Articles and Information from GA Foods

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States. Diabetes occurs when blood glucose levels are above normal. With diabetes, the body may not make enough insulin, use the insulin in the right way, or both, causing blood sugar levels to be too high.

Changes in eyesight. Hearing loss. Bone deficiency. Some conditions are inevitable as we age – especially without proper care and attention. But there are many misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding aging that make the entire process difficult and even a little confusing.

(This post was originally published on February 15, 2018 and updated on July 10, 2019).

We all know that eating healthy can help to reduce your risk of heart disease-- and your waistline! But did you know that heart-healthy foods can be delicious? ! And it's easier than you may think! 

With nutritious, wholesome, and convenient dishes in high demand, frozen meals are the perfect solution, yet there is still a commonly held belief that they are just processed and filled with preservatives. And while that may have been true 20 years ago, the food industry has evolved with pressure from health-conscious consumers who are looking for healthier frozen meals that are easier to find and prepare.

With nearly 1 in 6 seniors facing the threat of hunger and malnourishment, food insecurity is now a nationwide epidemic that is getting more expansive by the day. And with a yearly healthcare bill of $130 billion due to medical issues stemming from senior hunger, it’s also getting more expensive.

While your patients are in your care, you provide them with quality nutrition care. But, what happens when they go home? 

Many transitional care plans may be missing an important piece – nutrition care. Providing access to food allows the frail and elderly to regain their strength and energy faster. Proper nutrition for those at risk improves patient outcomes following surgery or hospitalization.

Hospitals face many challenges when patients are discharged. Some concerns include if patients understand their care plan and need for follow up appointments. Will your patients have access to healthy meals when they return home? What if they are unable to shop or prepare meals for themselves? 

When patients go into the hospital, one thing they may not expect is to leave malnourished. But, that is what occurs to one-third of patients admitted to hospitals. Malnutrition is not always recognized and often goes untreated during hospitalization. Weight loss and inadequate nutritional intake can delay the healing and recovery process. This may lead to more challenging recoveries, and in many cases, relapse and readmission.

Nutrition Care Can Reduce Hospital Admissions

Health care professionals are always looking for better ways to keep members out of the hospital and to reduce their length of stay. Yet, the role of nutrition remains poorly understood by providers, administrators, and payers. One of the leading causes for readmission to the hospital is malnutrition. 

Adopting a positive attitude can go far in dealing with the changes associated with aging. In fact, according to Kaiser Health News, those who have a positive outlook on aging live 7.5 years longer. Studies show that older adults who hold negative stereotypes about aging tend to walk more slowly, experience memory problems, and recover less fully from a fall or fracture.

February is American Heart Month! It is an excellent time to take charge of your health. Regular visits to your doctor to check your blood pressure and cholesterol are simple ways to know your risk factors for heart disease. In fact, 80 percent of cardiovascular diseases may be preventable through education and action.