Dietitian offers grocery shopping tips during Diabetes Awareness Month

November is Diabetes Awareness Month and News 12 got a walk-through of ShopRite to learn about some good options for diabetics in the borough.
Angela Vita is a dietitian and ShopRite of Bruckner Boulevard in the Bronx is her office every day, doing one-on-one consultations with shoppers and holding classes, including one specifically for people with diabetes.

“When it comes to diabetes, portion control is really important. So, I want to make sure my customers have choices and I’m here to provide them with those choices,” says Vita.

Beginning in the produce sections of the store, Vita says to aim for non-starchy vegetables like asparagus, green beans, cabbage, peppers and onions.

Next up is the drink aisle, where sparkling seltzer is a great option. It can be spruced up by adding lemon lime or other fresh fruit or just a splash of 100 percent juice. 

When it comes to baking for people with diabetes, especially this holiday season, Vita says go with whole wheat flour especially for things like pie crust, cookies or cakes.

“It's rich in fiber, which helps slow digestion and keeps us fuller for longer,” says Vita.

Vita says don't forget about the spices that can help sweeten the flavor too such as clove, ground ginger, cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice. 

“Sweet tasting spices will add a lot of flavor to your baked goods without adding any sugar,” she says.

For those with diabetes, Vita says there are always healthy swaps in the grocery store. It’s all about knowing which swaps to make 

“I find there's this misconception that people with diabetes can't have certain things and they have to avoid them,” says Vita.

Vita's will hold multiple diabetes sessions at ShopRite all month to raise awareness and educate.