When it comes to planning meals and creating grocery lists, families that include members living with type 2 diabetes face unique challenges. While their dietary considerations may be different than everyone else in the family, there are still plenty of ways to ensure delicious –and heart-healthy–meals for all involved. Seniors and their loved ones can take advantage of various strategies when managing eating plans for those in the home with type 2 diabetes. Here are some helpful tips, courtesy of Senior Helpers Grosse Pointe!
Planning Menus and Grocery Lists
With the right planning, tasty meals that adhere to a type 2 diabetes diet can be achieved and enjoyed! Meal planning doesn't have to occur all at once. Instead, try making food plans for one or two days out of the week ahead of time. This makes it easier for grocery shopping, which will ultimately save time on rushed trips to the store. Be sure when menu planning that consideration is made for possible substitutions in case dietary changes are needed later on.
For these grocery lists, consider taking detailed notes of all items that need to be purchased each trip and organize them into categories (dairy products, proteins/meats, frozen foods, etc.). Doing this allows senior family members living with type 2 diabetes the opportunity to cross-check items against their list while they shop.
Foods to Avoid When Shopping for Diabetics
When shopping for a type 2 diabetic, it is important to know what foods should be avoided. Diabetics must watch the number of carbohydrates they consume each day; this includes not only sugars and baked goods but also starchy items such as potatoes and rice. To help curb cravings in replacement of these sweet or starchy items, opt for naturally sweet items like fruits or vegetables high in fiber. Additionally, avoid buying processed meats that are filled with saturated fats which can deteriorate an individual's health over time.
Shopping Strategies
When shopping for type 2 diabetics, seniors and their caregivers should look for healthy swaps that still satisfy cravings. Reading the nutrition labels on both processed and packaged foods is an ideal way to check ingredients and healthier alternatives can be used when available. For example, instead of white bread–which is considered a "simple carbohydrate"–– opt for whole grain or rye flour as more complex carbohydrates will not raise blood sugar levels as quickly. Additionally, rather than purchasing meats that are high in fat content, swap in leaner proteins such as fish or poultry (making sure there isn't hidden sodium).
Senior Helpers Supports Healthy Lifestyles
With the right planning and understanding of what to buy and what to avoid, making grocery lists for diabetics does not have to be a daunting task. Seniors and their caregivers can take advantage of strategies when going to the store in order to ensure individuals stay heart-healthy while still being satisfied with food cravings. If you are looking for premium senior care services in the Sterling Heights, Grosse Pointe, Clinton Township, Macomb County, and Roseville areas, contact Senior Helpers today!