[quote]There are plenty of protein shake mixes out there that use alternative sugars - which affect your glycemic index minimally (stevia is usually the base - try to avoid the ones with fake sugars - aspartame and white sugars) you can add a bit of fruit,[/quote]
Cheryld,
I am trying to get my own protein shake powder formulated and having some confusion on the carbohydrate side of things. In terms of adding some sweetness do you have an ingredient list sorted by sweetness and type of carbo? For example, HFCS (High fructose corn syrup) has the greatest sweetness per volume but also is the most simple carb, mono-saccharide. Regular granulated sugar offers good sweetness but is classified as a di-saccharide. Maltodextrin has less sweetness and is a oligo-saccharide.

There is an index called the DE (Dextrose Equivalent) that is the "sweetness" factor for various carbohydrates.

I saw your mention of stevia and I just came across this yesterday as a sugar substitute and wonder how well this works for you? It seems it might impart its own flavor which some find off putting.

Of other natural sweetness ingredients to mix with protein powder to lift the sweetness factor, what else do you suggest?

don