As the pandemic continues, people are looking for new ways to stay healthy and keep their immune systems strong. Eating right can help us look and feel our best. For older adults, several superfoods are said to promote better health.
Apples are an excellent source of soluble fibre. They’re rich in potassium, vitamin C and have even been linked to lower blood pressure. Apple skin also contains an antioxidant that provides natural anti-inflammatory properties. Other fruits to consider incorporating into your diet as an older adult include blueberries, cherries, grapes, and pomegranate.
Dark, leafy greens are rich in vitamin K, which is valuable to older adults. Vitamin K helps blood clot when needed and can reduce the brittleness of bones. Kale is a popular option for greens, but alternatives include spinach, arugula, and dandelion greens. Other super-vegetables include sweet potato, asparagus, and broccoli.
Yogurt with probiotics has been linked to a healthier immune system. It can also be a delicious base to add other ingredients to like fruit, grains to further help with digestion, or even a touch of cinnamon to sweeten the dish and possibly reduce cholesterol. For people with diabetes, cinnamon has been shown to help cut blood sugar levels.
Chickpeas, otherwise known as the garbanzo bean, are a superb source of fibre, folate, and manganese. They also hold a significant amount of protein, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus that help with digestion, muscle and nerve function, and maintenance of cells and tissues. Other beans to consider as an older adult are pinto beans, red beans, black beans, and kidney beans.
While you might be surprised to find chocolate on this list, dark chocolate in small amounts can be good for you. Dark chocolate can boost heart health and the immune system. It has also been said to reduce blood pressure and decrease the chance of strokes and heart attacks. A taste in the afternoon or evening might even improve sleep quality.
Before starting a new diet, or if you have further questions about nutrition, we encourage you to speak with your doctor.
At Seasons, we know food plays a significant role in how our residents feel about living with us, so they must enjoy the meals we prepare for them. To achieve this, we hire skilled chefs who love food as much as our residents do. Our dining services teams know what it takes to ensure meals are healthy and well-balanced without compromising taste and presentation.
To learn more, we encourage you to watch one of our latest webinars. Carol Donovan, a Registered Dietitian and President of Seasons Care Dietitian Network, shares tips for healthy eating as we age and information about the commitment Seasons Retirements Communities has made to offer various delicious, well-balanced, and healthy food choices.
For more information on retirement living at Seasons, we encourage you to speak with the Leasing Manager at your desired location or complete our contact form to arrange a virtual or in-person visit. You can rest assured that all visits will be scheduled following COVID-19 safety measures. For the most up-to-date protocols, see our Company tab.