Snacking doesn’t have to be unhealthy. In fact, by choosing nutritious snacks, seniors with diabetes are better able to control their weight, maintain their blood sugar levels, and keep their energy high. Here are the 10 best snacks for older adults who are managing diabetes.

What are the effects of snacking on diabetes?

Certain everyday foods contain an abundance of carbohydrates, nutrients that impact blood sugar when the body turns them into glucose. Eating too many simple carbohydrates at once spikes blood sugar levels; this in turn causes a series of diabetes complications.

Eating an excessive amount of carbohydrates can lead to serious health issues, like diabetic retinopathy, whereby the blood vessels in the retinas become damaged. Untreated diabetic retinopathy, caused by high blood sugar levels, can lead to vision loss and blindness.

Diabetic neuropathy is another health condition that can result from high blood sugar levels. A form of nerve damage, this condition causes pain, tingling, or numbness in the diabetic’s hands, legs, and feet. Some patients lose sensation in their feet or experience stabbing and shooting pain.

Heart disease and stroke are further complications diabetics can experience if they consume too many carbohydrates. However, seniors shouldn’t avoid carbs altogether. Rather diabetes patients are urged to reach for good carbohydrates, like fruits and veggies, and in healthy amounts.

Seniors control their blood sugar and hunger pangs simultaneously by combining complex carbs with healthy fats and proteins. Satisfying, protein-rich foods include nuts, low-fat cheese, and Greek yogurt; these nutritious foods also help the older diabetic patient control their blood sugar.

What are the best snacks for seniors with diabetes?

1. Baked Potato Chips and Salsa

Diabetics mustn’t reach for just any potato chips. Baked potato chips are the healthy option. When dipped in a low-carb salsa prepared with tomatoes and vegetables, the chips are a nutritious snack. The crunchy, low-fat baked chips and salsa combo delivers satisfaction during afternoon cravings.

2. Hard-boiled Eggs

Eggs are rich in protein and low in carbs. One hard-boiled egg provides 6.3 grams of protein, which prevents a rise in blood sugar after eating, and less than one gram of carbohydrates. Eggs naturally promote a feeling of satiation, which can aid in weight-loss endeavors.

3. Low-fat Popcorn

Seniors with diabetes don’t have to give up popcorn. As a whole grain, popcorn is high in fiber, which can curb hunger and promote a healthy weight. Satisfy cravings by air-popping or microwaving low-fat popcorn—one cup delivers 6 grams of carbs per cup and only 31 calories.

4. Whole-Grain Waffles

Grab a box of whole-grain waffles from the freezer and toast one for a delicious, low-carb snack. One frozen waffle contains 90 calories and 17 grams of carbs. Top the waffle with unsweetened almond butter or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt, then dust with cinnamon.

5. Hummus

Chickpeas serves as the base for hummus, a creamy spread that gets its flavor from a sesame seed paste called tahini. High in fiber, chickpeas are also low on the glycemic index. This makes hummus an optimum snack for controlling blood sugar. Top whole-grain crackers with hummus and enjoy.

6. Yogurt and Berries

Berries, like blueberries, stabilize blood sugar after consumption. Mix these high-fiber fruits with yogurt, a low-carb dairy that lowers the risk for type 2 diabetes. Yogurt contains ample probiotics, which improve the aging body’s ability to metabolize foods containing sugar.

7. Everything Crackers

At just 17 grams of carbs per serving, Everything Crackers is a crunchy treat for elder diabetics. The crackers are available in a variety of savory flavors, from basil and garlic to rosemary and jalapeno, to satisfyfood every craving. Pair the crackers with dip or cheese for an irresistible bite.

8. Red Bell Peppers and Dip

Red bell peppers sliced thin and dipped into a creamy garden dip offer a burst of zesty flavor. Purchase a low-fat garden dip or prepare a homemade one. Simply combine a packet of seasoning with low-fat sour cream or cottage cheese; or mix it with plain Greek yogurt.

9. Mozzarella and Tomatoes

The key to enjoying regular cheese while diabetic is keeping the amounts small. Opt for slices of fresh mozzarella, preferably low-fat, nestled between sliced grape tomatoes. Rather than dressing, drizzle olive oil or balsamic vinegar to keep the heart healthy, too.

10. Avocados

Seniors on a diabetic diet can enjoy avocados, which are low in sugar and packed with fiber. However, in order to maintain weight, keep portion sizes small; avocados are calorie-dense. Bring out extra flavor by sprinkling the fruit slices with sea salt and squeezing lime juice over them.

Senior Home Care from Assisting Hands

Snacking for older adults with diabetes can still remain an enjoyable experience. It’s critical to choose the right snacks, like those mentioned on this list, to control blood sugar levels and stay healthy. Seniors who need help preparing these delicious snacks find it at Assisting Hands Home Care.

We are a reputable senior home care agency, staffed with dedicated caregivers who fulfill the non-medical care needs of the elderly in the comfort of home. Our professionals assist with a wide range of daily activities to give seniors the opportunity to age in place and stay in their communities.

Caregiver responsibilities include shopping for fresh fruits and vegetables and preparing healthy meals and snacks. If your aging loved one is diabetic and has dietary restrictions, our professionals serve dishes that fall within these guidelines. We also serve beverages to keep care recipients hydrated.

We assist with hygiene tasks, perform light housekeeping, give medication reminders, and provide transportation to nearby areas, like the medical clinic and pharmacy. Caregivers are pleasant companions who socialize with the elderly to deter feelings of social isolation, loneliness, and depression.

Assisting Hands Home Care offers customizable care options, from compassionate Alzheimer’s care to live-in care, among others. Our licensed, insured, and bonded caregivers are privileged to serve Schaumburg, Illinois. Schedule a free in-home consult today to learn more about quality elder care.