More and more people are beginning to follow a plant-based diet, which consists of foods derived from grains, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and fruits. The La Mesa elderly home care specialists at Coast Care Partners discuss a few reasons seniors should consume more plant-based foods.
1. Keep the Heart Strong
A 2017 study from Harvard University tracked over 110,000 subjects over the course of 14 years, and they found that those who eat more fruits and vegetables have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. A plant-based diet boosts heart health both by providing antioxidants and keeping cholesterol low.
2. Reduce the Grocery Budget
When most people start thinking about a plant-based diet, they primarily think about all the great ways it can boost their health. However, this type of diet may also offer the benefit of lowering the grocery bill each month. Beans, rice, and other staples on a plant-based diet tend to be far cheaper than cuts of meat. For seniors living on fixed incomes, the amount of money saved by switching to a plant-based diet can be very valuable.
3. Get Important Nutrients
Seniors following a plant-based diet typically don’t have to worry about deficiencies in certain vitamins. All the vitamin C found in things like citrus and kale keep the immune system strong, while the vitamin A in carrots, spinach, squash, and corn can reduce the chances of macular degeneration.
4. Boost Brain Health
Brain health is strongly linked to a healthy circulatory system because the brain needs a strong blood flow to bring it nutrients and take away toxins. Switching to a plant-based diet lowers blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which prevents the brain from getting damaged by strokes and other cardiovascular conditions. All the omega-3 fatty acids found in nuts and seeds can further boost cognitive health.
5. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Since obesity is linked to higher rates of cancer, diabetes, heart issues, and arthritis, it’s crucial for seniors to keep their weight low. Protein and fat have higher amounts of calories than carbohydrates, while fruits, veggies, and grains tend to have far lower amount of calories. Seniors on a plant-based diet can stay full without eating too many calories each day.
6. Prevent Diabetes
Seniors tend to have a higher risk for diabetes since the body has more difficulty processing insulin with age. Plant-based diets greatly reduce diabetes risk because they increase the body’s sensitivity to insulin. The higher amount of fiber in plant-based diets slows food absorption, so seniors are less likely to have damaging blood sugar spikes following a meal.
Older adults who need help preparing nutritious foods or making other healthy lifestyle choices can benefit from professional in-home care. When it comes to high-quality at-home care, La Mesa families trust Coast Care Partners. We are a renowned caregiver agency with several years of experience in the senior home care industry. Whether your aging loved one requires minor help with daily tasks or extensive 24-hour care, we are here to help. Call us at 619-354-2544 to learn about our in-home care options.
