5 Healthy Eating Tips for Seniors with Diabetes

According to the American Diabetes Association, 16.5 million seniors, or 29.2%, have diagnosed or undiagnosed diabetes. These older adults must eat well-balanced diets to live long and healthy lives.

Eating well helps seniors better manage their diabetes symptoms and supports their overall health.

5 Eating Tips for Bartlesville Seniors with Diabetes

Use these five simple tips to improve your diet, manage your diabetes, and feel your best. You can also learn more about eating well with diabetes from the National Council on Aging.

1. Control Carbs

Carb control is vital for both type 1 and 2 diabetes, as it can increase blood sugar levels. Lean proteins, such as fish and beans, and whole grains can slow the release of sugar into your bloodstream, helping control your diabetes.

2. Add More Healthy Foods to Your Shopping List

Several types of foods can help older adults better manage their diabetes. Add these nutritional foods to your grocery list:

• Fresh, colorful fruits and veggies
• Poultry, fish, and beans
• Foods with healthy fats, including nuts, olives, and avocados
• Whole grains
• High-fiber foods, including oats, legumes, and quinoa

Need help with meal planning and preparation? The knowledgeable in-home caregivers at Visiting Angels of Bartlesville, OK, can assist you with both!

3. Know What Foods to Avoid

As important as eating the right foods, diabetic seniors must know what foods to avoid. The top foods older adults with diabetes should steer clear from are:

• Saturated and trans fats
• Sugary snacks and sodas
• Foods that are high in cholesterol
• Alcohol

4. Take Care of Your Heart

Seniors with diabetes are more prone to heart conditions because high blood sugar can impact their blood vessels. As such, older adults should make heart health a priority. Consuming foods low in sugar, sodium, and salt supports a healthy heart.

Some of the best foods for your heart include:

• Leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, and Romaine lettuce
• Whole grains, like brown rice and oatmeal
• Fresh fruits like oranges, pears, prunes, grapes, and bananas

5. Educate Yourself

In addition to eating properly and staying active, seniors should also educate themselves on diabetes. If you think you have diabetes, it’s crucial to get tested. Some of the top diabetes symptoms are:

• Extreme fatigue
• Blurry vision
• Feeling very hungry or thirsty
• Slow healing
• Pain, tingling, or numbness in your hands and feet

We Can Help Diabetic Seniors at Home

Do you have diabetes and need help cooking nutritious meals or maintaining your home and personal hygiene? Contact Visiting Angels of Bartlesville, OK, today at (918) 333-7400.