If you're reading this, likely, you're one of those people with blood sugar control problems searching for a drink that will fit into your diet. Being diabetic sucks big time, but the sweet world of diet supplements promises to be kinder than the rest. Sadly though, not every drink is created equal and some still leave a bitter aftertaste even when they claim to be diabetic-friendly.
In this body text (oops), we'll take an in-depth look at Atkins protein shakes to determine whether or not they’re safe for diabetics. So, relax and grab yourself something suitable - sugary drinks are off-limits now!
Our love-hate relationship
For centuries now (okay maybe years) low-carb diets have been around; hence it's no surprise that many brands rush into producing keto-centric products just because it sells! Although I’m a nobody in branding compared to these companies', some products aren't as 'diabetes-friendly' as their product blurb would want us to believe.
So being sly foxes that we are (don’t try this on veggies) let’s investigate what's going down with Atkins protein shakes.
Understanding Diabetes: A Crash Course
Diabetes mellitus is primarily characterized by high glucose content within the bloodstream. The reason behind which could vary among individuals due to either insufficient insulin production or relative deficiency -aka resistance- due decreased sensitivity of cells towards insulin action(feels like breaking out) From type 1 diabetes resulting from autoimmune deficiencies affecting beta cells-producing insulin within pancreatic tissues in early childhood or juvenile age group(as oppose grandmothers tale)to Type 2 where obesity and lifestyle factors come hand-in-hand leading chronic elevated blood sugars over prolonged periods.(Blame McDonald!)
What Is An Ideal Diabetic Diet?
A person living with diabetes needs nourishing meals incorporating generous amounts fiber-rich foods such as veggies and fruits, lean protein, and good fats. It's recommended that persons living with diabetes should consume fewer carbohydrates to avoid storing excess glucose as fat since elevated blood sugar levels may drastically affect their normal bodily functions.
Based on the aforementioned, let's consider if a low carb supplement such as Atkins Protein shakes is ideal for diabetics.
Atkins Diet
Atkins diet is a type of eating plan based on lowering carbohydrate intake by eliminating starchy foods such as carbs and instead focusing more on proteins, vegetables(by default eggnog isn’t included), cheese, and butter &gourmet meats.(Yummy!) By this standard alone one can agree it also excludes Sugary Drinks (which leads to spiked blood sugars )in its entirety!
This said what exactly do we make of the wordings from the manufacturer concerning the shake?
Nutritional Value
The nutritional information per serving includes 15 g of protein consisting mainly:(Drum roll please);
- Whey protein concentrate.
- Soluble corn fiber (Huh?!)
- Vitamin APalmitate!(err… Sorry i Digressed=
- Sodium Caseinate
- Calcium caseinate
- Sunflower oil
As taking 2 shakes a day which provides enough protein but insufficient in vitamins&minerals; May still mean incorporating healthful traditional meals(Salut!).
Low Carbs: How Essential?
Going by diabetic standards particularly when seeking weight-loss supplements which reduces daily calories considerably after reviewing patients medical history coupled with consulting your Physician(Give that Doctor some credit),it's recommended that individuals limit total consuming/12 gram/day(told yah<) of carbohydrate-rich food before purchasing any product{that comes ATATKIN-joke!).
An Atkins vanilla-flavored shake contains about 3 grams while chocolate has I gram more (&they say women love chocolates?) whereby both account for minimal glycemic index response ensuring blood sugars remain in check. Whilst the shake is not carb-free, it's still considered low-carb.
But What Is Soluble Corn Fiber?
Soluble corn fiber (SCF) despite its name isn’t necessarily made from corn. It’s a type of fiber and acts as an alternative sweetener commonly used to reduce sugar content alongside enabling consistency required for delicious taste experience(Fingers crossed!) FYI A standard multivitamin supplement could contain excessive doses which poses health risks(Look before you leap).
The Verdict
Atkins Protein Shake just like many other protein shakes can be ideal for individuals living with diabetes by providing less carbohydrate compared to traditional drinks. Be that as it may, due consultation with some medical personnel would do no harm ensuring utmost health safety combining its use into your regular meal plans(Safety First!).
Wrapping It Up
Well there we have it folks! (takes breath) Hope this information was helpful when making choices on supplements or even giving insight into what adequate meals should encompass,(hears applause?)In conclusion, Atkins protein shake is deemed 'Diabetes-friendly' but always make sure You are familiar with your unique dietary needs(Caution!),peruse the product description&ingredient list(Holla Back!).
Once more People,Carbohydrates Are Not Your Enemies!(But Processed carbs on ice cream certainly cause lower back pain-oh wait that Exaggeration..aha!).