A balanced and regular diet is necessary for the management of diabetes. However, this can be difficult to accomplish for seniors, especially as they try to navigate other health issues, shifting tastes, and the challenges of meal preparation. The good news is that with skilled nursing care by their side, they have the support needed to help them maintain stable blood sugar levels and overall health by adhering to a diabetes-friendly diet.
What Are the Fundamentals of a Diabetes-Friendly Diet?
The goal of a diabetes-friendly diet is to balance macronutrients and include meals high in nutrients to help lower blood sugar levels. Important elements consist of:
- Carbohydrates: Skilled nursing care can help seniors understand the benefits of foods like legumes, veggies, and whole grains. These foods are carbohydrates and help slow down the absorption of sugar.
- Proteins: Proteins help seniors sustain energy levels and muscle mass. When creating meal plans, they should focus on fish, poultry, beans, and tofu.
- Fats: Seniors might think they need to shy away from fats, but heart health can be supported by healthy fats like those found in avocados, almonds, and olive oil.
Creating a Well-Balanced Meal Plan
Making a meal plan for seniors can help ensure that they are getting a healthy balance of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. However, it’s not just about making a meal plan; it’s about educating seniors along the way.
Skilled nursing care can work with them to help them understand why certain foods might be chosen over others. For instance, seniors can learn about how fiber helps control blood sugar levels, which explains why they should focus on adding fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to their meal plan. They can also benefit from learning about how healthy snacking can help reduce hunger without raising blood pressure.
Pay Attention to Portion Sizes
Controlling portion sizes is crucial for seniors with diabetes, as eating too much can raise blood sugar levels. Skilled nursing care can teach them about portion sizes and how to use tools like food scales or even measuring cups to ensure they’re making the right portion choices.
Hydration Matters
A diabetes-friendly diet can be supported by maintaining hydration, which is essential for seniors in general, not just those diagnosed with diabetes. Skilled nursing care can encourage seniors to stay hydrated throughout the day, as well as introduce them to foods high in water content to help them maintain their hydration levels. Also, they can provide seniors with valuable tips about how sugary drinks might raise their blood sugar levels.
Reading Nutrition Labels
Seniors will be more inclined to follow a diabetes-friendly diet if they feel in control. They can gain control by learning how to read nutrition labels.
Some of the things skilled nursing care can teach them to watch out for include the following:
- Low Sugar Content: Seniors should steer clear of foods with a lot of added sugar.
- High Fiber Content: As mentioned, seniors should choose foods that have more fiber to help with blood sugar regulation.
- Low Salt Content: Cutting back on sodium is essential for many seniors, but especially those diagnosed with diabetes. Doing so will help them control their blood pressure.
Maintaining a diabetes-friendly diet can make a big difference in seniors’ quality of life. Skilled nursing care can help them successfully manage their diabetes by providing support and education.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Skilled Nursing Care in Lemont, IL, please contact the caring staff at Platinum Home Health Care, Inc. today at (708) 995-7758.
Platinum Home Health Care, Inc. is a top provider of professional medical home health care services in Chicago, Orland Park, Tinley Park, Lemont, New Lenox, Oak Lawn, Frankfort, Mokena, Chicago Ridge, Homer Glen, Boone County, Cook County, DuPage County, Kane County, Lake County, McHenry County, Will County, and Winnebago County and surrounding areas.
Sources:
- https://www.ncoa.org/article/why-its-important-to-eat-healthy-when-you-have-diabetes
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes-diet/art-20044295
- https://www.lifeline.com/blog/proper-diet-for-seniors-with-diabetes/
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