There’s no rule that says senior diets have to be bland. In fact, spicing things up diet-wise can be a good thing for seniors, since many delicious spices also have beneficial properties that can address common age-related health concerns. Here are some beneficial spices that can easily be incorporated into your aging loved one’s daily diet.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is an excellent source of natural antioxidants that can fend off free radicals (unstable molecules) that damage healthy cells, possibly offering some benefits for seniors living with conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Cinnamon can also keep blood sugar levels in check, which is a plus for seniors with diabetes.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Sage
Easily sprinkled on “earthy” foods like casseroles and hearty soups for added flavor, sage is especially beneficial for seniors with memory issues due to various forms of dementia. Sage also helps with digestion.
If your loved one needs help planning and preparing nutritious meals, a home caregiver can be a wonderful source of support. Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them attain this goal. Families can trust Lincoln home care service experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living longer and healthier lives.
Turmeric
Just a sprinkle of turmeric can add some flavor to things like salads, lentil soup, and Greek yogurt while providing some benefits for seniors at risk for developing heart disease. It may also fend off certain cancers, according to recent research. It’s also important to keep in mind that high doses of turmeric may cause issues with blood clotting, so be mindful of how much is used at any one time.
Ginger
For seniors who have a fondness for Asian and Indian cooking, it won’t be difficult to find some dishes that could use a little ginger. It’s also good in black tea and some soups. Ginger can pass food along through the intestines to aid with digestion. Studies suggest it may also help with muscle pain and chronic inflammatory conditions.
Other beneficial spices include:
- Rosemary
- Basil
- Oregano
- Thyme
All of the above spices aren’t only flavorful. They’re also good sources of vitamin K and iron, both of which can counteract inflammation affecting joint pain and bowel movements.
Preparing nutritious meals is often an arduous task for family members. Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional respite care. Lincoln, CA, family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties can turn to Home Care Assistance. Using our proprietary Balanced Care Method, our respite caregivers can encourage your loved one to eat well, exercise regularly, get plenty of mental and social stimulation, and focus on other lifestyle factors that promote longevity. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (916) 226-3737 to schedule a free in-home consultation.