If your senior loved one is like most aging adults, he or she has a veritable pharmacy in his or her kitchen. Tucked within the fridge and pantry are a bounty of foods with healing properties. Read on to learn about the remedies you’ll find in the refrigerator and behind cabinet doors.
1. Apples
Apples combat a variety of health-related issues, including diabetes, stroke, and cancer. They’re effective against heartburn thanks to pectin, a soluble fiber that absorbs stomach acid. Malic acid and tartaric acid also stop the backflow of gastric juices from the stomach, and apples work at the cellular level to restore pH balance and prevent reflux.
An apple a day also keeps allergies at bay. The fruit is one of the best dietary sources of quercetin, a flavonoid that protects against allergic reactions.
2. Bananas
Bananas are effective in treating depression because they contain tryptophan, an amino acid used by the body to produce mood-boosting brain chemicals. Bananas also ward off nocturnal leg cramps, and the vitamin B6 in bananas protects against type 2 diabetes. Their high level of potassium lowers blood pressure and deters stroke and heart attack, while the pectin in bananas aids digestion.
If you’re looking for ways to boost your loved one’s health, consider hiring a professional caregiver. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional homecare. Embrace In-Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
3. Cinnamon
This sweet, aromatic spice lowers blood pressure, prevents infection, and has a tranquilizing effect that reduces anxiety and stress. Research conducted by the US Department of Agriculture has shown that cinnamon reduces the risk of heart disease because its antioxidant effect prevents inflammation and tissue damage associated with hardening of the arteries.
Animal studies conducted by the National Institutes of Health found that cinnamon also protects against Parkinson’s disease. Cinnamon was shown to increase motor function, normalize neurotransmitter levels, and safeguard nerve cells from damage.
Certain age-related conditions can make it more challenging for seniors to age in place safely and comfortably, but Green Valley live-in care experts are available around the clock to help seniors manage their health. Whether your loved one is living with dementia or recovering from a stroke, you can trust the professional live-in caregivers from Embrace In-Home Care to enhance his or her quality of life.
4. Honey
Nature’s sweetest treat has been shown to heal a scratchy throat and subdue coughs thanks to its antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Honey’s antibacterial quality prevents ulcers and gastroenteritis and makes it effective for healing wounds and burns. Honey also contains flavonoids, which reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.
Home remedies can be quite effective for preventing and alleviating symptoms of a wide range of conditions commonly found among aging adults. Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted Green Valley elderly home care provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Embrace In-Home Care is here to help. Call us at (520) 625-2050 to learn about our comprehensive in-home care plans.