Heart conditions are some of the most common causes of poor health among seniors, so it’s important for them to keep their hearts as strong as possible. In addition to regularly exercising and maintaining a healthy weight, seniors can also increase their heart health by eating certain foods. Include these six foods in your elderly loved one’s diet to keep his or her heart in optimal condition.
1. Nuts
The omega-3 fatty acids in nuts protect against heart disease and promote regular heart rhythm and healthy blood pressure levels. These plant-based monounsaturated fats are great for lowering LDL cholesterol. Your loved one should try to consume at least five ounces of walnuts, almonds, pistachios, or cashews each week.
An in-home caregiver can ensure your loved one eats healthy meals and enjoys a higher quality of life. Families who need help caring for senior loved ones can turn to Embrace In-Home Care, a leading provider of home care service. Services available in our customizable care plans include meal prep, mental and social stimulation, assistance with personal hygiene tasks, and much more.
2. Red Grapes
The skin of red grapes contains a powerful antioxidant called resveratrol, a natural phenol that prevents blood platelets from clumping together into clots. Fresh red grapes, dried raisins, and red wine are all great sources of resveratrol.
3. Legumes
One of the most effective ways to protect the heart is by eating enough fiber. It helps seniors maintain a healthy weight and digest food properly, and it also lowers the levels of harmful LDL cholesterol. Legumes are a great source of fiber because of the protective coating on most peas and beans. Good types of legumes include black beans, pinto beans, chickpeas, and lentils.
4. Fatty Fish
Fatty fish, including salmon, tuna, mackerel, and sardines, are an invaluable source of healthy omega-3 fatty acids. These types of fish contain a different kind of omega-3s than the versions found in nuts, so seniors can protect their hearts even more. These healthy fats lower triglyceride levels and break up unhealthy fats. Many heart disease associations recommend people over the age of 65 eat at least two servings of fatty fish per week.
Professional caregivers can encourage seniors to switch to heart-healthy foods and help them prepare nutritious meals. 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 Embrace In-Home Care, a leading provider of live-in and respite care. Green Valley seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable respite caregivers.
5. Bananas
Bananas are a great source of potassium, which has a beneficial effect on heart health. Potassium helps the body balance water levels and prevents thickened blood that causes high blood pressure. Make sure your loved one drinks at least eight cups of water a day to increase the health benefits of bananas.
6. Raspberries
These berries are an ideal source of antioxidants, manganese, and vitamin C. All the antioxidants in raspberries have a protective effect that keeps oxidative stress from damaging the body. Raspberry seeds are a good source of fiber.
Seniors who want to maintain their health and wellbeing and prevent a number of health conditions can benefit from the assistance of at-home caregivers. Many older adults are choosing to age in place, and some need a helping hand to continue living at home safely and comfortably. Luckily, there is professional senior home care Green Valley seniors can trust and rely on. Embrace In-Home Care will work with you to customize a care plan that’s just right for your loved one’s needs. Call us today at [hca_phone] to discuss how we can give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing your loved one is being cared for with professionalism and compassion.