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TOP 11 Best Protein Powders For Diabetics – Quick Guide & Reviews 2023

Being a diabetic doesnโ€™t mean that you canโ€™t improve your health, lose weight and even build muscle.

You simply need to be more aware of what you are putting into your body. It is possible to lose weight and build lean muscle by using the best protein powder for diabetics.

Of course, there are many different products on the market; choosing the right one is not always easy; but with this guide, it doesnโ€™t have to be hard.

Take a look at the following 11 protein powders; there is one there that will suit your needs perfectly, whether you want the best organic pre-workout option or the best vegan protein powder on the market.

Itโ€™s time to discover the truth; you can be a diabetic and take protein powder.

Top 11 Best Protein Powders for Diabetics Reviewed 2023

Isopure Zero Carb - Best Protein Powder For Diabetics

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Isopure Unflavored Protein, 25g Whey Isolate, with Vitamin C & Zinc for Immune Support, Zero Carb & Keto Friendly, 3 Pounds (Packaging May Vary)
  • UNFLAVORED POWDER โ€“ one scoop easily mixes in your favorite beverage or food for a high-protein treat
  • 2 INGREDIENT PROFILE โ€“profile consisting of only whey protein isolate and soy lecithin (to help create a creamy texture)
  • 100% WHEY PROTEIN ISOLATE โ€“ a high-quality protein source providing 25g per serving to support muscle
  • ZERO CARBS, FAT, SUGAR โ€“ helps For those watching their calorie intakes.
  • WEIGHT MANAGEMENT โ€“ supports your weight management goals by providing 100 calories per serving

Review: This is one of the best diabetic protein powder options as it is unsweetened and can be easily mixed with anything.

It also has no fat, no carbs, and no sugar, making it one of the best protein powder for diabetics and weight loss.

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Pros

  • 26g protein.
  • No carbs, fats or sugars.
  • Tastes great.
  • Easily mixed.
  • Good value.

Cons

  • Some have had issues dissolving this in water or hot liquids.

Takeaway

There really is little to fault this offering from Isopure. Itโ€™s great for diabetics, those with a gluten allergy, and can help you to lose weight while building lean muscle. Itโ€™s number 1!

NOW Sports Whey Protein Isolate Powder - Premium Choice

NOW Sports Nutrition, Whey Protein Isolate, 25 g With BCAAs, Unflavored Powder, 5-Pound
  • NOW Sports products are comprehensively tested so you can trust that our products are pure and effective for every level of athletics.
  • PROTEIN POWDER WITH BCAAs: Whey Protein Isolate is a high-quality protein that is both bioavailable and easily digested.
  • UNFLAVORED, NO ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERS: Mix one level scoop into your daily smoothie for 25 g of protein per serving.
  • GMP Quality Assured: NPA A-rated GMP certification means that every aspect of the NOW manufacturing process has been examined, including our laboratory/testing methods (for stability, potency, and product formulation).
  • Packaged in the USA by a family owned and operated company since 1968.

Review: This comes in a variety of flavors and is very low in fat. It is a natural product with a very clean profile and well worth considering.

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Pros

  • 25g protein.
  • Just 0.5g fat.
  • Choice of flavors.
  • Fast absorbing whey isolate.

Cons

  • 2g sugar & 2.5g carbs.
  • At the cheaper end of the protein powder scales.

Takeaway

While the array of flavors will help to keep this interesting, this is not the best option if youโ€™re looking to lose weight.

In fact, the level of carbs and sugar should make you consider this as a temporary meal replacement; instead of a supplement.

Magnum Nutraceuticals Quattro Protein Powder - Editors Choice

Magnum Nutraceuticals Quattro Protein Powder - 2lbs - Vanilla Ice Cream - Pharmaceutical Grade Protein Isolate - Lactose Free - Gluten Free - Peanut Free
  • APPETITE SUPPRESSANT: Your workout might leave you feeling pretty hungry afterward. Instead of ruining your progress and indulging in a large meal, opt for this low-calorie, low-carb protein shake. It will help to suppress your appetite and can even act as a meal replacement and help you feel full until the next meal time.
  • IMPROVES IMMUNE & BONE HEALTH: This delicious protein shake contains superfood omegas, including CLA and flaxseed, to help increase the presence of essential fatty acids and promote protein assimilation. This helps to boost your immune system and improve your bone health. You wonโ€™t just perform your best โ€” youโ€™ll also feel your best.
  • BUILD MUSCLE & DECREASE FATIGUE: If youโ€™re trying to bulk up, use Quattro Chocolate Love as a part of your daily dietary supplements to help you build larger, denser, and leaner muscle mass. Youโ€™ll also speed up post-workout recovery so that you can continue to hit the gym and feel less fatigued after each visit.
  • GREAT-TASTING, GLUTEN-FREE FORMULA: Diet supplements and weight loss drinks can be difficult to stomach with their bizarre flavors and funny aftertastes. Quattro Chocolate Love, however, is a delicious chocolate-flavored protein isolate that you can mix with water. Enjoy the taste day-in and day-out.
  • HELPS WITH METABOLISM & DIGESTION: Quattro is a great way to burn fat and increase your metabolism. This complete dietary supplement helps to prevent gas and bloating by supporting optimal digestion and improving metabolic nutrition. This can then help to optimize fat burning and decrease your appetite.

