Glucerna: Smart Nutrition for People with Diabetes

Globally, the prevalence of diabetes for all age groups worldwide is projected to rise from 177 million to 370 million by 2030 (World Health Organization, 2005). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 20.8 million people in the United States alone have been diagnosed with diabetes – and another 14.6 million people remain undiagnosed.

Abbott recognizes that diabetes is a growing epidemic, as are the number of health concerns associated with this condition. As a leader in nutrition products for decades, we pioneered a diabetes-specific formula, Glucerna®, formulated specially for patients with abnormal glucose tolerance.

Less than 10 years later, we launched Glucerna shakes and bars to help smooth blood glucose sugar response after meals, a key component of overall glycemic control. In 2001, we introduced Glucerna SR (Slow Release) to the international market.

Making the right food choices every day is one of the biggest challenges faced by people with diabetes. While they know their food choices have to be "diabetes-friendly" (as well as calorie and portion controlled), in order to help manage their blood sugar response, people with diabetes still demand convenient foods that taste great.

Clinically Proven to Help Minimize Blood Sugar Spikes

The key to Glucerna products is their clinically proven, unique blends of slowly digested carbohydrates to help minimize blood sugar spikes. Some Glucerna products blend Fibersol – to slow glucose absorption – and Fructose – to help promote removal of glucose from the blood through activation of glucokinase, a liver enzyme. Research indicates that consistently maintaining optimal blood sugar levels over time can help reduce the complications of diabetes.

We expanded our innovative science of blood glucose control and developed Glucerna Select, a high-protein medical food with the unique carbohydrate blend, FOS (fructooligosaccharides), and fiber for enhanced glycemic control. Clinical evidence shows Glucerna Select produces a significantly lower after-meal glucose response than standard nutritional products and enables patients to achieve this result using less of their own body's insulin.

Glucerna products are for use under medical supervision as part of a diabetes meal plan.

Continuing Innovation in Diabetes Nutrition

As part of our ongoing commitment to be at the forefront of diabetes care, our research scientists developed a number of innovative products, including breakfast cereal formulated specifically for people with diabetes; improved shakes that now come in recloseable plastic bottles; and a new line of snack shakes and mini-snack bars which provide in-between meal options that help manage blood sugar spikes.