While it's crucial to maintain a healthy diet at any age, Seniors must pay extra attention to what they eat. Eating well can help you maintain a healthy weight, stay energized, and get the essential nutrients you need. It also lowers the risk of developing chronic health conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease.
About one in four Seniors experience poor nutrition, and malnutrition puts you at risk of becoming overweight or underweight. It can also weaken your bones and muscles and leave you vulnerable to disease. For Seniors to meet nutritional needs, you must eat foods rich in fiber, minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients. Including brain vitamins for a healthier brain is essential. Try to limit foods that are high in processed sugars, trans and saturated fats, and salt. Depending on your overall health condition, you might have to adjust your diet and cut out items like gluten or red meat.
Are you worried about developing Alzheimer’s disease, Dementia, or merely concerned about maintaining a sharp mind as you get older? Ask your Personal Support Worker (PSW) from your trusted home care agency to help you create a broader meal plan that includes healthy choices. Several superfoods can help increase your brain's functionality that are excellent additions to a nutritional, well-balanced diet.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are loaded with antioxidants and Omega-3 acids and have been linked to better brain function in old age. These ingredients have anti-inflammatory effects and can promote healthier brain cells and less deterioration of the brain. Nuts and seeds are also rich in vitamin E, which protects cells from free radicals' oxidative stress.
If you have sensitive teeth and gums, the idea of biting down on hard, crunchy almonds or hazelnuts might be less than ideal. Consider adding nut and seed butter to your diet to enjoy the food items' benefits without hurting your mouth. With a slice of toast smothered in a delicious nut or seed butter, you'll start the day with a healthy dose of protein and brain-boosting properties!
Oily Fish
For an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids that help build membranes around cells in the body and brain, try oily fish. Such fish improves the structure of brain cells and blood flow to the brain. Look for fish including:
- Salmon
- Mackerel
- Sardines
- Herring
- Trout
- And more
Studies have also shown that oily fish can also reduce inflammation and lower the risk of developing cancer, arthritis, and heart disease.
Berries
Many berries contain flavonoid antioxidants, which have positive effects on the brain, including:
- Reducing inflammation throughout the body
- Improving communication between brain cells
- Increasing plasticity, which aids brain cells to form new connections, boosting memory and learning
- Reducing or delaying age-related neurodegenerative diseases
Not only are they good for you, but berries are also delicious. Look for blueberries, strawberries, black currents, mulberries, raspberries, and cranberries. They make wonderful cereal toppers, and you can also add them to your breakfast smoothie.
Who said eating healthy had to be boring? With these yummy items, you’ll feel better — and smarter — in no time!
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