3 Super Foods For Seniors
You’d be hard pressed to find a health professional anywhere who doesn’t recommend a nutritious diet. It has been ingrained into our minds since we were kids. You have to eat right! But what exactly is “right” when you enter your later years? Are there foods that are particularly healthy for senior citizens?
Well, it should probably go without saying that all healthy foods are worthwhile for seniors to eat. However, research has proven that there are many essential nutrients that the majority of older adults lack. By consuming “super foods”, seniors can help to lower their risk of such ailments as heart disease, stroke and even Alzheimer’s disease.
Here are three super foods for seniors:
Salmon
This delicious fish tops the lists of many nutritionists who promote healthy eating for seniors. Just how nutritious is salmon? Allow us to count the ways! 1. Along with other cold water fish like tuna, sardines and mackerel, salmon is low in calories and saturated fat. It is, however, high in protein. 2. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These help to optimize levels of triglycerides which carry fat in the bloodstream.
As well, foods that are high in omega-3s reduce the low density LDL cholesterol (the bad kind), while improving the high HDL cholesterol (the good kind). This results in fewer deposits in the arteries, a lowered risk of risk of heart attacks and irregular heartbeats and lower blood pressure. 3. Salmon has even been known to help older adults build brain cell membranes!
Nuts
Going back to idioms that we grew up learning, who doesn’t know the whole “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” saying? Well, you could easily say “eating nuts every day keeps the doctor at bay” and be just as accurate! Studies have shown that eating an ounce of nuts on a daily basis can help to reduce the risk of heart disease.
Which nuts are the healthiest? Walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, pecans, pistachios and peanuts are the most highly recommended. While nuts are known to be higher in fat, they contain no cholesterol. Walnuts, in particular, join salmon on the list of foods that are high in omega-3s. They are also rich in vitamin E. Studies have also shown that vitamin E can help to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Carrots
You just knew that a vegetable was going to end up on this list of super foods, didn’t you? While we could have chosen from a multitude of different veggies, we landed on carrots because of their antioxidant content.
Carrots are chock full of beta-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E and zinc. These antioxidants are known for lowering the chances of vision impairment (another thing we learned as kids). Carrots also provide a significant source of vitamin A. This is known to help decrease the levels of Alzheimer’s disease.
Have any questions about how to assist your elderly loved one or to learn more about our services, please don’t hesitate to call Senior Homecare by Angels at 403-862-0129 or if outside of Calgary, toll-free at 1-877-209-6142. You may also visit the Contact Us page to complete and submit a simple inquiry form.
Gerry Gatto is a trained health care administrator and the owner of Senior Homecare® By Angels a Calgary based company. Helping Calgary seniors remain in their homes and maintain their independence with the assistance of a dedicated caregiver.