Five Foods that Seniors Need to Eat Now!
As we age, maintaining a healthy and well-balanced diet becomes more important. To help prevent common age-related health issues, seniors can prioritize foods that offer different kinds of health benefits. The ever so powerful superfoods are a great place to start because they are rich in incredibly beneficial compounds and nutrients. As you can imagine, they become even more vital for older adults who are more vulnerable to certain diseases because of a weakened immune system. Thankfully, there are plenty of healthy options out there! Let’s explore five tasty and nutritious foods that all seniors can enjoy.
Top Five Foods for Seniors
- Blueberries
Whether eaten with yogurt, oatmeal, or even dessert, blueberries are rich in antioxidants and have been directly tied to improved cognitive function and overall brain health! They are also rich in several valuable nutrients, including both vitamins C and K and manganese. Additionally, blueberries are one of the best superfoods for seniors because of their vast heart health benefits. Between their antioxidants and fiber content, blueberries can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes.
- Tomatoes
Tomatoes are rich in essential nutrients that support overall senior health and well-being, such as potassium and folate. A great addition to any salad, sandwich, or baked dish, tomatoes’ potassium content makes them another excellent choice for heart health, as potassium regulates blood pressure and reduces the risk of heart disease. Tomatoes are also great for your eyes, thanks to being a great source of Vitamin A! This vitamin helps protect the eyes from age-related conditions like macular degeneration and cataracts.
- Salmon
A superfood that all seafood lovers can enjoy, salmon boasts a wide variety of senior health benefits. Salmon is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which assist in reducing the risk of heart disease through lowering levels of triglycerides, reducing inflammation, and improving blood vessel function. It is also an excellent source of high-quality protein and great for preserving muscle mass and strength in seniors. There are also plenty of bone health advantages in salmon, as it is a great source of Vitamin D and ideal for maintaining strong bones and reducing the risk of fractures.
- Beans and Legumes
They may be small, but beans and legumes are superfoods that all seniors should include in their diets! Their inflammatory properties are tremendous for heart health, as they help lower cholesterol levels and improve the overall function of blood vessels. Beans and legumes are incredibly versatile and delicious option to add to just about any dish! They have countless senior health benefits as they are a great source of vitamins, proteins, fiber, and calcium. The best options to add to your diet are black beans, red beans, lentils, and pinto beans!
- Dark Chocolate
Here’s something sweet all seniors can add to their diet to improve their health! Dark chocolate has a host of nutritional benefits that can positively impact your health in many ways. Not only does this treat contribute to both heart and brain health, but it also serves as a natural stress reliever thanks to compounds that trigger the release of endorphins and serotonin. As you can see, dark chocolate is the perfect healthy snack for any sweet tooth. Of course, it is worth noting that its countless health advantages are most pronounced when consumed in moderation!
Dine Deliciously in Gloucester County, NJ
As a premier senior community in Gloucester County, NJ, United Methodist Communities at Pitman offers a tranquil neighborhood-like setting with services ranging from assisted living, memory care, respite care, skilled nursing, rehab, and hospice. We take pride in the food we serve our residents and are far from the “cafeteria setting” you may envision in other communities. With an Executive Chef and a devoted Dietary Team, UMC at Pitman prioritizes the dining experience with delicious and nutritional meals on the menu every day.
To learn more about all the amazing dining options at United Methodist Communities at Pitman, click here.
