While the best meal replacement shakes are difficult enough to find, it's akin to finding a needle in a haystack 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 had some clients who had a hard time with this issue for a while. So, I joined forces with a diet expert and spent a few weeks researching to discover the best meal replacement shakes for people with diabetes.
Our Top Meal Replacement Shakes For Diabetics (September 2023)
1 - Instant Knockout Complete (Editor's Choice)
This wholesome, balanced,100% nutritionally entire meal replacement shake is specifically designed for people with diabetes. It has 26 essential nutrients, a powerhouse of 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 [1].
Instant Knockout Complete has no added sugars but is packed with calories to keep you feeling full throughout the day. This might not be ideal 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 [2].
I tested this product during my cutting phase, substituting it for one meal. It effectively curbed my hunger cravings and helped me reveal well-defined muscle while preserving muscle mass.
- Calories : 400
- Protein : 35g
- Fat : 13g
- Carbs : 35g
- 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
- Highest calorie count among all options
2 - Ample K
This is another meal replacement shake designed with careful consideration and 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.
I found that preparing this meal replacement is a breeze, taking just 30 seconds or even less. A quick fill, a shake, and you're good to go with a convenient meal. The flavor is good, though not great, depending on what liquid is added to it.
Its creamy texture and portability stand out as a plus.
- Calories : 180
- Protein : 10g
- Fat : 9g
- Carbs : 16g
- 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
- Only available in chocolate and vanilla flavors
3 - Glucerna Shake
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.
Having this product as an after-dinner drink has been a game-changer for curbing my late-night sweet cravings. Numerous diabetic users also share their success in using this product to effectively manage cravings.
- Calories : 180
- Protein : 10g
- Fat : 9g
- Carbs : 16g
- 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
- Only available in chocolate and vanilla flavors
4 - Atkins Gluten Free Protein-Rich Shake
Atkins supplements are generally quite popular with people trying to lose weight thanks to their proven effectiveness and nutritional balance.
This best meal replacement shake, in particular, made our list because I found that it is filling and could boost energy levels throughout the day.
- Calories : 160
- Protein : 15g
- Fat : 9g
- Carbs : 7g
- 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
- Might not be large enough for a breakfast replacement
5 - Boost Glucose Control Nutritional Drink
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.
While testing this product, I noticed that my energy level is more stable throughout the day without crashes and was able to engage in daily activities with less fatigue.
- Calories : 190
- Protein : 16g
- Fat : 7g
- Carbs : 16g
- 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
- May contain some artificial flavors
6 - Garden of Life Meal Replacement
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.
By using this product, I noticed a significant reduction in my energy dips and an increased sense of fullness.
- Calories : 115
- Protein : 20g
- Fat : 1.5g
- Carbs : 8g
- Suitable amount of protein for athletes
- Low net carbs to help you controlling blood sugar levels
- One of the lowest amounts of fat we could find
- Gluten-free
- More suitable as a snack replacement
7 - Slimfast Diabetic Weight Loss
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 vitamins and minerals that may support your overall well-being [3].
I noticed suppressed appetite for at least two hours from taking this meal replacement.
- Calories : 100
- Protein : 2g
- Fat : 7g
- Carbs : 12g
- 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
- Doesn’t contain enough protein for athletes
8 - 310 Plant-Based Meal Replacement Shake
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.
I noticed a significant improvement in my energy levels when using this meal replacement as my breakfast choice. It effectively provided me with the boost I needed to kickstart my day without causing any feelings of heaviness or undesirable sugar-induced fluctuations.
Additionally, the flavor of the supplement is quite pleasant, not overly protein tasting.
- Calories : 90
- Protein : 15g
- Fat : 1.5g
- Carbs : 7g
- 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
- nly available in small pouches
9 - Almased Meal Replacement Shake
This product is also popular with my clients who have got to a weight management stage.
I has worked well to keep my hunger cravings at bay that otherwise result in unhealthy snacking.
- Calories : 230
- Protein : 27g
- Fat : 7g
- Carbs : 15g
- 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
- Based on only soy protein which limits branched-chain amino acids
10 - Purely Inspired All-in-One Meal Meal Replacement Shake
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 weight loss and improve your digestive system [4].
After consuming this product, I found that my hunger remained satisfied for a considerable amount of time, and I retained a good level of energy. However, I must admit that the flavor and texture of the product were not particularly impressive.
- Calories : 140
- Protein : 20g
- Fat : 2.5g
- Carbs : 9g
- 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
- Limited flavor options could become boring
11 - IDLife Meal Replacements
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.
I found that this product effectively curbed my cravings and didn't lead to any intestinal discomfort. However, it's worth noting that it falls on the slightly more expensive side.
- Calories : 130
- Protein : 23g
- Fat : 2g
- Carbs : 7g
- 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
- Limited flavor options could become boring
What Should You Look for In Meal Replacement Supplements?
You should look for ingredients that are sugar-free, low in carbs, and low in calories in meal replacement supplements.
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,the sneaky and often harmful 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 [5].
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 [6].
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.
Other meal replacement shake we’ve reviewed:
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, diabetics can drink protein shakes, and it’s one of the better ways to help stabilize blood sugar levels providing a steady energy source without the sugar spikes. 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
- 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 September
- Highest calorie count among all options
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