20 Best Food For Seniors
Introduction
The definition of “senior” is a person who has lived a long time. That means that it is important for seniors to eat a well-balanced diet not only to improve their overall health but also to help them stay sharp and feel younger.
We all know how important good nutrition is, but it’s not always easy to figure out what exactly is the best food for seniors. The decision isn’t perfect from a dietary perspective either, so you need to weigh your own needs and lifestyle against the general needs of senior citizens. For instance, if dairy products make you break out in hives, then yogurt probably isn’t the right choice. If you’re vegan, then it’s probably not the best option either.
Benefits of eating healthy foods for seniors is for more than just their physical well-being, but it also helps with cognitive function, mood stabilizer and they provide balanced nutrients to help maintain strong bones.
There are many food choices for seniors, including vegetables, meats, dairy products, and fruits. This article provides tips on what to include in your senior’s diet
What Are The Best Foods For Seniors?
1. Garlics
Garlic is great food for seniors because of its powerful anti-inflammatory benefits which helps in fighting against damaging effects of chronic diseases like diabetes, atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. It’s also an antimicrobial, antibacterial and it reduces the risk of infections. It is a natural antioxidant, which means that it’s great for fighting against free radicals and inflammation.
2. Salmon
Salmon is a healthy food for seniors since they help to improve heart health, boost immunity and aid in the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease by keeping the brain healthy. It is also a food that can help with memory loss because it has been shown to increase the amount of gray matter in the brain by as much as 10%. In addition to all these benefits, salmon contains protein and omega-3 fatty acids which are both essential for good health.
3. Oats
Oats can be a healthy food for seniors since it is packed with many nutrients like fiber, selenium, vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids. Eating oats as a cereal or as a snack can help prevent cognitive decline and depression. It is also an important food for those who suffer from diabetes.
4. Olive Oil
Another great thing about olive oil is that it contains nutrients like good fat and antioxidants to help improve your skin and improve your hair and nails. One study found that adults aged 60 years and older should consume two tablespoons of olive oil per day, to help maintain healthy heart function.
5. Chicken
Chicken is a great food for seniors since it’s high in protein and a good source of vitamin B12, which is an essential vitamin, so those who are deficient in B12 should eat more chicken as a source of B12. It is also an excellent source of zinc. In addition, chicken contains niacin and selenium that can help prevent cognitive decline.
6. Fatty Fish
Fish that have oily coating should be included in the diet because they contain omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients. Omega-3 fatty acids can lower the levels of triglycerides and cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart diseases and oxidative damage.
7. Herbal Tea
Herbal tea is a healthy drink for seniors, especially those who suffer from insomnia, stress and anxiety because it contains chamomile which has calming effects on the body. Chamomile tea also has anti-inflammatory properties as well as antioxidant properties.
8. Apples
Apples are a great food for seniors because they contain vitamin C and other antioxidants that can help prevent cardiovascular disease and cancer. They also contain potassium that can keep your blood pressure down for an optimal heart health.
9. Peanuts
Peanuts are rich in protein, which is essential for seniors who suffer from cognitive decline or dementia because it has been shown to protect the brain cells. Peanuts also contain good lipids and healthy fats, which can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
10. Brussels Sprouts
Brussels Sprouts are high in nutrients like vitamin C, dietary fiber, calcium, folic acid and B6 that can help with cognition and help fight against dementia. It also contains sulforaphane that can act as an anti-cancer agent.
11. Pork
Pork is a great choice of meat for seniors because it is high in protein, which is essential to get the good nutrition that your body needs. It also contains niacin and zinc, which are both essential nutrients that can help with cognitive decline.
12. Yogurt
Yogurt is a great food for seniors since it’s rich in probiotics that can help boost immunity and help fight against cognitive decline by keeping the brain healthy. It also contains B12, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D3 and other nutrients.
13. Lentils
Lentils are high in folic acid which helps prevent cognitive decline by making the memory of older people better. They are also rich in vitamin B1 which helps with mental performance, heart disease and brain function.
14. Avocados
Avocados are a great fruit that is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat and that can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke by reducing the bad cholesterol. It also contains heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, acerola cherries, vitamin E and other nutrients.
15. Eggs
Eggs are a good source of B12, which can help prevent cognitive decline. They also contain zinc which helps with the immune system and brain function.
16. Nuts
Nuts can be a healthy food for seniors since they contain omega-3 fatty acids that help improve heart health and lower bad cholesterol levels. They also contain vitamin E, which helps to improve memory and prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
17. Bananas
Bananas are a great fruit for seniors since they contain vitamin B6 and potassium that can help keep the heart healthy and keep blood pressure down. They also contain folate which is essential for pregnancy and for healthy brain development in children.
18. Whole Grains
Whole grains like quinoa, oatmeal and brown rice can be included in the diet to help maintain strong bones. They are rich in protein, fiber and other nutrients that help improve heart health and protect against heart disease, stroke and cancer by preventing oxidative damage.
19. Sweet Potato
Sweet Potatoes are a great source of vitamins and minerals that can play a role in preventing cognitive decline such as vitamin E, which helps to protect against heart disease and stroke by keeping the arteries clear. It also contains zinc, which is essential for brain function and cognition.
20. Beans
Beans are great for seniors because they contain fiber that can help lower blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels. They are also rich in folate which helps to prevent cancer, cognitive decline and birth defects. In addition, beans contain magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin C and other nutrients that can protect the heart from cardiovascular disease and lower blood pressure.
Conclusion
Food has a huge impact on your health and nutrition plays a significant role in the development and progression of Alzheimer’s disease. A healthy diet should be high in nutrients like vitamin E, vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and other nutrients that can help prevent coronary heart disease and other cardiovascular diseases. It should also be low in saturated fat, trans fat and other unhealthy fats for optimal heart health. If you have been diagnosed with Dementia or Alzheimer’s Disease, please consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet because your case may have its own needs.