The Benefits of the Mediterranean Diet for Seniors
With our busy lifestyles, we do not always have the time to prepare healthy meals. Instead, we grab whatever we can from the nearest fast-food establishment as we head back to the office for a meeting. As long as we eat something, we feel content and energized; the last thing on our minds would be how the food was prepared.
However, as a leading provider of in-home senior care in Fairfield, we know that good habits start early. Even though we may be able to get away with eating anything that comes our way now, we put ourselves in danger of developing diseases and health problems later in life if we do not choose our foods carefully. Thus, researchers have shown that the Mediterranean diet is ideal for living a long, healthy life.As we get older, the likelihood of becoming sick increases. Therefore, researchers have shown that following the Mediterranean diet can help reduce the chances of developing a serious illness and dying prematurely. By replacing a diet enriched with saturated fats and red meat with five servings of fresh fruits and vegetables daily, we are reducing our chances of raising our blood pressure and cholesterol levels –both of which are responsible for developing heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and multiple types of cancer. Furthermore, health experts suggest that drinking a glass of red wine and using olive oil when cooking can help maintain a healthy heart.Although we place much emphasis on being healthy physically, we cannot neglect our brains.
As we get older, the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease increases. Besides engaging in activities that stimulate the mind, we should try to incorporate fish into our daily diets. Not only do fish like salmon help the cardiovascular system, but also the brain since it contains omega-3 fatty acids that can help keep the brain stronger and healthier.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is not easy. We are surrounded by so many sweet and salty temptations in our everyday life that we have difficulty trying to adapt to a diet that seems bland in comparison. However, substituting a doughnut for an apple is a small price to pay for a long, healthy life.If you are concerned about an aging loved one’s eating habits, reach out to Home Care Assistance of Fairfield for advice on senior health and nutrition. Our Fairfield in-home caregivers are highly trained in our Balanced Care Method™ which promotes healthy eating, daily activity, social ties and calmness and purpose.Call a friendly Care Manager today at 203-439-5780 and request a complimentary in-home consultation and learn more about live-in and hourly care in Fairfield, CT.