Carewell Buying Guide: Nutritional Shakes & Supplements for Diabetic Nutrition
More than 38 million Americans have diabetes, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). There are several types of diabetes, but they all affect the body’s ability to produce or use insulin –– a hormone that helps cells convert blood sugar (or glucose) to energy. Without insulin, sugar builds up in the blood, increasing the risk of health problems like vision loss, nerve damage (neuropathy), and heart disease. Thankfully, most of these risks can be mitigated with a diabetes diet.
Since many of the families we serve care for someone with diabetes, we’ve added a variety of diabetes-friendly products to our online store. This shoppable list highlights some of our best diabetic nutrition products so you can support your loved one’s needs.
What Is a Diabetes Diet?
A diabetes diet is a healthy eating plan that keeps blood sugar within the optimal range. It includes nutrient-rich foods and drinks that are low in fat and carbohydrates. Monitoring the amount of fats and carbs you or your loved one eats prevents blood sugar from spiking, supports healthy weight, and reduces the risk of common diabetes side effects, like heart disease.
How We Chose The Products In This List
The products featured in this list are a mix of our best-selling and top-rated nutritional shakes and diabetic nutrition products. Each selection can be used to support a diabetes diet. We’ve included real user feedback whenever possible, under the heading “Hear It From a User/Caregiver.”
Carewell’s Best Nutritional Diabetes Shakes & Products for Diabetic Nutrition
1. Nepro with Carbsteady, Ready To Use Oral Supplement, Vanilla Flavor
Diabetes is a leading cause of kidney failure. In fact, up to 44% of people on dialysis for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are there because of diabetes. Nepro with Carbsteady is specifically formulated to support folks on dialysis. It ensures nutritional balance while replacing calories and protein lost during dialysis treatment. Each 8-ounce bottle provides 19.1 grams of protein and 420 calories. It’s also a great source of fiber and prebiotics.
Key Benefits & Features
Can be consumed orally or with tube feeding
High in calories and protein to support patients on dialysis
Gluten-free and safe for those with lactose intolerance
Hear It From a Caregiver: “My husband is on dialysis and he loves these! We also love the price.” - Gwendolyn W.
Price: $4.54 - $101.71
2. Boost Glucose Control Balanced Nutritional Drink
Many people with diabetes have to avoid their favorite treats to maintain healthy blood sugar. Boost Glucose Control provides a way to satisfy your sweet tooth, without the risks of soda or a traditional milkshake. Each 8-ounce serving contains 190 calories, 16 grams of protein, calcium, and vitamin C. It can be used as a meal replacement or a snack when you’re on the go.
Key Benefits & Features
Formulated for diabetics and others who need to monitor their blood sugar
Includes 25 vitamins and minerals to support nutritional balance and good health
Gluten-free and safe for those with lactose intolerance
Hear It From a User: “Good taste [and] helps me maintain my weight. I use it before working out. I’ve dropped my A1C to the prediabetic level.” - Donald H.
3. Glucerna Original Diabetic Shake
Keeping your blood sugar within the optimal range is challenging. Eating too many carbs can cause your blood sugar to spike, but eating too few can result in a significant “low” or hypoglycemia.
Glucerna aims to keep blood sugar within the “Goldilocks zone,” by managing your carb intake. It’s scientifically formulated to manage these ups and downs with CARBSTEADY. CARBSTEADY is a blend of slow-release carbohydrates that prevent blood sugar spikes while providing immune system support.
Key Benefits & Features
#1 doctor-recommended nutrition brand for people with diabetes
Formulated to keep blood sugar from spiking
Contains protein, vitamins A & D, zinc, and antioxidants
Hear It From a Caregiver: “[A] wholesome meal to provide our loved ones who are diabetic. This can be treated as a healthy snack, too!” - Ofelia L.
Price: $12.48 - $44.96
4. TRUEplus Chewable Glucose Tablets, Raspberry Flavor
The American Diabetes Association says the average patient with Type 1 diabetes experiences low blood sugar up to twice a week. Folks with Type 2 diabetes are also at risk, especially if they take insulin or other medications. When these dips occur, TRUEplus Chewable Glucose Tablets can be a lifesaver. Each serving contains 15 grams of pure glucose so you can quickly alleviate hypoglycemia symptoms wherever you are.
Key Benefits & Features
15 grams of pure glucose per serving to quickly relieve hypoglycemia symptoms
Raises blood sugar quickly and safely
Provides an immediate energy boost while restoring blood sugar balance
Hear It From a User: “I bought [these] so I would have something to help me when [my blood] sugar drops while working in my yard. Just one of the tablets makes a noticeable difference after my sugar drops. It works quickly.” - Darryl H.
5. Glutose 15, Oral Glucose Gel
Glutose 15 is similar to TRUEplus. The difference is it comes in a gel instead of a tablet, so it’s a great option if you or your loved one have difficulty chewing. Ease single-dose packet contains 40% dextrose –– a type of sugar the body readily absorbs. The grape flavor is a crowd-pleaser, even with picky eaters!
Key Benefits & Features
Provides a rapid increase in blood sugar within minutes of consumption
Grape flavor goes down easy for kids and adults
Works fast, relieving hypoglycemia symptoms in no time
Hear It From a User: I looked everywhere in town to purchase this important glucose for my diabetes. Couldn't find it. You guys have it [at] a good price, and I received it in a fair amount of time. Thank you so much!!!” - Magdalena G.
Price: $21.99
6. Hormel Med Pass Reduced Sugar Fortified Nutritional Shake
Consider this Hormel Med Pass nutritional shake if your loved one has dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and needs help managing their blood sugar. The drink has a nectar consistency (IDDSI Level 2), is calorie and protein-dense, and comes in a resealable container for easy storage.
Key Benefits & Features
Fortified with 18 vitamins and minerals per serving for those unable to meet their daily nutritional needs
Has a smooth, mildly thick consistency to support those with difficulty swallowing
The reduced sugar version is specifically formulated to help individuals manage their blood sugar
Hear It From a Caregiver: “Had a little trouble getting the product (UPS issue) but it is a great product and worth the wait! Good product for patients with difficulty swallowing pills, which is what my husband uses it for.” - Janice S.
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Questions About Diabetic Nutrition? We’re Here For You!
A diabetes diagnosis includes a big learning curve. If you’re struggling to find nutrition products that meet you or your loved one’s needs, don’t be afraid to get in touch. Our friendly Care Team speaks English and Spanish and is available around the clock. Whether you have questions about a product on this list or need advice on dosages and administration, we’ve got you covered. Call (800) 696-CARE or email support@carewell.com.
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Chad Birt is a freelance medical writer who resides in Astoria, Oregon. When he isn't behind a keyboard, you can find him hiking, camping, or birdwatching with his wife Ella and their two dogs, Diane and Thoreau.
Chad Birt is a freelance medical writer who resides in Astoria, Oregon. When he isn't behind a keyboard, you can find him hiking, camping, or birdwatching with his wife Ella and their two dogs, Diane and Thoreau.