Many foods generally considered unhealthy for various reasons have nutritional benefits that actually make them quite healthy. You may want to add some of them to your senior loved one’s diet. Read on to learn the surprising benefits of the following five foods.
1. Nut Butters
Nut butters have long been considered unhealthy due to the amount of fat and calories they contain. However, for seniors, they’re an excellent source of calories because they contain protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Nut butters are easy to digest as well.
2. Potatoes
Potatoes are thought to be a comfort food due to the way they’re often served. A senior can greatly benefit from eating these starchy vegetables because they contain vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, and fiber. They can also be prepared in many ways and with different toppings to increase caloric intake when needed.
If your loved one needs assistance with grocery shopping and meal prep, consider hiring a professional caregiver. Whether your elderly loved one needs part-time assistance with basic household chores or you need a break from your caregiving duties, the Huntsville respite care experts at Home Care Assistance are here to help. All of our respite care services are backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts.
3. Eggs
It was long believed that eggs had a negative impact on cholesterol levels when eaten regularly. Science has now proven saturated fats affect blood cholesterol more than dietary cholesterol. Eggs are an excellent and cheap source of high-quality protein and many other vitamins and minerals.
Some seniors have a difficult time preparing healthy meals as they get older. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior home care. Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
4. Dairy Products
Dairy products contain the calcium and vitamin D seniors need for strong bones. They’re also a good source of protein. However, some may regard dairy products as harmful due to the levels of saturated fat. In moderation and as part of a balanced diet, dairy products such as low-fat milk and yogurt are outstanding food choices.
5. Breakfast Cereals
Breakfast cereals are known for their high sugar and fat content, but they also contain the valuable vitamin B12, which is essential for seniors because it helps them maintain the nervous system and prevent anemia. As people age, the ability to absorb vitamin B12 decreases, so it’s important to consume extra when possible. Cereals like Kellogg’s All-Bran with Extra Fiber will contain more of this nutrient, but even regular Kellogg’s Cheerios can help boost the daily intake.
Eating a nutritious diet can help aging adults stave off a number of health issues. Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of home care. Huntsville families can rely on Home Care Assistance to provide individualized care plans to meet their elderly loved ones’ unique care needs. Our holistic Balanced Care Method was designed to help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and our Cognitive Therapeutics Method offers mentally stimulating activities that can stave off cognitive decline and delay the onset of dementia. If your loved one needs assistance with the challenges of aging, reach out to one of our knowledgeable, compassionate Care Managers today at (256) 716-9940.