Many people aren’t aware that some foods can increase inflammation in the body. If you are caring for your elderly loved one and they are experiencing inflammation issues, it could be due to the foods they are eating (or the ones they aren’t eating). The good news is that you can learn about reducing inflammation in the body through foods, and how your senior can eat better with the help of home care assistance.
Getting More Antioxidants
One of the most important things for reducing inflammation in the body is to add more antioxidants into the diet. These are a must. Studies show antioxidants help to fight off illnesses, reduce inflammation, and prevent free radical damage in the body. To help your elderly loved one get more antioxidants in their diet, you and home care assistance providers should encourage them to eat more fruits and vegetables.
Adding in the Omega-3s
Your elderly loved one may need more omega-3s in their diet if they are experiencing inflammation issues, as well. Research shows that omega-3s help to prevent and get rid of inflammation. Some of the top foods your elderly loved one should be eating to add in more omega-3s to their diet include:
- Salmon
- Mackerels
- Fish oils
- Sardines
If needed and your elderly loved one’s doctor gives the okay, there are even omega-3 supplements they can take.
Increase the Fiber
Your elderly loved one will likely need to increase their fiber intake, too. There are so many senior citizens who aren’t getting enough fiber in their diet. Fiber is essential for preventing constipation, reducing inflammation, and preventing a lot of gut issues, too. The good news is there are numerous foods that are filled with fiber. Some of the best foods that you and home care providers can encourage your elderly loved one to eat include:
- Granola bars
- Oatmeal
- Whole-wheat pastas or cereals
- Avocados
- Lentils
- Oranges
- Broccoli
You or a home care assistance provider can even look up high fiber meals for your elderly loved one. Then, whoever is making the meals that day or week can incorporate those foods into the meal planning.
Getting More Polyphenols
Many people aren’t sure what polyphenols are and that is alright. However, it is important to know the basics of them. They are a protective plant compound that helps to lower inflammation and improve overall health, too. Some of the things that have the highest polyphenol content include:
- Herbs
- Spices
- Berries
- Dark chocolate
If you and home care assistance providers can get your elderly loved one to eat more of these things, they might be surprised as to how much it reduces the discomfort they feel. The primary reason for that is because of the anti-inflammatory properties in these foods.
Now that you know more about the anti-inflammatory-based foods, you and elderly care providers can start encouraging your elderly loved one to eat more of the foods noted above. You can even help them by looking up inflammatory reduction meals each week.
Sources
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/how-to-use-food-to-help-your-body-fight-inflammation/art-20457586
If you or an aging loved one is considering home care assistance in Denver, CO, call the caring staff at SYNERGY Home Care of Denver today. 303-756-9322
