Many foods that are considered to be unhealthy actually provide numerous benefits for seniors. When live-in Palm Harbor caregivers include these foods in their senior loved one’s diet, it can help prevent cognitive decline, heart disease, and other chronic diseases. Here are seven healthy foods with bad reputations.
The problem isn’t the potato because they’re really quite nutritious. Potato skins in particular are rich in antioxidants. The problem lies in the preparation. Skip the butter, salt, sour cream, and cheese and you’re left with a nutritious side to any meal.
Eating nuts is a powerful means of lowering risk for heart disease. Those that eat nuts tend to weigh less, too. This is because sterols in nuts can lower cholesterol. Studies show that eating one ounce of nuts per day can significantly lower the risk of developing a cardiovascular disease.
3. Dark Chocolate
It may seem like a dangerously sweet treat, but in reality, dark chocolate is loaded with antioxidants. It’s also been known to thin blood clots, enhance cognitive performance in seniors, and reduce blood pressure.
They’re high in fat, but they are also high in several essential vitamins and minerals. The monounsaturated fat in avocados is believed to be good for your heart and for macular health.
The flavonoids found in coffee are thought to be responsible for its numerous health benefits. Specifically, it has been found to be good for your brain and your liver. Coffee may even help lower the risk of developing type-2 diabetes.
6. Whole Eggs
It turns out that eating cholesterol-rich foods has little to no effect on the level of cholesterol in the blood. Eggs, for example, are highly nutritious and satiating. Those who eat eggs in the morning tend to eat less later in the day.
7. White Rice
White rice gets a bad rap for its high glycemic level. It is on the high side, but only when eaten alone. White rice is more nutritious than brown rice because white rice sold in the United States is enriched. Rice often accompanies meals with other healthy items, usually vegetables.
Learn more about senior nutrition from leading Clearwater Home Care providers like Home Care Assistance. Our reliable caregivers work around a flexible live-in or hourly schedule to help your loved one eat nutritious meals and engage in physical exercise to boost physical wellbeing. Additionally, we help seniors manage daily tasks around the house such as cooking, cleaning, medication reminders, and even prescription pick-ups. Call (727) 330-7862 today to learn more about our comprehensive services and customize a care plan with a trusted Care Manager.