There is a lot of information out there regarding which foods older adults should eat for better health. After all, superfoods like avocados and walnuts are excellent for both the body and the brain. You or your aging loved one should, however, avoid some harmful foods that may increase the risk of health problems. Read on to learn about the foods you should avoid for healthy aging.
Frozen French Fries
The elderly are generally aware of the dangers of fast-food French fries. They may, however, prefer frozen hash browns and other goods that have been flash-fried before being packed. This technique already adds fat to them and frying them adds another layer of grease. Try roasting sweet potatoes in the oven to make a healthier alternative. Sweet potatoes are higher in nutrients and lower in starch than white potatoes.
Processed Meat
Savory protein sources include luncheon meat, ham, and bacon. They are, however, high in salt and fat, and some even include sugar. To achieve their protein requirements, the elderly should consume lean, unprocessed meat. A simple filet of fish or grilled chicken breast is a terrific option to serve to your older loved one.
Canned Vegetables and Soup
As they simply require heating and may stay months on the pantry shelf, canned products are the perfect convenience meal for older adults. However, canned products are high in salt. Too much salt dehydrates older adults and can contribute to high blood pressure. If your loved one insists on canned products, tell them to select ones with no added salt.
Margarine and Butter
Many older adults were raised on butter and were told that margarine was a healthier choice if they wanted to save calories. Both of them, however, are known to raise cholesterol levels. To create a comparable flavor and texture in your loved one’s dish, replace margarine and butter with healthy alternatives such as olive oil.
Dairy Products
Older adults are frequently advised to consume more dairy products because they include bone-strengthening calcium and vitamin D. Whole milk and full-fat cheese, on the other hand, are high in calories and can boost cholesterol levels. Encourage your loved one to choose low-fat variants wherever feasible to reap the benefits without the bad health consequences.
Sweet Baked Goods
Baked cake, bread, and other treats are high in carbs, which the body converts to sugar. The effects are exacerbated when sugar is added to baked items such as doughnuts. Older adults should pick whole grain baked goods that are not coated with sugar.
Choose Our Retirement Community
Our retirement community offers Assisted Living and Memory Care on the same campus, making it the best option for meeting our residents’ requirements, especially if those needs change or escalate in the future. Our Assisted Living option allows our residents to live a more active and maintenance-free lifestyle with support and care whenever and wherever it is required. Residents of our Memory Care option will receive specialized care and memory loss programs in an environment that helps them feel at ease.
