Protein helps keep blood sugars steady and provides the energy you need to power through your busy days as a mom with diabetes. It is also key for building and repairing tissues in your muscles, organs, skin, hair, and nails. Protein shakes are a quick and easy way to get protein in on the go, but sometimes those thick, heavy drinks are not what we are craving. That’s where clear protein drinks, also called protein water, come in.
I had never tried clear protein or protein water before, so I did some research of my own to see if they lived up to the hype. What I found was, not only do these refreshing beverages offer a convenient and delicious way to boost your protein intake, they are also a great way to help you stay hydrated and manage your blood sugar. Whether you’re managing prediabetes, gestational diabetes, or type 1 or 2 diabetes, clear protein drinks are a fantastic addition to your daily routine.
Read on to learn more about their benefits, what to look for, and a list of the best clear protein drinks.
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The Importance of Protein
Protein acts like a blood sugar stabilizer, helping prevent that dreaded blood sugar roller coaster that can leave you feeling exhausted. It also helps you feel fuller for longer, which can greatly help prevent becoming hangry.
Protein provides a sustained energy source to help you power through your day. Plus, it’s key for building and maintaining strength and healthy muscles, which is crucial when constantly carrying around kids, groceries, endless snacks, diabetes supplies, and everything else we need to lug around with us every day!
What is Clear Protein?
While there is no need to ditch your traditional protein shakes and protein powders, clear protein drinks offer unique benefits.
Clear protein is a water-soluble protein that dissolves almost clear when mixed with water. It is usually made from whey, collagen, or vegan protein. Clear protein can be mixed with water or added to other beverages like smoothies.
Clear protein is made from protein isolate, which contains a high percentage of pure protein and is low in fat and carbs. It has a clear, refreshing consistency compared to regular whey protein, which has more of a milky, creamy texture.
One of the most common types of clear protein is clear whey protein. Clear whey protein has a complete amino acid profile, which means it provides all of the important amino acids that your body cannot produce on its own. Clear whey is also lower in lactose when compared to other forms of whey. Less lactose means it’s a better option for those who are lactose intolerant.
Although there are many benefits, clear protein may not be the best choice for those who are looking to bulk up and are looking for more calories, carbs, and fat in their diet. Clear protein should be mixed with water, so if you prefer milk-based protein drinks, you may want to stick to traditional protein powders.
Benefits of Clear Protein Drinks
Clear protein drinks are a game-changer, especially for moms with diabetes. Think of them as a lighter, more refreshing alternative to those thick, milky protein shakes because they use water as the base instead of milk or a milk alternative. This results in a product that is thinner in texture and often has fewer calories and less added sugar than a traditional protein shake.
Clear protein drinks come in many flavor varieties, and some also contain electrolytes, which can help you stay hydrated – something that’s extra important when you have diabetes.
Below are a few additional benefits of clear protein drinks and protein water:
- Easy on the stomach: Clear protein has a high digestibility score, which means it will be absorbed into your system quickly. The lactose concentration is lower than in regular protein powder, making it a better option for those with lactose intolerance.
- Refreshing and tastes great: Ideal for those who prefer a lighter, fruitier option. Clear protein’s clear, juice-like texture makes it more refreshing and hydrating than traditional creamy protein shakes.
- Often lower in calories, carbs, and fat: This makes it a good choice for those watching their blood sugars or trying to lose weight.
- Quick to absorb: The liquid consistency of clear protein means that the amino acids absorb quickly into your bloodstream, which is ideal for post-workout recovery.
Choosing the Right Clear Protein Drink
With so many options on the market, how do you know which one to choose? Make sure to take a look at a few items on the label to help make the best decision for you, including:
- Sugar Content: Opt for low-sugar or sugar-free options, using natural sweeteners if possible.
- Protein Source: Look for high-quality protein like whey protein isolate, hydrolyzed collagen, or plant-based options.
- Carbohydrates: Consider the total carb count and aim for clear protein drinks with lower carbs.
- Added Ingredients: Check for artificial sweeteners, colors, and flavors.
Incorporating Clear Protein Drinks into Your Routine
Just like traditional protein drinks, clear protein drinks are great to have on hand between meals as a snack to curb cravings and keep blood sugar levels steady. They can help with muscle recovery and replenish electrolytes after a workout. You can also add clear protein to smoothies or enjoy alongside a light breakfast.
Many are available pre-mixed, which is convenient for busy schedules and travel. You can also buy clear protein powder and easily mix it with water.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Clear Protein Drinks
Let’s be honest – even the most delicious protein shake can get boring if you drink it over and over. Clear protein is versatile and can be used in various different types of recipes and drinks. Below are some ideas to keep your clear protein drinks from getting boring:
- Flavor it Up: Experiment with adding fresh fruit, herbs, or spices.
- Make it bubbly: Add sparkling water for a refreshing twist.
- Chill it: Serve over ice with a squeeze of lemon or lime.
- Protein popsicles: Freeze for a healthy and cooling treat. These disposable popsicle molds make it super easy to make blood sugar-friendly popsicles!
- Protein Slushies: I have been eyeing the Ninja Slushie Machine for a few months – maybe now is the time to pull the trigger!
- Fun Mocktails: Use a clear protein drink as your base for a sugar-free mocktail.
Best Clear Protein Drinks
So, now that you have read this far, are you convinced you need to try clear protein drinks? Here are a few of the best clear protein drinks and protein water options available:
Clear protein powder
- Seeq Clear Protein Powder – Sweetened with Sucralose
- Isopure Clear Whey Protein Powder – Sweetened with Stevia Leaf Extract
Ready to drink protein water
- Clean Simple Eats Clear Protein Drinks – Sweetened with Stevia Leaf Extract
- Protein2o – Sweetened with Erythritol and Stevia Leaf Extract
- Ready Protein Water – Sweetened with Stevia Leaf Extract and Monk Fruit Extract
- Celebrate CLR Protein Water – Sweetened with Sucralose
Conclusion
Clear protein drinks can be a fantastic tool for busy moms looking for something different than traditional protein shakes. They have recently become a staple in my diet. They offer a convenient and refreshing way to boost protein intake, build muscle, manage weight, stabilize blood sugar levels, and stay hydrated.
Remember, everyone’s needs are different. Spend some time exploring the variety of clear protein drinks available and find what works best for your taste and lifestyle.
Looking to incorporate more protein in a blood sugar-friendly way? Download our free guide on the best protein bars for diabetes. Make sure to check out our posts about the top protein powders and the best protein shakes as well!