Protecting the heart is one thing seniors living at home need to practice daily. While some heart diseases and conditions are genetic and unavoidable, many of them are controllable and preventable. Developing healthy habits is important for the aging population, and it starts with what they put inside their body. Here are five categories of superfoods to help keep your heart as healthy as possible.
Whole Grains Rich In Fiber
When shopping for grains, be sure to look for whole grains rather than processed grains. Consuming processed grains can raise your cholesterol levels, while whole grains manage cholesterol. Having normal cholesterol levels is critical for preventing heart disease, so incorporate foods like oatmeal, whole-grain tortillas or bread, and rice to get a healthy serving of whole grains rich in fiber.
Leafy Green Vegetables
Incorporating leafy green vegetables into your regular diet is one of the greatest healthy habits you can develop. Things like kale, spinach, and collard greens have excellent sources of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins needed to keep the body healthy. Getting plenty of vitamin K is vital for seniors since it is great for protecting arteries. Vitamin K is prevalent in leafy green vegetables, so be diligent in getting enough of them daily.
Lean Proteins
Not all proteins are created equally. Lean sources of protein include skinless chicken, fish, eggs, cheese, and low-fat yogurt. You still want to incorporate a mix of leafy green vegetables, but a small portion of lean protein at every meal should be prioritized for seniors living at home.
Avocados
Avocados have their own category as a superfood since people can’t agree whether they are considered a fruit or a vegetable. However, most experts agree that avocados provide people with a great source of healthy, monounsaturated fats. Incorporating the proper amount of these types of healthy fats into your diet can help regulate cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of developing heart disease at the same time.
Fruits And Vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables should be a part of every meal for seniors living at home. And if you don’t have access to fresh fruits and vegetables, then frozen ones are viable options as well. Assuming you have freezer space, consider keeping it stocked with healthy frozen food options, so you’ll always have them accessible. Things to avoid with fruits and vegetables are canned foods since they often contain a high amount of sodium and other unhealthy preservatives.
Next Day Access wants to help the aging population live long and healthy lives at home. The food you eat daily plays a significant role in your overall health and physical ability, so it’s important to prioritize it and meal plan appropriately. A healthy mix of a good diet and exercise can keep seniors living at home for a long time, and we have products and tools to help you move in and around your home with ease. Don’t hesitate to contact us at any time to schedule a free home assessment and see how we can help.
