Here’s the latest question from foodpicker.org:
I was diagnosed with diabetes a few months ago. I’m wondering about those bars and shakes I see advertised for people with diabetes. Are they good to use? Sometimes I’m out and need a snack or quick lunch.
Yes, diabetic bars and shakes can fit into a diabetic meal plan and can be very useful. The best part about them is their convenience! They can easily fit into a purse, gym bag or car. Diabetics should eat about every 4 hours to keep blood sugars stable and having a bar or shake around can be very handy, especially in a pinch when there’s nothing else to eat. With all that being said there are a few things to watch out for. Make sure you read the nutrition label. Just because it’s diabetes friendly doesn’t mean it doesn’t have carbohydrates. You must count the carbohydrates in these items just as you would with any other food. Don’t make a habit of using these items everyday, especially if it’s a meal replacement. It’s always best to eat a wide variety of foods and by using meal replacements you could miss out on important vitamins and nutrients. These bars and shakes can also be pricey and with a little planning you could just as easily pack some convenient snacks such as half a peanut butter sandwich on whole wheat bread, an apple with peanut butter or cashew butter, carrot sticks and hummus or fresh fruit and nuts.
