Superfoods have gotten rather trendy lately. As we have learned more about them and all their benefits, it’s become increasingly clear how important it is for seniors to have superfoods in their diets. Several of these superfoods have been found to control many issues that come with the aging process, such as inflammation, arthritis, and maintaining a healthy immune system. If you are a caregiver, here are several superfoods you should know about! Not only are they delicious, but they also go a long way in disease prevention.
1: Salmon: Omega-3 Fatty Acids Fight Inflammation
Salmon has a high level of Omega-3 fatty acids. This is a tremendous help when it comes to controlling inflammation that causes arthritis and many other diseases. Incorporating fresh-water salmon into the diet is a very healthful and tasty way to help seniors stay healthy! Salmon is high in protein and packed with Omega 3, which is vital for heart health and brain function. A diet rich in salmon can really help stave off depression, which many seniors battle.
2: Broccoli: A Cruciferous Vegetable
Cruciferous might sound like a big fancy word, but don’t let it scare you. These vegetables are high in fiber and have many cancer-fighting benefits. Cruciferous vegetables include bok choy, cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, etc. Dark leafy greens are also hugely high in vitamins and minerals and should also be part of a healthy diet.
3: Blueberries: Nature’s Perfect Antioxidant
Who doesn’t love blueberries! They are delicious and very high in potassium, vitamin C and loaded with antioxidants. They are also very helpful in reducing inflammation due to arthritis and other diseases, and they also go a long way in preventing heart disease and lowering cancer risk. Because blueberries are such a boost for your immune system, every senior should have an ample supply of all berries in their diet! Blueberries have even been found to help prevent Alzheimer’s and dementia, osteoporosis, and even diabetes. That’s a lot of power packed into the humble blueberry!
4: Garlic: Nature’s Antibiotic
Garlic does a lot more than spice up your food and gives you bad breath. It is also one of the most pungent natural antibiotics, an antiviral agent, and even an antifungal. Who knew! Garlic helps prevent high blood pressure, lowers cholesterol and works to help boost the immune system against cancer. Other superfoods in the herbs and spice department include rosemary, ginger, and turmeric.
5: Chocolate – Yes, Please!
Good news for all the chocolate-loving seniors out there! Cocoa has properties that are quite beneficial to our health as we age, but the key is understanding that it’s the dark chocolate that has all the benefits. It must be 70% cacao, and it has enormous amounts of antioxidants—even more than some vegetables and fruit! Dark chocolate can help keep blood pressure normal and lower the risk of stroke and heart disease. For an extra boost, having that bit of dark chocolate with a nice cup of coffee or glass of red wine is sure to be the most delicious way to good health!
For more information on superfoods and how to incorporate them into the diet for seniors, please contact us today!
Meet the Author! Lisa Hmiel, Owner of Home Helpers of Jamestown
An industry expert with more than 30 years of successful experience in Health Care Services, Lisa Hmiel has a proven ability to foster relationships by making lives easier while providing care for those in need. Lisa grew up helping the residents of her parents' nursing home, where she first began to recognize the demand of affordable home caregiving. Lisa also has personal experience caring for a loved one after her son's car accident, where she became a full-time caregiver for him. In 2013 Lisa took her desire to help an opened Home Helpers of Jamestown. Lisa is deeply involved in everything from hiring caregivers to interviewing families, making sure everyone finds their perfect match! Learn more about Lisa and her team here!