Review: With 30g of protein, this could be called the best protein supplement for diabetics available. Of course, there is a concern that 30g is pushing the upper limits of protein content.

25g-30g is the most you should absorb in one sitting; any more will not be absorbed by your body and will be wasted.

If youโ€™re taking this with food you may be wasting protein.

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Pros

  • 30g protein.
  • 4 sources of protein.
  • 3 flavor options.
  • Has superfood omegas; CLA & Flaxseed to boost the immune system.

Cons

  • No BCAAs.
  • Some people have commented on the taste; like melted butter.

Takeaway

If youโ€™re looking for a protein powder that gives a little more then this could be the one for you.

The CLA and flaxseed provide fatty acids which can improve the effectiveness of your immune system while strengthening your bones.

MRM All Natural Whey Protein Powder

MRM Nutrition Whey Protein | Vanilla Flavored |18g Protein | with 2 Billion probiotics + Digestive enzymes + BCAAs | High Absorption + Digestion | Hormone + antibiotic Free | 33 Servings
  • DESIGNED FOR: Elite and recreational athletes who are looking for a high quality 100% whey protein from grass fed cows to support lean muscle growth.
  • HIGHER DIGESTIBILITY: We added digestive enzymes and our MICROBAC probiotic blend with 16 different probiotic strains to this protein to make it highly digestible and absorptive to support your fitness goals.
  • SUPPORTS RECOVERY: We included 7.7g BCAA+G to support muscle recovery post-workout.
  • PROMOTES GUT HEALTH: The addition of fermented milk (kefir) provides additional nutrients to support gut health.** Our whey protein is a well-rounded whole food alternative to other whey on the market.
  • RECOMMENDATIONS: Add 1 scoop to 3-4oz of water or your favorite beverage and shake or blend well. | CERTIFICATIONS: This product is Gluten-Free.

Review: This is a good protein powder for diabetics as it is completely natural. Knowing what you eat is important to maintain a balanced diet.

In addition, there are plenty of L-glutamines in this option which is essential to strengthening your body after exercise; making it perfect for the diabetic who wants to stay active.

Pros

  • 18g protein.
  • Contains L-glutamines.
  • Has potassium.
  • Digest-All mix to aid digestion.

Cons

  • 5g carbs, 1g of fat & sugar.
  • 30mg cholesterol; on the high side.

Takeaway

MRM is not yet a household name and with 1.5g carbohydrates, they may not the best diabetic product for weight loss. But, it is a natural product with a lot of positives; well worth a shot.

NOW Sports Pea Protein Powder

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NOW Sports Nutrition, Pea Protein 24 g, Fast Absorbing, Unflavored Powder, 7-Pound
  • NOW Sports products are comprehensively tested so you can trust that our products are pure and effective for every level of athletics.
  • PURE PEA PROTEIN POWDER: Pea Protein is a non-GMO vegetable protein isolate that has 24 grams of easily-digested protein.
  • PLANT-BASED WITH BCAAs: Each 1 scoop serving typically has over 4,200 mg of branched-chain amino acids and over 2,000 mg of arginine.
  • GMP Quality Assured: NPA A-rated GMP certification means that every aspect of the NOW manufacturing process has been examined, including our laboratory/testing methods (for stability, potency, and product formulation).
  • Packaged in the USA by a family owned and operated company since 1968.

Review: This is vegetarian and vegan-friendly as well as being good for diabetics. The peas are certified as non-GMO

Pros

  • 24g protein.
  • Zero sugar.
  • Low fat & carbs.
  • Lactose-free.

Cons

  • Taste leaves a little to be desired.
  • Not as much leucine as whey.

