Boost Plus Sugar: The Facts Behind the Label
For individuals seeking to gain or maintain weight, high-calorie nutritional drinks like Boost Plus can be a valuable supplement. However, the energy density of these shakes often comes with a significant amount of sugar. A standard 8-fluid-ounce (237 ml) serving of Boost Plus typically contains 20 to 22 grams of total sugars. A closer look at the nutritional label reveals that a large portion of this is added sugar, which is explicitly listed as 20 grams in recent product information. This amount represents 40% of the daily value for added sugars, based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
It is important for consumers to recognize the difference between naturally occurring sugars and added sugars. While some nutritional drinks may contain natural sugars from ingredients like milk (lactose), the primary source in Boost Plus is typically corn syrup and added sugar. For those monitoring their sugar intake for reasons such as diabetes management, this distinction is crucial. The high sugar content is directly related to the product's purpose: providing a quick source of calories to help with weight gain or supplement inadequate dietary intake.
Who Should Be Mindful of Boost Plus's Sugar Content?
While beneficial for some, the high sugar in Boost Plus is not suitable for every dietary plan. Certain individuals or groups should pay special attention to this aspect:
- People with Diabetes: Since Boost Plus contains a high level of both carbohydrates and added sugar, it can cause a significant spike in blood glucose levels. There are specialized, lower-sugar Boost formulations, like Boost Glucose Control, designed for managing blood sugar.
- Individuals Managing Weight: While the drink is formulated for weight gain, the high added sugar can be a concern for those trying to manage or limit their overall sugar intake. Excess sugar consumption is linked to various health issues beyond weight.
- Those with Specific Dietary Restrictions: For those on a diet specifically limiting added sugars, Boost Plus would likely exceed their daily allowance in a single serving.
Comparing Sugar in Boost Plus to Other Options
To put the sugar content of Boost Plus into perspective, it's helpful to compare it with other popular nutritional drinks, including different products within the Boost lineup and competitors like Ensure. A quick look at product labels reveals significant differences, particularly regarding added sugars.
| Nutritional Drink | Calories (per 8 fl oz) | Protein (grams) | Total Sugar (grams) | Added Sugar (grams) | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boost Plus® | 360 | 14 | 20-22 | 20 | Extra Calories for Weight Gain |
| Boost® High Protein | 240 | 20 | ~15 | - | Higher Protein, Moderate Calories |
| Boost® Max | 150 (per 11 oz) | 30 (per 11 oz) | 1 (per 11 oz) | 1 (per 11 oz) | Very Low Sugar, Very High Protein |
| Ensure® Plus | 350 | 13 | ~22 | - | Standard High-Calorie Option |
This comparison highlights that not all nutritional shakes are the same, especially when it comes to sugar. For instance, Boost Max offers significantly higher protein with almost no sugar, appealing to a different nutritional goal than Boost Plus.
Practical Tips for Managing Your Sugar Intake
If you need a nutritional supplement but are concerned about sugar, consider these practical steps:
- Review Your Goals: Are you using the drink for weight gain, or to supplement a regular diet? If your goal isn't high-calorie intake, a lower-sugar alternative might be more appropriate.
- Read the Labels Carefully: Look for both total sugar and, most importantly, added sugar on the nutrition facts panel. This gives you the most accurate information about the product's sugar profile.
- Consider Other Boost Varieties: If Boost Plus is too high in sugar, look at the other options in the Boost family, such as Boost Max or Boost Glucose Control.
- Incorporate Whole Foods: A well-rounded diet with whole foods can often provide better nutrition with less added sugar. A consultation with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian can help create a personalized plan. For example, a glass of milk with a scoop of protein powder and a piece of fruit could offer similar calories and nutrients with less added sugar.
- Consult a Professional: A dietitian can help determine if a nutritional drink is truly necessary for your specific needs, and if so, which one is the most appropriate. The American Diabetes Association, for example, notes that supplements for diabetes management are not recommended without a proven deficiency.
Conclusion
While Boost Plus is a convenient, nutrient-dense option for those needing extra calories and protein, it contains a high amount of added sugar. A single 8-ounce serving typically delivers 20-22 grams of total sugar, with approximately 20 grams from added sources. This makes it a product that should be chosen carefully and intentionally, especially by individuals monitoring blood sugar levels. Fortunately, other Boost varieties exist with significantly less sugar for different dietary needs. By reading nutrition labels and considering your personal health goals, you can make an informed decision about whether Boost Plus fits into your nutrition diet. For further information and expert advice, consider consulting the Harvard Health Ad Watch on nutritional drinks.
