Controlling blood glucose

Prepared Foods, March, 1999 by Lynn Dornblaser

We've seen some products on the market aimed at diabetics, but they tend to be sugar-free candies or sweet snacks. Now comes a nutrition bar from Ensure that provides "complete, balanced nutrition" for people with diabetes. Ensure Glucerna bars are designed to help regulate blood glucose levels. The manufacturer, Ross Products div. of Abbott Labs, says the bar delays carbohydrate absorption into the bloodstream via the ingredient guar gum.

The ability to control blood glucose levels for diabetics is essential. It can help minimize the risk of diabetes-related health complications, such as blindness, kidney and heart disease and nervous system damage.

The product allows diabetics to enjoy a good-tasting granola bar-like product without the high amounts of sugar often associated with those products. Varieties include Chocolate Graham and Lemon Crunch.