It seems like everything is a dietary no-no these days. The ever-growing list of foods to avoid sometimes makes it difficult for seniors and their caregivers to prepare appropriate meals, especially ones based on favorite recipes calling for any of the questionable ingredients. Fortunately, some of these “bad” foods are now considered acceptable and even beneficial for senior health.
1. Eggs
Dietary cholesterol doesn’t affect overall cholesterol levels as much as previously thought. This means it’s now fine to eat a whole egg, not just the whites. The yolk also has plenty of protein and vitamins seniors need, such as B12 and D.
2. Bacon
Most bacon is made without the sodium nitrites that may contribute to some forms of cancer. Lean cuts of bacon are an excellent source of heart-friendly monounsaturated fats and protein for seniors. Some seniors find maintaining a healthy diet becomes more challenging with age. 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 elder care.Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
3. Potatoes
Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbs (although they’re not recommended for diabetics) and are also filling enough to help seniors minimize hunger pangs between meals. This versatile veggie is also loaded with vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
4. Whole Milk
Seniors who skip whole milk altogether are missing out on important fat-soluble vitamins. Organic milk and milk from grass-fed cows are especially high in omega-3 fatty acids and immunity-boosting conjugated linoleic acid, which can also increase bone strength. 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 Irving 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.
5. Red Meat
When consumed in moderation, lean red meat can help seniors maintain their weight and control inflammation that aggravates conditions such as arthritis. Red meat is also a great source of metabolism-boosting iron.
6. Chocolate
Seniors who opt for dark chocolate on occasion are likely to be less stressed. This type of chocolate also has anti-inflammatory properties and can help with digestion.
7. Butter
The fat found in butter isn’t the kind linked to heart disease. Seniors can actually shed unwanted pounds by opting for real butter, since it’s a great source of the fatty acids that facilitate weight loss. Eating well can help seniors stave off a number of age-related health issues and maintain a high quality of life well into their golden years. Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type ofin-home care. Irvingfamilies 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. Call us at (817) 591-1580 to learn about our comprehensive in-home care plans.
