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Meal Planning Tips for Seniors with Diabetes
Diabetes: Healthy Options and Tips
The American Diabetes Association reports that 25.9% of Americans over the age of 65 have diabetes. Caregiving for a senior with this disease requires proactive meal planning. (diabetes.org)
Commonly known for its effects on glucose (blood sugar) levels, diabetes is a disease many seniors live with. Type II diabetes is more common among seniors. The disease is directly influenced by nutrition. As a result, caregivers and their seniors must plan meals that help keep diabetes under control.
Type I vs Type II Diabetes
Type I
- Primarily affects children and young adults
- Causes the body to make little or no insulin
Type II
- Common and tends to affect older adults
- Causes the body to misuse insulin
- Increases risk of heart disease, nerve damage, and other illnesses
Meal Planning
Timing meals to keep blood sugar levels balanced is no small task. The right meal planing guidance can help you make smart choices that work for your personal daily life and tastes, as well as what is safe for managing diabetes.
- Plan meals with the correct macro nutrients
- Eat healthy meals that are affordable
- Tailor meals to food preferences
Healthy Food Choices for Diabetes
Fortunately, living with Type II Diabetes doesn’t mean seniors can’t eat their favorite foods anymore. Diabetes can often be managed simply by making healthy choices. Portion control and consuming healthy foods like vegetables and lean meat are key.
- Sugar-free foods when possible
- Low sodium alternatives
- Fresh, whole foods
- Whole grains
- Low fat dairy
- Minimal fried foods
Diabetes Meal Planning Methods
The Plate Method
One easy way to plan a healthy diabetes-friendly meal is the plate method. Select a meal that will fill one quarter of the plate with a lean protein, another quarter with a grain or starchy vegetable, and the remaining half of the plate with a non-starchy vegetable.
Carb Counting
Since carbs break down into the glucose that a person with diabetes has trouble regulating, it is best to limit carbs consumed to about 45-60 per meal. Seniors can still enjoy their favorite foods, but are able to choose the right portions with carb counting.
Glycemic Index
Often used along with the carb counting method, planning meals around the glycemic index (GI) can make dietary choices easier. Seniors with diabetes choose from foods that are low on the glycemic GI for two meals per day and may opt for just one high or medium GI food each day.
Quick Meal Planning Tips
Swap For Healthier Alternatives
If a senior loves particular ingredients or foods, plan meals with healthier alternatives. For example, swap sweet potatoes for fries or use sugar free jam instead of jelly.
Keep Meals Simple
Healthy diets rarely require much prep. When meal planning, make it a rule that you cook just one meat, one side, and one vegetable. Whenever possible, simply season it all and then grill or steam.
Develop a Routine
Once you’ve found favored healthy meals, plan to prepare them once a week. A routine will save you the hassle of trying to be creative all the time.
Home Care Tip:
Keep a grocery list of healthy foods on a diabetic senior’s fridge. When you discover a food that isn’t favored, cross it off. Within a few weeks you’ll have a list of preferred diabetic options to work from.
Whether you are looking for a reliable nurse for different medical services, or a professional aide for personal care services, Gulfshore Home Care is here to help. Because every client’s needs and lifestyle are different, our in-home care team will provide services specifically based on your loved one’s condition and circumstances.
We are located in the areas of Naples, Bonita Springs, Estero, and Marco Island. Please do not hesitate to give us a call at 239-249-8318
With our home health care services you will be able to live a happy, safe, and independent life. We invite you read more about us. Every situation is unique, so to have all of your specific questions answered with personalized information from a friendly local home care expert, call 239-249-8318 now!
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