{"id":2472,"date":"2018-05-17T09:15:29","date_gmt":"2018-05-17T13:15:29","guid":{"rendered":"\/?p=2472"},"modified":"2018-05-16T23:53:10","modified_gmt":"2018-05-17T03:53:10","slug":"senior-care-arlington-va-why-are-snacks-important-for-diabetic-seniors","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"\/senior-care-arlington-va-why-are-snacks-important-for-diabetic-seniors\/","title":{"rendered":"Why are Snacks Important for Diabetic Seniors?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Most people just think of snacks as something to calm a grumbling tummy, serve to children at preschool or to have when one is bored.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

However, snacks are a key part of successfully managing diabetes, especially in the elderly. Family caregivers that are responsible for an aging loved one with diabetes must learn about the advantages of healthy snacks as part of their elderly relative\u2019s diet and how successful snacking can actually help them stay healthy and energetic.<\/p>\n

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Senior Care in Arlington VA: Snacks for Diabetic Seniors<\/p><\/div>\n

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Diabetes and Seniors<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Elderly adults have a high risk of developing diabetes especially if they have a lifetime of poor eating habits and a family history of the disease. Other risk factors include a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and age. In fact, 1 in 4 elderly Americans over the age of 60 have developed diabetes. It occurs when the body no longer produces insulin to control blood glucose levels. Diet, exercise, and medication are the only ways to control it.<\/p>\n

If diabetes is not properly treated, it can lead to serious health problems. These include high blood pressure, kidney disease, heart disease, blindness, circulation complications and in some cases, a coma. The best hope for elderly adults with diabetes is to develop a healthy lifestyle that includes diabetes-friendly snacks that keep blood glucose levels stable.<\/p>\n

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Diabetes-Friendly Snacks<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

When it comes to diabetes-friendly snacks, not just any food will do. Medical experts recommend snacks that are high in protein and fiber and low in sodium and sugar. Seniors should eat snacks every few hours and pair them with plenty of water to drink. Elderly adults that depend on family caregivers and senior care providers to do the grocery shopping and meal prep should make sure the snacks are the best choices for controlling diabetes symptoms.<\/p>\n

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Here is a list of diabetes-friendly snacks that are ideal for seniors with the disease:<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n