Glucerna is a nutritional supplement designed for people with diabetes. It contains slow-digesting carbohydrates that help maintain stable blood sugar levels after meals and reduce glucose spikes throughout the day.

This supplement is also high in protein and low in calories, helping to control hunger and support weight management.

Glucerna should only be used under the supervision of an endocrinologist or registered dietitian. It is not intended to replace a full meal. It comes in both ready-to-mix powder and ready-to-drink liquid forms, available in flavors such as strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate.

Indications for use

Glucerna is recommended to:

Help maintain normal blood sugar levels after meals;
Reduce blood sugar spikes throughout the day;
Decrease hunger and promote lower food intake during the day;
Support healthy digestion, as it is a good source of fiber;
Strengthen the immune system, as it provides 25 essential vitamins and minerals with antioxidant properties.

This supplement can also be used by people with gluten or lactose intolerance, as it does not contain these ingredients.

Glucerna should be used as part of a balanced diabetes-friendly diet and combined with regular physical activity, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Formulations and instructions

The way to use Glucerna depends on its formulation:

1. Glucerna Hunger Smart Powder

Glucerna Hunger Smart Powder is available in ready-to-mix tubs. To prepare one serving (about 8 fl oz / 237 mL):

Pour 8 fl oz of cold water into a glass;
Add one serving of Glucerna Hunger Smart Powder (approximately 52 g, or as directed on the label);
Stir or shake until the powder is completely dissolved;
Refrigerate for a few minutes before drinking, if desired.

The recommended daily amount should be determined by a doctor or registered dietitian.

Store the powder at room temperature and use within three weeks of opening. Once prepared, the drink should be kept refrigerated until consumed.

2. Glucerna ready-to-drink shakes

Glucerna is also available as ready-to-drink shakes, including:

Glucerna Original Shakes (8 fl oz / 237 mL bottles);
Glucerna Hunger Smart Shakes (10 fl oz and 16 fl oz bottles);
Glucerna Protein Smart Shakes (11 fl oz bottles).

Shake well before use. These products can be stored at room temperature before opening. Once opened, any remaining product should be refrigerated and consumed within 24 hours.

Side effects

Glucerna is generally well tolerated. However, in some cases, it may cause mild side effects such as:

Diarrhea;
Excess gas;
Bloating.

Contraindications to use

Glucerna should not be used as a replacement for regular meals, but rather as a dietary supplement.

It should not be administered intravenously or through parenteral feeding tubes. It is also not recommended for people with galactosemia.

Glucerna: Indications for Use, Instructions & Side Effects