How Seniors Can Enjoy Dessert with Diabetes
When you first learn that an aging family member has diabetes, you might think they have to cut desserts out of their diet forever. But, that’s simply not true. It’s quite possible for someone with diabetes to enjoy desserts in moderation and still keep their blood sugar levels under control.
Home Care Services in Manassas City VA: Diabetics and Desserts
Balancing It All
The key to allowing older adults with diabetes to enjoy desserts is to strike a balance between the foods that they eat. It’s common to think that sugar is the substance you have to worry about, but it’s really the carbohydrates. On days when the diabetic wants a sweet treat, skip other carbohydrates in the meal. For example, eliminate the starchy vegetable in a meal so they can have a small dessert. However, keep in mind that nutritional value is also important. Since desserts don’t contain many nutrients, desserts should be enjoyed only occasionally.
It’s also important to eat desserts in small amounts. For some people, that can be easier said than done. If the older adult has trouble resisting desserts, it might be best to avoid having them in the house. Instead of baking an entire chocolate cake, consider making cupcakes and bringing over just enough for everyone to have one. Another good way to limit serving sizes is to purchase individually packaged desserts.
Dessert Ideas for Diabetics
Not all desserts are created equal, so making smart dessert decisions can make a difference, too. Here are a few dessert ideas that are better for diabetics:
Fruit: The natural sweetness of fruit can help curb sweets cravings. A bowl of berries with a little bit of whipped topping might do the trick. Of course, fruit does contain carbohydrates, but it also has lots of vitamins, minerals, and fibers.
-Sorbet: For a creamy, cool dessert, opt for sorbet instead of ice cream. Sorbet is low in fat or fat-free.
-Sugar-Free Gelatin: Try adding some fruit and whipped topping to the senior’s favorite flavor of sugar-free gelatin.
-Sugar-Free Fudge Pops: If chocolate is a favorite treat, keep some individually wrapped sugar-free fudge pops on hand.
If your older adult family member struggles to manage their blood sugar levels, an elder care provider can help them to stay on track. An elder care provider can help them to plan nutritious meals that follow their diabetes meal plan. They can also help older adults to make good choices for desserts, and ensure they don’t eat sweets too often. Another benefit of elder care for seniors with diabetes is that the elder care provider can remind them to check their blood sugar levels and take medications according to schedule.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring home care services in Manassas City, VA, please contact the caring staff at LivinRite Home Care.
Call Us Today at (703) 634-9991.
Serving Northern Virginia, The Valley, and Surrounding Communities.
Sources
https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/features/healthy-desserts-for-your-diabetes-diet#1
http://www.diabeticlivingonline.com/diabetic-recipes/dessert/7-diabetes-friendly-desserts-you-can-buy-grocery-store?page=0
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