Elderly Care in Minnetonka MN
Did you know that there are some foods that can give us a more youthful complexion? Getting older is inevitable, but there is no reason your elderly parent should have to feel and look their age.
Older adults have more health complications than any other age group. From constipation and bladder problems to diabetes and heart disease, the foods your loved one eats could prevent these issues from happening to them. If they are living by themselves, getting the motivation to make these healthy changes might be challenging to do. However, if they have an elderly care provider who will provide companionship, while also assisting with meal preparations and grocery shopping, they will have a better chance of eating nutritious foods.
Dieting Tips for Older Adults
- Drink more water. Water should be an essential part of everyone’s diet. This calorie-free drink can help flush out harmful toxins from the body, help the digestive system work properly, and ward off fatigue. Seniors are not able to tell if they are thirsty like they used to. They may not figure out how thirsty they are until they become dehydrated. Make sure to remind your loved one to drink water throughout the day, even if they do not feel like it.
- Eat fiber-rich foods. Fiber can help keep the digestive system running smoothly in order to prevent constipation and other stomach issues. It can also reduce the chances of developing diabetes by regulating blood sugar levels. Legumes, while grains, fruits, and vegetables are packed with this nutrient.
- Snack on blueberries. Not only are blueberries sweet and delicious, but they also contain antioxidants that will help minimize and prevent cell damage. Elderly adults can enjoy them by themselves, on top of oatmeal, or in a baked good.
- Add olive oil. A 2013 study found that people who consumed extra virgin olive oil had an increase in “good” cholesterol and a decline in “bad” cholesterol. Not to mention that it also includes antioxidants to keep the body healthy.
- Include omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids will keep the heart healthy and can prevent a stroke or heart disease from developing. Your loved one should try to eat two servings a week of salmon or other fatty fish that contains omega-3 fatty acids.
If your loved one has a chronic health condition, talk to their doctor or a dietitian to get dieting tips on how to keep the elder healthy while managing their condition.
Source:
http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/features/anti-aging-diet
If you or an aging loved one are considering elderly care in Minnetonka, MN, and the surrounding areas, please contact the friendly staff at CareBuilders at Home Minnesota. Call today 612-260-2273.
