5 Superfoods Seniors Should Include in Their Diets

No one can reverse the aging process, but it can be slowed down by following a proper diet. Filling your senior loved one’s meals with nutrient-dense superfoods can reduce the risk of many different age-related diseases and chronic disorders. These five superfoods are excellent options for older adults who want to look and feel their best in their senior years. 

 

1. Beets

Beets are filled with some of the most powerful nutrients, including fiber, potassium, and folate. When eaten regularly, this vegetable can lower the risk of heart disease, colon cancer, and other health conditions. 

Precooked beets are still relatively healthy, but many of the vitamins and minerals are lost during the canning process. Luckily, fresh beets generally last for at least two weeks when stored in a refrigerator. 

Sometimes seniors need motivation to eat healthier, and professional caregivers can help. In-home care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers.

 

2. Blueberries

The antioxidants found in blueberries can protect your loved one’s cells from the free radicals that cause chronic inflammation. Studies have shown that untreated inflammation could be partially responsible for Alzheimer’s disease, arthritis, and many other serious health conditions. 

Blueberries are also rich in fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin E. They can be eaten as a sweet treat between meals or blended up in homemade shakes to enhance the flavor and texture. Some experts suggest eating one or two handfuls of blueberries per day to enjoy these benefits.

If your busy schedule can’t accommodate extra attention to your loved one’s diet, consider hiring a professional caregiver. If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of respite care. Frederick seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable home caregivers.

 

3. Yogurt

A few decades ago, researchers began studying the connection between digestive health and overall wellbeing. These studies have shown that gut bacteria can impact everything from emotional health to the immune system. The probiotics found in yogurt give the healthy bacteria something to feed on and suppress the growth of dangerous bacteria. Yogurt is also filled with calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients that can strengthen bones and prevent osteoporosis.

 

4. Eggs

Chicken eggs are often referred to as a superfood because they contain all the amino acids people need to survive. They’re one of the cheapest forms of protein, and they can be cooked in many ways, depending on your loved one’s preferences. 

Researchers from the University of Melbourne found the carotenoids in eggs may prevent macular degeneration. Carotenoids are only found in the yolk, so seniors should try to eat the entire egg whenever possible.

 

5. Tomatoes

Scientists still know very little about what triggers cancer, but doctors have been able to identify a few antioxidants that can slow the spread of cancerous cells. Tomatoes are packed with a cancer-fighting carotenoid known as lycopene. When eaten in sufficient quantities, lycopene can reduce the risk of heart disease, prostate cancer, breast cancer, and cataracts. Initial studies have shown that concentrated tomato paste might be just as beneficial to health as fresh tomatoes. Encourage your loved one to switch to healthy superfoods and help him or her prepare nutritious meals. If you have a senior loved one who needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care Frederick families can trust. Our caregivers help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and we offer mentally stimulating activities that can boost cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. Call today to speak with a friendly and experienced Care Manager to formulate a home care plan for your loved one.