Meal Replacement Shakes and Nutrition Bars: Do They Help Individuals With Diabetes Lose Weight?

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes is a significant heath concern in the United States. Approximately 95% of people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes.1 The majority of people with type 2 diabetes are overweight or obese. Weight loss has been established as an important therapeutic goal for overweight or obese patients with diabetes. Meal replacement shakes and nutrition bars are simple and effective weight loss tools for overweight or obese people with diabetes. These products have shown advantages over self-selective weight loss diets. This article outlines some of the advantages of using meal replacement shakes and nutrition bars as weight loss tools. In addition, it offers a brief review of the literature on the use of these products in overweight and obese people with type 2 diabetes.1 The National Weight Control Registry (NWCR) is a program tracking > 10,000 individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight and kept it off for at least 1 year. The NWCR identifies and investigates the characteristics of individuals who have succeeded at long-term weight loss. Obesity researchers track the lifestyle habits of successful weight losers and the behavioral strategies they use to maintain their weight.2 Behavioral strategy tools are important to help participants stay motivated and on a successful path to weight loss and maintenance. Food diaries, pedometers, smaller dinner plates, and meal replacement shakes and nutrition bars are examples of weight loss tools.2 Meal replacement shakes and nutrition bars provide a mixture of protein, carbohydrate, and fat, along with added vitamins and minerals. The shakes come in liquid ready-to-drink or powder formulas that require mixing. They are designed to mimic a low-calorie meal or snack and to be easy and quick to consume. Meal replacement shakes and nutrition bars have grown in popularity and variety in recent years and …