Exploring Specialized Food for Diabetes Management

Effective and practical non-drug therapies are crucial for managing diabetes effectively. Of these, nutrition therapy is a top priority. One of the effective ways to manage diabetes through nutrition is by incorporating diabetes-specific nutrition formulas (DSNFs).

DSNFs in Type 2 Diabetes Nutrition

A diabetes nutrition plan can consist of meal replacements which are designed specifically for diabetes patients. These diabetes-specific formulas deliver an optimal combination of macronutrients, complex carbohydrates, and micronutrients for metabolic health. In this article we will discuss how the integration of DSNFs in a nutrition plan for diabetes can be a convenient and effective solution.¹

It is estimated by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) that there will be 643 million people living with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in 2030, reaching a total of 783 million in 2045.² This trend in T2D is due to sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy eating habits, and hereditary factors. Most worrying is that T2D significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease—the leading cause of death worldwide—and leads to complications such as nephropathy, neuropathy, and retinopathy.^2-5

With this upward trend in T2D prevalence, finding better ways to manage blood sugar is more important than ever. Let’s find out how DSNFs can offer a better solution than standard nutrition formulas.

DSNFs vs. Standard Nutrition Formulas

DSNFs are designed with diabetes patient needs in mind. They contain low glycemic index (GI) complex carbohydrates, monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), and high-quality protein. Additionally, DSNFs contain soluble fiber and essential micronutrients such as vitamin D, vitamin B6, and zinc.¹

DSNFs in Diabetes Nutrition Guidelines

DSNFs’ nutritional content is aligned with clinical guidelines for diabetes diets. Clinical practice guidelines, including the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology, the American Diabetes Association (ADA), Diabetes Canada, and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD), emphasize the importance of medical nutrition therapy (MNT) in managing T2D. These guidelines recommend a low GI diet that is high in fiber (14g per 1000 kcal) and rich in MUFA.6,7 DSNFs match these recommendations for diabetes patients.

Protein Intake and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Additionally, intake of proteins is a key macronutrient for patients who have T2D. A frequently asked question is: What is the recommended protein intake for patients with T2D and CKD? The ADA 2025 suggests appropriate intake of proteins depending on an individual's status of CKD.

-For non–dialysis-dependent stage G3 and greater CKD, intake of proteins should be restricted to 0.8 g/kg per day, which is the same as for the general population.

-For patients on dialysis, however, a higher amount of proteins is required, which is 1.0–1.2 g/kg/day, as in such cases, a major issue is protein-energy wasting (PEW).⁸

DSNF Clinical Evidence in Diabetes Nutrition

First, in terms of short-term glycemic control, studies have shown splitting intake of DSNF in two meals improves postprandial glucose response (PPH) regulation.⁹ Comparative trials further demonstrate that DSNFs are superior to standard meals, such as oat meal, or milk and cornflakes, in terms of PPH.¹⁰ Beyond short term glycemic benefit, DSNFs have a role in regulation of GLP-1 hormones and appetite.^11,12 Meta-analyses and systemic reviews confirm that DSNFs result in a reduction in requirements for insulin, and favorable metabolic markers, such as improved fasting levels of blood glucose and of HbA1c over time.^13,14 Additionally, DSNFs have been shown in a wide variety of studies to be well tolerated, with minimal adverse events.¹

Nutrition Plan for Diabetes with DSNFs

How to use DSNFs in practice?

The Transcultural Diabetes Nutrition Algorithm (tDNA) offers a structured approach for incorporating DSNFs into T2D care based on patient characteristics. The following algorithm has been developed based on clinical evidence and expert consensus to optimize the use of DSNFs in T2D dietary management.

The tDNA:

Overweight/Obese Individuals:

• 2–3 DSNFs per day as meal or snack replacements in a calorie-controlled plan.
• Calorie goals:
  • <250 lbs: 1200–1500 calories/day.
  • 250 lbs: 1500–1800 calories/day.

Normal Weight Individuals:

• For uncontrolled diabetes (HbA1c > 7%): 1–2 DSNFs per day.
• For controlled diabetes (HbA1c < 7%): Use DSNFs as needed based on clinical judgment.

Underweight Individuals:

• 1–3 DSNFs per day as supplements to promote weight gain.¹⁵

Conclusion

DSNFs are evidence-based nutrition for diabetes that can support glycemic control and weight management. At the same time, tDNA offers an effective guide for incorporating DSNFs in individualized nutrition care, enabling practitioners to best meet T2D patient outcomes.