Proper diet and a healthy life go hand in hand, especially for adults over 65. According to reports by World Health Organization (WHO), most of the diseases that older people suffer are a result of a lack of proper diet. For example, bad fat in food is linked to prostate cancer, colon cancer, and pancreas cancer. We want to help our seniors and those in our community stay on a healthy diet!
Foods High in Omega-3
Fatty acids are very important for all ages, specifically seniors. Evidence has shown that intaking fatty acids reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and even heart disease! You can find these fatty acids in fish like tuna or salmon. Omega-3 can also be found in non-seafoods like soybeans, canola oil, walnuts, and flaxseed!
Calcium
Calcium also plays a very important role in our diet. It helps keep our bones strong and lowers blood pressure. Studies show that as we get older, we consume less calcium. If your body does not receive the proper amount of calcium it needs, it begins to reabsorb calcium from the bones. When our bodies do that, that causes our bones to be brittle and fragile. Foods rich in calcium are the obvious milk, yogurt, and cheese, but calcium can also be found in leafy green vegetables!
Fiber
Fiber is great for reducing the risk of heart disease. Fiber helps proper digestion by moving food through the digestive tract. This is especially important because our digestive system slows down as we get older. Foods rich in fiber include brown rice, fruits, vegetables, and wholegrain bread/pasta!
Water
Last but certainly not least, water! All adults should be drinking eight glasses of water a day. As you get older, your body stops telling you that it is thirsty. However, you still need to drink water! One tip that helps you drink water includes putting water in a small container and refilling it often, rather than one huge jug of water. That can make one feel overwhelmed!
At Evergreen Senior Living in Orland Park, we care about the health and wellness of our residents. Check out the different dining options we provide for our seniors by scheduling a tour through our website!