Dealing with Diabetes and 22 Meds: Low-Cal, Low-Carb Food Solutions

[pampchef.angel]

My dad has alzheimer's. He also has high blood pressure, high cholesterol, is obese and many other health issues that cause him to take 22 pills each day. As of yesterday, he is a confirmed diabetic as well. The issue? What should he eat? He needs low calorie, low carb, low sugar, low everything...but still has to have enough food to be able to process all of the medication. I wondered if anyone else has ever dealt with such restriction - I really need advice.

 

[Jolie_Paradoxe]

My dad has alzheimer's. He also has high blood pressure, high cholesterol, is obese and many other health issues that cause him to take 22 pills each day. As of yesterday, he is a confirmed diabetic as well. The issue? What should he eat? He needs low calorie, low carb, low sugar, low everything...but still has to have enough food to be able to process all of the medication. I wondered if anyone else has ever dealt with such restriction - I really need advice.

Wow Angel....I'm sorry for the added stress of health issues along side his alzheimers...I will pray for you and your family.

I ran into the same dilemma (minus the alzheimer's) a few years back when my mother had a heart attack...she is diabetic and taking an absurd amount of meds. I'd rec you purchase the substitute salt and sub butter. My mother would never have stuck to the restrictions if I didn't use a substitute for both. McCormick also makes a variety of spices, salt free. I had a long list of recipes that were "diabetic" friendly.....I'll look for it and email to you if you'd like. Just remember to adjust the recipes to no salt, no or low fat for the added restrictions.....it is hard at first, but with time, it eventually can become the "norm"........also, in the beginning, allow for small lapses so he doesn't feel denied and "sneak" no no items.

Just my two cents and personal experience....I hope it helps some.

 

[pampchef.angel]

Thank you, Laurie...I really appreciate the advice and if you can find it, I would LOVE to have your list...

 

[Jolie_Paradoxe]

sure thing....hoping I have it on a CD.my hard drive crashed a few months back, and I lost all my documents. :cry:

Send me your email in the event of finding it. I also want to tell you not to remember to breathe and vent to a close friend. Drop any guilt you may experience when you get frustrated with this new lifestyle.....there will be days you want to scream because of non compliance. :blushing: It's ok, and totally normal. Also, hug your dad much and create happy memories for yourself.

 

[Jolie_Paradoxe]

K found it........get ready, it's 55 pgs long! I wanted variety so my mom couldn't complain and feel bitter! She loves trying new foods, so this became kind of fun. Again, you'll have to modify and sub some ingredients for his specific needs, but it'll be a solid foundation to start from!

Send me your email address, and I'll send it out.

 

[ChefBeckyD]

Lots of vegetables and fruits, along with lean meats and dairy. Also, nuts and nut butters and whole grains. Go very light on processed foods, and sugar and white flour.

Is he living at home? Is he still responsible for feeding himself? I know that when my Mom was feeding herself, she would eat, and then re-eat, because she would forget she'd just eaten. But then, she would also eat a whole container of ice cream a day...or a dozen bakery cookies...because they looked good, and she would forget that she'd just had some. So, I was just wondering if some of that might be contributing to his health issues?

Now that someone else is feeding her, she is eating much better, and the right things, and some of her health issues have gotten much better!

 

[pampchef.angel]

Laurie, my email address is:

[email protected]

and THANK YOU!!!

 

[floccies]

I would recommend a good nutritionist (PhD). That's alot going on to figure out by yourself.

 

[susan g]

If the obesity goes away, his diabetes may be resolved. My friend's dad began gaining a lot of weight with his Alzheimer's and it turned out that he didn't remember that he already ate, so he would have meals over and over again, at all hours of the day and night. His insurance might cover a nutritionist who could help you plan his meals-even if not covered, it might be worth doing. Good luck-your dad is fortunate to have you caring for him.

 

[Jolie_Paradoxe]

I would recommend a good nutritionist (PhD). That's alot going on to figure out by yourself.

Very good point..most major hospitals will offer free classes on diabetic guidelines. If you do not have the time, ask them for the book which explains how to read product labels and their "point" system. I'd be happy to share what I know.....sent ya the email.........hope you found it useful

 

[Jolie_Paradoxe]

Hello again,

Just wondering how your dad was doing? And you? How's the change in lifestyle going for both of you?

 

[pampchef.angel]

Hey Laurie,
So far so good...my dad has an appt with his doc to visit a nutritionist. The recipes that you sent are helpful; I have given the entire list to my mom. Oh and thanks for the KFC coupon, too!!!

 

[Jolie_Paradoxe]

I'm so glad he and your mom have decided to visit a nutritionist and to follow the guidelines! It'll make a big difference in how he feels. Glad the recipes might be helpful.....let me know if you ever need an ear or have any other questions! Praying for you and your family