The holidays can feel like a nightmare when you or a senior loved one has diabetes. Sugary treats are definitely delicious but there might be some family members who can't enjoy them due to health concerns. Baking diabetes-friendly treats can be a bit out of the way when it comes to holiday dinners, so is there anything you can purchase to satisfy the sweet cravings of those elderly loved ones who can't have a lot of sugar?
Diabetes-Friendly Alternatives
When looking for diabetes-friendly alternatives to holiday treats, your local shops or bakeries are great places to go.
Sugar-Free Treats
Sugar-free candy is a popular treat among those living with diabetes. Many stores carry sugar-free versions of most sweets, such as peanut butter cups, chocolate, or cookies. So, if you need to find something sweet without the sugar and don't feel like cooking, try heading over to your local supermarket to pick up a few packages of sugar-free treats.
HighKey Treats
HighKey is a relatively new brand of treats marketed toward those on the keto diet, but they're perfect for seniors with diabetes or any health condition that doesn't allow them to have a lot of sugar. This brand recently came out with holiday flavors too, such as the Ginger Spice Mini Cookies and Peppermint Chocolate Mini Cookies.
Bakery Items
Many supermarket bakeries carry a few sugar-free versions of popular cakes and/or pies. You'll likely be able to pick up a sugar-free pumpkin pie or chocolate cake from your local bakery to have at your holiday dinner. You might want to order your pastries ahead of time. Remember, it's not just you who want to get these healthy treats.
Russell Stover
Almost everyone loves chocolate and Russell Stover is a famous chocolate brand. Since it's so popular, the brand tries very hard to cater all who loves chocolate, Russel Stover features several types of sugar-free chocolates for those who want them, including those elderly who have food restrictions! You can have these chocolates as desserts for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, or you can send them as gifts to elderly friends and family members.
Low-Sugar Cookies
Not every diabetic person has to avoid sugar entirely, but they do have to be careful. Nowadays there are tons of low or no-sugar brands that cater to people with dietary restrictions or those looking to live a healthier lifestyle. Brands like Simple Mills and Partake provide a better option for cookies, cakes, and more.
What to Avoid
It can be hard to avoid delicious treats during the holidays, especially ones that are full of sugar. There are some other holiday staples that should be avoided too, such as mashed potatoes or stuffing because they have too many carbs. Overall, moderation is key during the holidays. Seniors may be able to enjoy a small amount of certain dishes with a lot of carbs, but too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. It's better to stick to low-carb dishes and sugar-free treats when a senior has diabetes!
Enjoy the Holidays with Senior Helpers in Greater Knoxville
If you or a loved one is in need of at-home care in Greater Knoxville, consider contacting Senior Helpers in Greater Knoxville. We can provide companionship for you or your elderly loved one, help with daily chores and hobbies, and run errands. The holidays can be a hassle, especially when one has diabetes, but we hope to relieve some of the stress by helping with at-home care. Call us today if you reside in Knoxville, Maryville, Clinton, or Loudon and desire our services!