Diabetics often look for ways to add protein to their diet without increasing their sugar intake.
Whey protein
is a popular choice, but is it safe for diabetics? According to Harvard Health Publishing, adding one scoop of protein powder to a glass of milk can add 10 to 30 grams of protein to your diet. Being a rich source of amino acids, whey supplements stimulate the secretion of insulin, which is responsible for throwing glucose into cells. However, a study found that in people who were overweight or had high blood fat levels, blood sugar actually increased after consuming whey protein.Bob's Red Mill Whey Protein Powder offers a protein powder without flavor or sugar available in most grocery stores or on Amazon. It is a whey protein concentrate, which has a slightly different nutrient composition than whey protein isolate. Vega Vanilla Protein and Greens is a tasty plant-based protein powder available in most grocery stores, with no added sugar (sweetened with stevia). It's important to note that protein powder should not be used as a reason not to consume protein from food.
While whey protein is a powder of animal origin along with casein or egg protein, there are also plant-based powders such as soy, rice, hemp, potato and pea proteins. Among other things, whey protein is often used to improve athletic performance. Previous research suggests that whey protein increases insulin secretion, but there isn't enough evidence to show that eating whey protein powders or shakes causes glucose levels to improve glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes. In addition, many protein supplements, including whey, contain added sugars and calories that could turn a glass of milk into a 1,200-calorie drink and increase blood sugar.
In the small BMJ study, researchers concluded that whey protein could be an option for providers to talk to their patients with diabetes who are not obese or have high triglyceride levels, but more research is needed. Protein powder should not be used as a substitute for a meal and should not be the main source of protein in the diet. To keep blood glucose levels constant, whey protein isolate can be divided into 6 small meals, using portions of 5 g at each meal, in the form of a shake. For diabetics looking for ways to add more protein to their diet without increasing their sugar intake, whey protein can be an option if they are not obese or have high triglyceride levels.
However, it's important to note that it should not be used as a substitute for food and should not be the main source of protein in the diet. Additionally, many whey proteins contain added sugars and calories that could increase blood sugar levels. Therefore, it's best to consult with your doctor before taking any kind of supplement.
