Diabetes-Friendly Drinks Most people know that diabetics should avoid sugary drinks. We know, too, that water is the healthiest drink since it doesn’t contain sugar, calories, or carbohydrates. The problem is that drinking water all the time can just be so darn boring! If your senior parent has diabetes, you want to keep them hydrated, but sometimes it can be difficult to get enough liquids down if they’re not interested in drinking plain water. So, what can your parent drink besides water? Here are some diabetes-friendly drinks that your parent may enjoy.
Home-Mixed Chocolate Milk
Chocolate milk is a great option because it contains calcium and tastes great. However, don’t reach for the chocolate milk on the store shelves—it could be loaded with sugar. Instead, make your own low-fat version with a cup of 1% milk with three teaspoons of cocoa powder, and two tablespoons of your parent’s favorite zero-calorie sweetener.
Infused Water
Infused water is simply water that is flavored with fruits or vegetables. To make it, cut up some fruit, such as lemons, oranges, or strawberries. Cucumber water is also a favorite for many people. Place the fruits or veggies in a pitcher. Next, add water from the tap and refrigerate. The water will have a refreshing taste and you can make any flavor you want.
Coffee and Tea
Coffee and tea are good choices for warm drinks. However, adding sugar and cream to the cup can affect blood sugar. Use a no-calorie sweetener instead and limit the amount of cream.
Homemade Lemonade
Nothing tastes better on a hot day than a cold glass of lemonade, but skip the pre-made stuff from the store to avoid sugar and carbs. You can make lemonade with fresh lemons and artificial sweetener at home.
Milk or Juice
Diabetics can drink milk and juice, they just need to make smarter choices and count them into their daily meal plan. Milk should be low-fat or skim. When purchasing juice, look for 100 percent juice with no added sugar. Again, remember to count them in your parent’s meal plan.
If your parent is diabetic, hiring a senior care provider through an agency can help them to better follow the meal plan set by their doctor. A senior care provider can help your parent to prepare healthy meals and snacks. They can also assist your parent with tracking the foods they have eaten. A senior care provider can even remind your parent to test their blood sugar levels and take their medications.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring a caregiver in Bel Air, CA, please call Mom's Home Care and talk to our friendly, knowledgeable staff. Our number is 323-244-4789.
Sources
http://www.webmd.com/diabetes/daily-control-17/slideshow-diabetes-friendly-drinks http://www.diabetes.org/food-and-fitness/food/what-can-i-eat/making-healthy-food-choices/what-can-i-drink.html?referrer=https://www.google.com/ http://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/drinks-for-diabetics
