SPECIAL DIETS - TIPS FOR HEALTHY LIVING
We're here to make it easier.
At Gelson’s we want to make sure that we support your lifestyle in every way, so we are committed to carrying all types of items to suit your dietary needs. Whether it’s diabetes-conscious, raw ingredients, or lactose-free, Gelson’s is here to ensure you have all the ingredients necessary to keep you healthy and happy.
.jpg)
Gluten-Free
Gluten-free translates to worry-free and healthful to so many people. Gelson’s features gluten-free products of nearly every size and shape to suit your taste.
Raw Foods
The basic raw materials may vary — a desire to lose weight, improve your health, or help the environment. But the raw facts are the same: Raw food hasn’t been cooked, processed, microwaved, irradiated, genetically engineered, or exposed to pesticides or herbicides. It’s no surprise that our Produce Department is a mecca for raw food fans, but other ingredients for you beckon storewide, including wonderful, surprising sources of protein.
Vegan/Vegetarian
For a certain group of customers, Gelson’s is where the elite meet NOT to eat meat — and that’s just the way we (and they) like it. There are many variations: Vegan...only plant-based foods; Lacto-vegetarian, which add milk products; Lacto-ovo vegetarian, where eggs figure; Flexitarian (semi-vegetarian), where animal foods (often just fish) are occasionally consumed. Ask your doctor or nutritionist for advice on how to compensate for any nutrients you might be missing, and we’ll help you find them in the store.
Diabetes
There is no single diabetes diet, and indeed there is no single diabetes. But people with diabetes must carefully track how many carbs they get each day, as they have more impact on blood sugar than fats or protein. A little advice (of course consult with your doctor) about eating right with diabetes: Studies show that people with Type 2 diabetes can improve their blood sugar and cholesterol by choosing colorful foods, watching calories, and getting plenty of fiber.
Heart Health
These heart-health tips are hard to beat: 1) Watch your portion size...almost everyone tends to eat more than their body needs; 2) Make our Produce Department your new favorite haunt, and load up! 3) Whole grains are a good idea...add ground flaxseed to your diet; 4) Limit saturated and trans fats that can build high blood cholesterol; 5) Go for low-fat protein sources like lean meat, poultry, fish, low-fat dairy products, egg whites, plus beans, peas, and lentils; Keep sodium to a minimum; and of course, stay active!
Lactose Intolerance
Many experts think your body is more tolerant of dairy products than was previously thought. Yes, you may not be able to digest lactose, which is a natural sugar found in dairy products. But before you give up milk entirely or restrict your children, you might want to try to keep at least some dairy products in your diet, such as cheese and yogurt, which contain less lactose. Maybe take lactase tablets before you eat, too. If you’re allergic to milk, that’s a whole different story. Naturally, you should always consult an expert.