It’s that time of year again! Holiday treats are everywhere, but not all holiday treats are safe for diabetic seniors. If your senior parent has diabetes then you may have to make sure that they aren’t indulging in too much holiday cheer.
Cookies, cakes, candy, and other sweets are everywhere during the holiday season. And often people will give boxes of candy, tins full of cookies, and other sugary treats as gifts to seniors. But seniors who have diabetes can’t have all that extra sugar.
If your mom or dad has diabetes, it’s a good idea for them to have senior home care during the holidays. A senior home care provider can make sure that your mom or dad isn’t eating too much sugar by eating too many holiday sweets. A senior home care provider can also make sure that your mom or dad has plenty of diabetic-friendly treats in the house for the holidays like these:
Dark Chocolate-Covered Almonds
Dark chocolate-covered almonds are a tasty and healthy treat. Choose dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa, as it has less sugar and more antioxidants. Almonds provide healthy fats and protein, which help balance blood sugar levels.
Your mom or dad can even make these at home with some help from a senior home care provider. In fact, your mom or dad may want to make these treats as gifts for family members. They’re sweet, crunchy, and satisfying without spiking blood sugar.
Baked Apples with Cinnamon
Baked apples are a warm and comforting holiday dessert. Use naturally sweet apples like Gala or Fuji. Slice them, sprinkle with cinnamon, and bake until soft. You can add a touch of sugar-free maple syrup or a few chopped nuts for extra flavor. This treat is rich in fiber, which helps regulate blood sugar.
Sugar-Free Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin pie is a holiday classic, and it can be made diabetic-friendly. Use a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit in the filling. Also, choose a whole-grain or almond flour crust to reduce carbohydrates. Pumpkin is packed with vitamins and has a low glycemic index, making it a great option for seniors with diabetes. Serve with a dollop of sugar-free whipped cream for an extra treat.
Greek Yogurt Parfaits
Greek yogurt parfaits are an easy and festive dessert. Use plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt, which is low in sugar and high in protein. Layer it with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for natural sweetness.
Add a sprinkle of crushed nuts or sugar-free granola for crunch. These parfaits are colorful, delicious, and perfect for a holiday gathering.
Homemade Spiced Nuts
Spiced nuts are a savory and slightly sweet treat that’s perfect for the holidays. Use almonds, walnuts, or pecans, and coat them lightly with a mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a sugar-free sweetener. Roast them in the oven until golden brown.
These nuts are full of healthy fats and protein, which make them a great snack for managing blood sugar levels. They’re also easy to package as a thoughtful holiday gift.
Coconut Flour Cookies
Your mom or dad doesn’t have to give up the delicious holiday cookies they love. Using coconut flour instead of regular flour to reduce carbs means that your senior parent can still have holiday cookies. Sweeten the dough with a sugar substitute like erythritol or allulose. Add sugar-free chocolate chips or nuts for flavor.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Senior Home Care Assistance in Ashburn, VA, please contact the caring staff at Access Home Care Inc today! Call (703) 765-9350
Access Home Care provider in Arlington, Alexandria, Leesburg, Reston, Herndon, Manassas, Ashburn, Falls Church, McLean, Lorton, Springfield, Woodbridge, Fairfax, Virginia and the surrounding communities.
“My desire to enter into nursing started when one of my older sisters died of kidney disease due to lack of care. At age 15, I decided to enter into nursing so that I could provide quality care to patients.Upon arrival in United States at 21 years of age, I enrolled in T.C Willliams School of Practical Nursing while working as a nursing assistant at a nursing home. I also worked as a part-time home health aide to take of the elderly. After completion of my practical nurse education, I worked in geriatric psychiatry unit at Dominion Hospital and Arlington Correctional facility mental health unit.
I completed Marymount University in 2001 and entered into Home Care as a field case manager.
I held that position for 2 years and as an Administrator, and for another 2 years until Access Home Care was found in 2004."
Today, Access Home Care has over 300 employees and 286 clients.
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