Many seniors suffer from dehydration-related conditions and vitamin deficiencies as the body ages. So for seniors, a proper diet is vital to reduce the risk of developing an illness, enhance longevity, and increase energy levels. 

Good nutrition can significantly reduce and prevent the severity of their health issues. But, making diet modifications with healthy food and finding recipes for elderly parents is usually easier said than done. Loss of appetite, mobility issues, and illness can hinder a senior’s ability to eat the right food.

Ensuring a Healthy and Balanced Diet For Your Elderly

There are plenty of ways to help seniors in eating healthy. Consuming a wide range of food will provide the required nutrition as they get older.

Switching out junk foods to fresh fruits, hiding vegetables in delicious smoothies, and eating a variety of fiber-rich foods are just a few ways seniors can stay healthy.

In addition, here is what you can do to ensure your loved elderly consume a balanced diet.

• Include vegetables and fruits in their diet. They can be frozen, fresh, or canned. Make them eat more dark green vegetables like leafy greens, broccoli, and orange vegetables like pumpkin, carrots, and sweet potatoes.

• Include a variety of proteins, including peas, beans, and fish, in their daily diet.

• Help them consume at least 3 ounces of whole-grain cereals, crackers, bread, pasta, and rice daily.

• Include three servings of fat-free or low-fat dairy (milk, yogurt, cheese) enhanced with Vitamin D. It will keep your elderly’s bones healthy.

Here is the list of superfoods, along with their advantages, recommended for seniors.

Whole Grains

Whole grains are high in fiber, which assists in digestion and defends the body from illnesses. The most nutritious whole grains are oatmeal, wheat germ, brown rice, and quinoa.

Leafy Greens

Add green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, arugula in salad or pasta sauce. These leafy greens are loaded with large amounts of Vitamin K, which aid blood clots and decrease bones’ fragility.

Beans

Beans rank at the top of the list in terms of antioxidants. The red beans contain more per serving of vitamins, protein, calcium, and fiber. Pinto beans, kidney beans, and black beans are great choices for their high antioxidant content.

Blueberries

Blueberries are amazing antioxidants that help fight heart diseases. Serve them with yogurt, or mix with oatmeal to get additional fiber in breakfast.

Tomatoes

Lycopene present in tomatoes is a highly potent antioxidant. It reduces the chance of developing gut or prostate cancer.

Green Tea

Green tea boosts body metabolism and helps in digestion and. For constipation or diarrhea, green tea could provide relief. It is rich in vitamins and nutrients and a great appetite suppressor.

Salmon

Salmon is a rich source of Omega 3 fats. Omega 3 fatty acids help lower the amount of blood fat in the body and, in turn, help reduce the risk of developing heart diseases. Consume it with whole-grain such as brown rice and green vegetables for an utterly healthy dinner.

Cinnamon

Consumption of cinnamon as a supplement can help lower cholesterol levels and is comparable to statin medications. Additionally, it allows the body to use insulin more efficiently and reduces blood sugar levels by 30 %.

Final Word

A balanced diet is a crucial aspect of maintaining your health as you grow older. As the body’s metabolism slows down, we require fewer calories than before. The body also needs higher levels of certain nutrients.

Hopefully, the above list of superfoods will benefit your loved elderly. Have any questions? Ask us in the comments!