As March heralds into spring, with it comes National Nutrition month. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics created this annual effort to teach individuals the importance of proper nutrition and a well-balanced diet. Healthy eating is important at any age, but for seniors, it is a crucial part of maintaining a full and healthy lifestyle. As well as keeping your body healthy, eating well can also be the key to a positive outlook and staying emotionally balanced.
When we think of “diet” and “nutrition” we often think it means giving up the foods we love. Healthy eating does not have to be about dieting and sacrifice. Rather, it should be all about enjoying fresh, tasty food, wholesome ingredients, and most importantly, eating in the company of friends and family. Our goal at Atlantic In-Home care is to ensure seniors get the quality care they need to live their best lives within the comfort of their own homes. This care includes referring a personal caregiver who will help them eat balanced and nutritionally rich meals. They achieve this by assisting with grocery shopping and meal preparation.
No matter your age or your previous eating habits, it’s never too late to improve the way you think and feel. Eating foods rich in vitamins can help seniors live longer, sharpen their minds, and most importantly feel better. Good nutrition can boost immunity, fight illness-causing toxins, keep weight in check, and reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, type-2 diabetes, bone loss, and cancer. Along with physical activity, a personal caregiver helping to select a balanced diet can also contribute to enhanced independence as they age.
When meal planning it is important to consider all the vitamins and minerals needed to achieve a healthy and balanced diet. For seniors, this includes:
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Protein-Rich foods such as lean meat, poultry, and fish. Additionally, beans, nuts, and eggs can be added to your diet to help receive the protein an aging body needs. These can help promote muscle strength and bone health.
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Fiber from foods such as whole-grain bread, breakfast cereals, brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, fruits, vegetables, and lentils can help regulate your digestive system and lower the risk of heart disease and obesity.
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Calcium-rich foods in the form of milk, cheese, yogurt, cereals, and dark green leafy vegetables can promote bone strength.
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Vitamin B12 can be found in foods like beef, chicken, trout, salmon, tuna fish, as well as low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese. These foods can help promote brain and nervous system functions.
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Omega-3 Fatty Acids can be found in sardines, tuna, mackerel, and salmon as well as flaxseed, soybeans, and nuts. Omega-3 rich foods can reduce inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis, and can even help prevent heart disease and slow down macular degeneration.
Eating well can be a daunting task, especially when your mind is preoccupied with family and other health concerns. Atlantic In-Home Care’s network of personal caregivers are among the best to work with and to help ease the stress of meal planning and preparation through the highest quality care services. Part of eating well, maybe the best part, is being able to share that healthy and tasty food with someone. Sharing a meal with someone can greatly improve spirits and push away depression and loneliness. The personal caregiver we refer can also provide companion services, meaning not only can they help you prepare a delicious and hearty meal, but they can also enjoy it with you! Atlantic In-Home Care is here for you and your loved one to ensure all your care needs are met through the referral of a highly qualified personal caregiver. We hope you have a delicious and nutritious month this March!