From the Research
Glucerna is a beneficial nutritional drink for people with diabetes, as it helps minimize blood sugar spikes and provides sustained energy with its low glycemic index formulation and balanced nutrition. The primary benefits of Glucerna include its ability to regulate postprandial glucose and insulin levels, as demonstrated in a study published in the Endocrine journal 1, which found that Glucerna provided better control of postprandial plasma glucose and insulin levels in Chinese subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Some of the key features of Glucerna that contribute to its benefits include:
- Low glycemic index formulation to minimize blood sugar spikes
- Blend of slow-release carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats, and fiber for sustained energy
- Fortification with essential vitamins and minerals for convenient nutritional supplementation
- Balanced nutrition in a controlled calorie format, making it suitable for meal replacement or snacks
- Potential benefits for weight loss while maintaining proper nutrition
It is essential to note that Glucerna should be used as part of a comprehensive diabetes management plan, including regular monitoring of blood glucose levels, proper medication adherence, and consultation with healthcare providers 2. While Glucerna can be a convenient option, it should not replace whole foods entirely, as a varied diet provides additional nutritional benefits that cannot be fully replicated in a prepared drink. A study published in the Clinical Nutrition journal found that treatment with Glucerna was associated with improvements in HbA1c, nutritional status, BMI, and quality of life in elderly patients with diabetes who were malnourished or at risk for malnutrition 2. Overall, Glucerna can be a valuable addition to a diabetes management plan, providing benefits in terms of blood sugar regulation, nutritional supplementation, and convenience, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study available 2.