Takeaway

If youโ€™re vegetarian or vegan then this has to be a top contender. However, it is important to note that leucine is an essential branch chain amino acid for muscle growth; you wonโ€™t find much of it in pea protein.

It is possibly the best option if youโ€™re diabetic and lactose intolerant.

Biochem 100% Whey Sugar Free Protein

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Biochem 100% Whey Sugar-Free Vanilla 20g, 11.8oz, Certified Vegetarian, Certified Gluten Free, Certified Non-GMO Tested, Keto Friendly, Grass-Fed
  • High protein - 20g 100% whey protein per serving, pure grass-fed with no preservatives
  • Complete protein - Fast absorbing whole protein with all 9 amino acids, and more
  • Maximum performance - Supports muscles to support more intense workouts
  • Supports muscle mass - Complete protein to help support muscles
  • Delicious and easy to mix. Certified vegetarian and gluten free. Non-GMO, keto friendly and grass-fed.

Review: This is a completely natural product with no fat, no sugar, and very few carbs. It also contains an array of extra nutrients to help ensure your body has everything it needs.

Pros

  • 20g protein.
  • Protein from grass-fed cows.
  • Contains calcium, phosphorous, magnesium, & potassium.
  • A wide variety of flavors.
  • Vegan-friendly & gluten free.

Cons

  • Very weak drink, youโ€™ll be better off mixing it.

Takeaway

Itโ€™s worth noting that it does contain maltodextrin which is a sugar. However, that aside, this is a balanced, environmentally friendly product; which will help you to achieve your weight loss goals.

MusclePharm 100% Whey Isolate Protein

Review: MusclePharm appears on almost every best protein powder list, regardless of who it is designed to appeal to.

The main reason for this is that the product is well researched and designed with plenty of protein.

Although low in carbs it does have more than itโ€™s counterparts; which means youโ€™ll need to monitor the effects carefully.

Pros

  • 25g protein.
  • 300mg potassium.
  • Low-temperature microfiltration to maintain the highest quality protein.
  • Tested for banned substances.
  • 100% money back guarantee.

Cons

  • 3g carbohydrates; not high but one of the highest on this list.
  • Does not mix well in cold water.

Takeaway

This product is a good option for anyone exercising and needing a boost straight after exercise.

The whey isolate absorbs quickly into your body, helping to repair muscle damage and reduce muscle soreness. The low carbs will also help to maintain energy levels.

But, thanks to the 3g carbs, it may be better used after exercise or instead of a meal; not as well as.

Sun Star Organics Pea Protein Powder

Review: The peas used in this product are non-GMO and of extremely high quality. It contains all 9 essential amino acids and a few other nutrients to help your body perform properly.

If youโ€™re lactose intolerant, a vegan or even a vegetarian then this is a great protein powder for you.

Pros

  • 21g protein.
  • No added sugar.
  • Dairy & gluten free.
  • No preservatives or artificial colorings.
  • Less than 0.5g fat and carbs.

Cons

  • Doesnโ€™t mix well with water.

Takeaway

Although this is a relatively new product it has the potential to be a good alternative to whey protein powders; while helping to maintain your blood glucose levels and weight loss goals.

Dr. Bergโ€™s Meal Replacement Shake

Dr. Berg's Keto Meal Replacement Shake for Weight Loss - Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder Shakes w/ MCTs & BCAAs - Vegan Protein Shakes - Zero Sugar, Creamy Chocolate Brownie Flavor - 1.55 lbs.
  • ๐—ข๐—ก-๐—ง๐—›๐—˜-๐—š๐—ข ๐—ก๐—จ๐—ง๐—ฅ๐—œ๐—ง๐—œ๐—ข๐—ก - With 11 grams of clean plant protein and four grams of MCTs derived from coconut oil, this shake provides nutritional food replacement in the morning that keeps you full until lunch!
  • ๐—ฃ๐—ข๐—ฆ๐—ง-๐—ช๐—ข๐—ฅ๐—ž๐—ข๐—จ๐—ง ๐—ฅ๐—˜๐—–๐—ข๐—ฉ๐—˜๐—ฅ๐—ฌ - Boost energy with these power-packed meal replacement drinks containing BCAAs for your daily muscle recovery! The best post-workout protein-rich supplement!
  • ๐——๐—˜๐—Ÿ๐—œ๐—–๐—œ๐—ข๐—จ๐—ฆ ๐—ฉ๐—˜๐—š๐—”๐—ก ๐—ฃ๐—ฅ๐—ข๐—ง๐—˜๐—œ๐—ก ๐—ฃ๐—ข๐—ช๐——๐—˜๐—ฅ - This creamy chocolate brownie shake is healthy and tasty. It will be the vegan protein powder drink you look forward to. It has no aftertaste and itโ€™s extremely nutritious.
  • ๐—ฃ๐—˜๐—ฅ๐—™๐—˜๐—–๐—ง ๐—™๐—ข๐—ฅ ๐—ž๐—˜๐—ง๐—ข ๐—Ÿ๐—œ๐—™๐—˜๐—ฆ๐—ง๐—ฌ๐—Ÿ๐—˜ - With our added MCTs, more ketones can be burned as fuel, supporting weight loss and management. This shake was designed to perfectly suit a ketogenic diet without sacrificing flavor.
  • ๐—–๐—ข๐— ๐— ๐—œ๐—ง๐—ง๐—˜๐—— ๐—ง๐—ข ๐—ฆ๐—”๐—ง๐—œ๐—ฆ๐—™๐—”๐—–๐—ง๐—œ๐—ข๐—ก - If for any reason you're not happy with your experience within the first 30 days, weโ€™re happy to give you a refund! Simply send us a message. The refund will be processed as long as it is requested within 30 days of purchase. There is no need to return the product to us.

