Many moms and dads who have diabetes know how to keep their health in check – but their family might miss the fat and sugar usually found in common recipes. So how does a family chef balance the diabetic-friendly food with some treats for the clan?
For every time you cook a “rich” meal, have them eat a meal low in fat and sugar, recommends the American Diabetes Assoication (ADA). This way, you can work out an agreeable trade-off.
Over time, you can make subtle switches to your favorite meals by substituting healthyalternatives.
Some ideas:
●Use salsa on potatoes instead of heavy butter and sour cream.
●Instead of whole milk, slowly transition to 2%, then 1%, then fat-free. If children in the house need more fat in their milk (your pediatrician will let you know), have a separate carton for them, and use the lower-fat version for cooking and for adults to drink.
●Switch white pasta for whole-wheat pasta a little at a time: first a few noodles, then ¼ of the dish, then half, then the entire plate.
●To switch to whole-grain bread, make kids their sandwiches with one slice of whole grain and one slice of their usual bread for a while. They’ll like the unusual look of a “two-toned” sandwich and will get used to the taste over time.
●Introduce reduced-fat cheese, tortillas, crackers, peanut butter and other options one at a time. Most of the time, your family won’t notice.
Slow changes will be more acceptable to your family and are more likely to stick. In fact, if you fail to mention some of the substitutions, your family is likely not to notice. As you know, however, a diet that’s good for people with diabetes is good for everyone. You’re helping your whole family live a longer and healthier life.
Compiled from 101 Tips for Coping with Diabetes. Copyrighted by the American Diabetes Association. All rights reserved.
Source: LifeScript
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