Here is the startling truth. Look around a room out of older Americans. Statistically, over 25% of those 65 or older have diabetes. It is the seventh most common cause of death in the United States. If your dad has diabetes, he’s not alone.
Diet and exercise are key to reducing the risks that come with diabetes. If your dad learns to avoid certain foods, exercise at least 30 minutes per day, sees his doctors regularly, and get excess weight off, his longevity doesn’t have to be impacted.
When it comes to his diet, he needs to focus on what he needs to eat and what he needs to avoid. If he’s not big on cooking meals and prefers takeout, he’s going to have to change that habit. Here are the foods he needs to stop eating.
Low-Quality Grains
The pillowy soft Wonder bread of his past is a strong no now that he has diabetes. Refined white flour, white rice, and the standard enriched pasta stores sell are all best avoided. He needs whole grains like whole barley, quinoa, and farro.
Sweetened Foods
If it’s sweetened with sugar, corn syrup, honey, brown sugar, or any other sugary item, he needs to pass. Sweetened or frosted breakfast cereals, sugary juices and sodas, flavored yogurts, and baked goods are all out. He needs to drop the granola bars, toaster pastries, and ice creams, even if they’re sweetened with natural things like maple syrup or agave nectar.
Deli Meats
Many deli meats are cured with sugar, honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar. Ham, turkey, and chicken are all items that may have been brined in sugary liquids. If he really needs a sandwich, roast a turkey or chicken that hasn’t been brined or been injected with a sodium and sugar solution.
Alcoholic Beverages
It’s a good time to give up drinking. Beer, wine, and liquors are all going to impact his blood sugar levels. If he’s having a really hard time giving up his nightly beer, check for some of the newer hop seltzers that are completely free of sugar. They have the beer taste thanks to the hops and brewer’s yeast, but they lack any carbs or calories.
It’s a Good Time to Ask if He Could Use Help
Elder care services can help your dad manage his diabetes. Caregivers help by cooking meals, taking your dad shopping for groceries, and supervising what he puts in the cart. Back at home, they can remind him to check his blood sugar, schedule appointments with his doctors, and drive him to those appointments. Call to learn more about other ways elder care services can help.
If you or an aging loved one is considering elder care in Castle Rock, CO, please contact the caring staff at SYNERGY HomeCare today at 303-953-9924.