Review: If youโ€™re often limited for time then a meal replacement shake might be the best option for you; providing its part of a healthy diet.

This product is specially formulated to give you all the nutrients you need, while on the go.

Itโ€™s definitely worth a try.

Pros

  • Zero sugar.
  • Contains phosphorus and potassium.
  • Very low in calories โ€“ 90.
  • MCTs from Coconut oil powder.
  • Uses Organic pea protein; ideal for vegans.

Cons

  • 11g protein.
  • Very thin which may make it difficult for you to feel full.

Takeaway

This is designed as a meal replacement so doesnโ€™t include as much protein as many of the other options on this list. However, it is a good way to maintain your diet when you havenโ€™t got time to prepare your lunch.

Youโ€™ll need to eat a balanced meal later in the day and perhaps use one of the other protein powders to ensure you have enough.

Quest Nutrition Protein Powder

Quest Nutrition Vanilla Milkshake Protein Powder, High Protein, Low Carb, Gluten Free, Soy Free, 2 Pound
  • Quest Protein Powders can be transformed into a decadent shake or baked into a delicious, protein-rich treat, Packaging May Vary
  • Contains vanilla bean specs to enhance the flavor
  • 24g Protein, 2g Net Carbs, 0g Sugar
  • No unnecessary ingredients for an incredibly high protein-to-calories percentage
  • Made with high-quality Casein and Whey Protein Isolates; Sweetened with Stevia and Sucralose

Review: Quest has provided a protein powder that is low in carbs but high in protein with both an instant hit and a slower release; thanks to the addition of whey isolate and casein.

It favors a limited ingredient approach, encouraging a high ratio of protein to calories which will help to maintain your blood sugar levels and aid recovery after exercise.

Pros

  • 24g protein.
  • 3g carbs.
  • Less than 1g sugars.
  • Contains calcium, potassium & phosphorous.

Cons

  • Contains stevia and sucralose.
  • Doesnโ€™t blend as well as it could.

Takeaway

This is a good, if little known, product. It does have room for improvement regarding the artificial sweeteners but will generally help you to burn fat and boost muscle strength without antagonizing your diabetes.

Paleo Thin Egg White Protein Powder

Julian Bakery Paleo Thin Protein Powder | Egg White | Unflavored | 25g Protein | Soy-Free | GMO-Free | 2 LBS | 30 Servings
  • Paleo Protein Powder Is Soy Free (Egg Whites) From USA Farms (30 Servings Total)
  • Unflavored - Instantly Mixes In Water (GMO Free) (2 Lbs) IKDiet Phase 1 Compliant
  • Two Ingredients: Egg White Powder & Sunflower Lecithin (381mg Sodium Naturally Occurring)
  • Makes Incredible Shakes! 25g Protein Per Scoop ( Highest Grade Egg Whites)
  • 25g Egg White Protein Per Scoop (1 Carb) (Complete Protein) (Ideal For Lean Muscles)

Review: If youโ€™re lactose intolerant and looking for the next highest quality protein source, you need egg protein.

This offering from Julian Bakery has plenty of protein, very little sugar, and carbs, and contains just two ingredients, egg white powder and sunflower lecithin.

Pros

  • 25g protein.
  • Less than 1g sugars and carbs.
  • Mixes easily with water.
  • GMO-free.

Cons

  • Bland flavor.

