you are considering skipping your meal and having a glass of protein drink instead, you are mistaken. Healthy food and diet should always be our priority.
Not only protein supplements can fulfill the job of proteins in our life. Many delicious foods are high in protein, including eggs, chicken breast, oatmeal, almonds, broccoli, and high in protein. And these foods are safe to consume for a diabetic person. But we also tried our list of 12 Best Protein Drinks for Diabetes to offer the safest option for you in the list mentioned above. You can go with an option that matches your taste and flavor, and you are good to go! Don’t forget to comment down your favorite!
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