Diabetic without an appetite

iVillage Member
Registered: 11-03-2007
Diabetic without an appetite
16
Sat, 11-03-2007 - 12:36am

I need some advice.  My mom-in-law is an insulin dependant diebetic, age 85.  She says she has no appetite and won't eat much.  She thinks not eating should help her levels stay down but the doctor isn't pleased with her recent tests.  I'm trying to find some web site or book resources that will give me more information.  I can't believe starving herself would help.  I'm worried that it's doing the opposite and raising her levels.  Any information would be greatly appreciated.


Thanks.

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Avatar for cl_maryfrances40
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-25-2003
Sun, 11-04-2007 - 12:31am

Hi plindsay5,


You are correct that straving herself isn't helping her blood sugars. At her age, most doctors don't worry too much about elevated blood sugars because she isn't going to get the damage that younger folks are going to get. So try increasing the amount of good fats that she gets and try adding avocado into her meals. Good fats are commonly olive oil. Pretty much let her eat whatever she will eat. Decreased appetite is a problem of the elderly. As we get older our taste buds become less aware of the varietes of foods that we eat and everything tastes a like and boring.


Try fixing her favorite foods but don't fight with her about eating. The less you make the an issue, the more she will cooperate.


There are a lot of recipes in the recipe folder that we have on this board. See if some interest you and her. I know this is frustrating and I hope you gets more interested in foods as the holidays approach.



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Gynecology

iVillage Member
Registered: 11-03-2007
Sun, 11-04-2007 - 7:36pm

Hi Mary Frances,


Thank you so much

Avatar for cl_coldfingers
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-19-2003
Sun, 11-04-2007 - 8:03pm

I would say that if she is interested in the Glucerna products, let her try them!


Avatar for cl_maryfrances40
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-25-2003
Tue, 11-06-2007 - 12:32am

Yes, they can be used as they are prepared especially for diabetics. Frequently the elderly like these also. I think they are better when they are served cold.


iVillage Member
Registered: 07-10-2003
Wed, 11-07-2007 - 7:47pm

I do believe also that not wanting to eat much seems to be common in the elderly.

iVillage Member
Registered: 11-03-2007
Thu, 11-08-2007 - 12:51am
Thanks. I sent her a few different Glucerna products to try and passed along the advice about drinking them cold.
iVillage Member
Registered: 11-03-2007
Thu, 11-08-2007 - 1:08am

I'm finding out more and more about appetite and the elderly.

iVillage Member
Registered: 11-03-2007
Thu, 11-08-2007 - 1:31am

H iCheryl, I'm sorry, I seemed to have missed your post! I sent her some Glucerna products, drinks and snack bars.

Avatar for cl_coldfingers
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-19-2003
Thu, 11-08-2007 - 7:49am

My mom had cancer.


Avatar for cl_maryfrances40
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-25-2003
Fri, 11-09-2007 - 2:55am

Peanut butter was originally developed for the elderly in a nursing home in the midwest. 2 tbsp contains 7 grams of carbs and it contains proteins and is easily digestible. The usual serving size is 1 tablespoon.


I hope she will eat what you have sent her. She is literally starving herself. Makes you wonder if her judgement is slipping. Do watch carefully. You may need to tell her physician what is going on.


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