Takeaway

This is a great option for lactose intolerant diabetics that want to mix their protein powder with a meal or water.

It has also been noted as being the gentlest form of protein; which is beneficial if youโ€™re already suffering from lactose intolerance issues and diabetes. You donโ€™t need to upset your stomach any further.

Your Quick Guide to Protein Powders for Diabetics

Having diabetes means that your body is struggling to control your blood sugar levels. This is why you need to avoid foods high in sugar and watch what you eat.

But, if you choose the best protein powder brands for diabetics you can use these supplements effectively and safely.

Here are the most important things to consider when choosing the best protein powder for diabetics.

Whey protein with a metal dumbbell and shaker

Types of Protein Powder Available

You may be surprised by how many different types of protein powders are actually on the market. Each type has its own role and purpose:

  • Whey Protein – Whey is the most commonly known. It is taken from milk and absorbed very quickly by the body. It can be further refined into isolate or hydrolysate; both of which are purer forms and can be lactose-free.
  • Casein – Casein is also derived from milk but it has a much slower absorption rate. This makes it a good choice in the evening to keep your muscle repair going overnight.
  • Soy – This is a plant-based protein and considered to be a high-quality protein. It doesnโ€™t generally offer as much protein as whey but it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
  • Egg – Eggs are high in protein and fat; thatโ€™s why you can eat too many of them. But, the powder form removes most of the fat giving you good quality protein which is great for vegetarians and those with milk allergies.
  • Pea – Pea protein is an increasingly common type of protein which is moderately high in protein, (compared to whey), and suitable for vegetarians, vegans and anyone with allergies.

Benefits of Protein Powder for Diabetics

There are several benefits to taking a protein powder, some are relevant whether you have diabetes or not:

  • Boosts muscle repair.
  • Strengthens bones and muscles.
  • Can help to reduce blood sugar levels when eating; this applies to whey protein.
  • Reduces appetite between meals; helping to prevent you from consuming sugary snacks.

Powder Choices for Type 2 vs. Type 1

The best choice of protein powder for diabetics is whey. As research demonstrates taking whey can help to reduce blood sugar levels at meal times.

This makes it the best choice. However, if you have lactose intolerance you can opt for egg or even soy.

However, it is also possible to get whey protein without lactose; it will need to be whey isolate or hydrolysate, and not the concentrate form.

Whey protein shaker and dumbbells

FAQ

Letโ€™s take a look at the most commonly asked questions; if you canโ€™t find the answer youโ€™re looking for then contact me for honest advice.

Is Protein Powder Bad for Diabetics?

Too much protein is bad for anyone and diabetics are no different. In fact, a diabetic has the same protein need as a non-diabetic.

The difference is that, at mealtimes, extra protein can help you to keep your blood glucose levels lower.

However, eating more food is likely to increase the number of carbohydrates and sugar youโ€™re consuming; negating the effects of the additional protein.

Thatโ€™s where protein powders come into their own. By using low fat, low carb, and low sugar powder youโ€™ll be increasing protein without the negative effects of additional food.

Of course, in most cases protein powder is not intended as a meal replacement; it should be part of your diet to ensure you get all the nutrition you need.

Can Diabetics Take Whey Protein?

Whey protein is actually found in milk curds; a side effect of the milk creation process. As a milk product, it can be an issue for lactose intolerant people; although it depends which type of whey protein you use; as discussed above.

Assuming youโ€™re not lactose intolerant or you choose a whey isolate powder, you can take whey protein; you simply have to choose the best whey protein powder for diabetics; as shown by the list above.

Is Whey Protein Safe for Diabetics?

Yes! In fact, the best whey protein powder for diabetics has been shown to give a 28% lower blood sugar level when you consume the whey protein with your food!

In fact, the whey protein actually improves insulin response, helping to alleviate the effects of diabetes. It may not be a cure but it will certainly help you to manage it.

Which Type of Protein Powder is Best for Diabetics?

The key when looking at the different powder options is the amount of sugar in the mix. The higher the sugar levels, the more your blood sugar will become elevated and the more difficult it will be to control.

Providing you take a low, or no sugar protein powder, and one that you are not allergic to; you can actually choose any of the protein powders on offer.

Final Thoughts on the Best Protein Powder for Diabetics

For many people, diabetes is easier to control than you think.

When you have reduced insulin sensitivity, the addition of protein to your diet can actually lower blood sugar levels and still provide the fuel your body needs to operate.

All you need to do is choose the best protein powder for diabetes on this list that fits with your circumstances and goals; then take it in accordance with your exercise regime; if you have one.

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