Superfoods for Seniors
As we age, our dietary needs shift. Consuming nutrient dense foods becomes essential in order to maintain healthy cognitive function, strengthen bone density, control blood pressure, and prevent chronic disease.
Meals to Boost Senior Nutrition
Incorporating more superfoods into meals is an effective way to get a nutritional boost without sacrificing flavor. Here are several items to add to your grocery list that can help extend vitality and improve overall well being.
Leafy Greens for Stronger Bones
Seniors have an increased need for calcium due to bone softening. Dark leafy green vegetables like kale, spinach, and broccoli are an easy way to get more of the mineral. Additionally, these veggies are rich in Vitamin K, which has been found to support bone health, as well as cognitive and heart health.
Meal suggestions: Throw some spinach into your morning smoothie, make kale chips in the oven, or add arugula on top of a pizza.
Berries for Healthy Aging
Berries offer a myriad of impressive benefits. The fruit is full of fiber, which helps to keep you fuller for longer, and can be effective in weight management. Plus, fiber also protects us from heart disease and many types of cancer. Concerned about contracting dementia as you age? The antioxidants in berries improve motor skills and short term memory, as well as protect skin cells from damage and lower the risk of developing macular degeneration.
Meal suggestions: Top yogurt or oatmeal with berries, bake blueberry muffins with the grandkids.
Eggs to Improve Cognitive Health
Eggs have gotten a bad reputation because of cholesterol concerns. However, the yolk in eggs are full of helpful nutrients including B12, choline, selenium, and vitamin D, which help improve brain and cell function. Seniors can safely consume up to three eggs per day, unless their physician instructs otherwise.
Meal suggestions: Whip up egg salad for lunch, make two-ingredient egg and banana pancakes for a tasty protein boost.
Seafood to Regain Muscle Strength
The lean protein found in tuna, salmon, cod, and other fish assists older adults in building or regaining muscle, which is essential to keep them on their feet. Seafood also has omega-3 fatty acids, which protect against chronic disease, blood clots, inflammation, and more.
Meal suggestions: Swap lunch meat for tuna in a wrap or sandwich, add smoked salmon to a bagel with cream cheese for a satisfying breakfast.
Visiting Angels Supports Senior Health
If you or your senior loved one could use assistance around the house, Visiting Angels Arlington Heights is here to help. We offer flexible in-home care services that include healthy meal preparation for older adults. Additionally, Visiting Angels caregivers are happy to transport their clients to the grocery store or the Arlington Heights Farmers Market to buy produce and other superfoods. Our care professionals aim to preserve seniors’ overall wellbeing and keep them living independently for as long as possible.
For more information about in-home care with Visiting Angels Arlington Heights, contact us today via our online form or give us a call at 847-963-8944.