Part of keeping your senior as healthy as possible involves helping her to eat foods that keep her immune system in good condition. Here are some foods to consider.
Herbs and Spices
Herbs and spices do more than just flavor foods. They’re a significant source of immune-boosting ingredients, too. Garlic, onions, turmeric, and ginger all have strong anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties. For centuries they’ve been used medicinally, but they’re also tasty in recipes.
Foods High in Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a huge immunity booster on its own, but foods that are high in vitamin C have the benefit of offering other nutrients that offer antioxidant properties. Berries, particularly blueberries, are high in flavonoids as well as vitamin C. Citrus fruits are also high in vitamin C and can give your senior’s immune system what it needs.
Yogurt or Kefir
Yogurt and kefir are both fermented foods that are high in probiotics. There’s a connection between probiotics and reducing inflammation and increasing the benefits of antioxidants in the body, but scientists are still working on understanding those connections. In the meantime, the probiotics definitely help with gut health.
Dark Leafy Greens
Dark leafy greens are a frequent recommendation for healthy eating overall, but it’s because these leaves are full of flavonoids, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Those are the same nutrients that can significantly boost your senior’s immune system and help her to be as healthy as possible.
Foods High in Vitamin A
Another good choice for a healthy immune system is food that has a high level of vitamin A. Usually foods that are high in beta carotene, another good-for-you antioxidant, are good choices because the body converts that beta carotene into vitamin A. Foods like carrots and sweet potatoes are excellent options.
Oily Fish
Fish that is high in omega-3 fatty acid also helps to keep the immune system in tip top shape. The types of fish to look for include tuna, sardines, and salmon, among other oily fish. Omega-3 fatty acids help with inflammation, too, which might be a key part of keeping your senior’s immune system strong.
It’s also a good idea to talk to your senior’s doctor about which foods she should be eating more often. Keep in mind that one of the barriers to eating healthier is often that it’s more difficult to cook those foods than to eat convenience foods. Having senior care providers taking care of the cooking for your senior can keep her on target.
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE IS CONSIDERING SENIOR CARE IN HENDERSON, NV, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT GOLDEN HEART SENIOR CARE OF SUMMERLIN. 702-800-4616.