Senior stroke survivors living with diabetes have a higher risk of recurrent strokes, but a healthy diet can lower those odds. Consuming the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients the body needs can also control diabetes. Take a look at a few healthy foods for stroke survivors who have diabetes and the many benefits each item provides.
1. Greek Yogurt
This natural source of probiotics is high in protein and calcium, and it has lower sodium content than other yogurts and most dairy products. Greek yogurt can stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce heart disease, mainly because of the probiotics this dairy choice contains. If your senior loved one wants more flavor, add fresh berries to the Greek yogurt instead of purchasing products made with artificial sweeteners.
Recovering from a stroke, managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, and a variety of other health-related situations can make it difficult for a senior to continue living at home without someone there to help. Lincoln, California, live-in care professionals are trained to help seniors who need 24/7 assistance. With the help of a live-in caregiver, your elderly loved one can maintain a higher quality of life while aging in place.
2. Fatty Fish
Salmon, tuna, trout, and low-mercury fish can be less challenging for senior stroke survivors to chew, preventing them from skipping meals and missing the nutrients they need to maintain good heart and brain health. Fatty fish contain omega-3 fatty acids that increase circulation and reduce the risk of plaque buildup and blockages. Oxygen-rich blood that flows easily to the brain can lower the risk of another stroke. Fish such as salmon and trout also contain EPA and DHA, which reduce inflammation, protect the blood vessels, and enhance artery function.
3. Broccoli
This vegetable provides seniors with fiber, calcium, vitamins, and other minerals they need to manage diabetes and recover from strokes. Broccoli can lower insulin levels and protect cells against free radicals.
Your loved one should avoid eating broccoli sold in steam bags that need to be heated up before serving. The chemicals from steam bag veggies can lead to high blood pressure and increased cholesterol levels, raising the risk of diabetic problems and recurrent strokes. Stick with fresh broccoli and healthy frozen options.
Dietary issues can make caring for an aging adult after a stroke increasingly challenging. If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of at-home care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services.
4. Squash
Squash is one of the healthiest vegetables, and senior stroke survivors can swallow and digest it with more ease. Squash is full of antioxidants that reduce the cell damage seniors experience due to strokes. The antioxidants in squash also fight against oxidative stress, which is common in adults with diabetes. The vegetable is filling, lowering the risk of overeating. Seniors with diabetes who are recovering from strokes need to consume as many low-calorie, high-nutrient foods as possible to manage their weight and prevent insulin problems.
5. Eggs
One of the amazing health benefits of eggs is that they can keep seniors full for hours. Adding eggs to your loved one’s weekly diet could increase his or her good cholesterol levels, enhance insulin sensitivity, and reduce inflammation. Eating eggs can also lower the risk of a recurrent stroke, boosting recovery odds. To make sure your loved one eats at least one egg per day, try to cook a variety of dishes that contain eggs, including omelets, eggs and avocados on whole-grain toast, and salads topped with eggs and other healthy foods.
Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted Lincoln in-home care provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Home Care Assistance is here to help. If you need professional home care for your loved one, reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (916) 226-3737.