Use National Nutrition Month to Explore Your Mom's Dietary Needs

National Nutrition Month occurs every March. Older adults have specific dietary needs that are often overlooked. Learn more about your mom’s nutritional needs during National Nutrition Month. Their home care providers can assist them with preparing meals around these nutritional concerns.

Protein for Muscles

Protein is important for maintaining muscle mass. Lean proteins that are lower in saturated fat are essential. Your mom can get protein from tofu, fish, cooked beans, and poultry.

Calcium and Vitamin D for Bone Strength

Osteoporosis is more common in women who have gone through menopause. Your mom needs to get enough calcium and vitamin D to help with bone strength and repair.

Most people get vitamin D from the sun, but your mom is likely covering up with sunscreen, which is important. That can decrease how much vitamin D she gets. Cereals, nut milk, and fruit juices that are fortified with calcium and vitamin D are important.

Antioxidants for Cell Health and Immune Function

Antioxidants found in berries, leafy greens, and other fruits and vegetables help protect the cells from damage. They also help with immune function, which is important for fighting off a virus or bacterial infection.

Your mom needs to eat around five cups of produce each day. A good rule of thumb is to have two cups of fruit and three cups of vegetables, and she wants to try to cover all of the colors with the choices she makes.

Fiber for Diabetes and Cancer Prevention Intestinal Health

High-fiber foods are essential. One of the reasons they’re so important is that it helps keep moisture in the intestines as food is processed and waste is created. It can help prevent constipation and also helps lower the risk of colorectal cancer.

Studies also find that high-fiber foods help lower the risk of diabetes and heart disease. High-fiber foods keep your mom feeling fuller longer. If she likes to start her morning with a breakfast smoothie, add a half cup of old-fashioned oats to add fiber.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Heart Health and Healthy Skin

The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, nuts, and seeds can help keep the skin from drying and cracking. As your mom ages, her collagen production decreases. Omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent excessively dry skin. Some studies also find that these oils can help with heart health and lower the risk of developing eczema in aging skin.

Home Care Hawthorne FL – Use National Nutrition Month to Explore Your Mom’s Dietary Needs

B Vitamins For Nerve Function

B vitamins are essential for proper nerve function. As nerves can play a role in balance, cognitive function, stress, anxiety, and many other concerns as you age, it’s important that your mom gets enough B-6 and B-12. Your mom should also ask her doctor if she could be experiencing a deficiency.

Home care is a good way to support your mom’s needs for a nutritionally balanced diet. Caregivers can help her plan her weekly menu, establish a shopping list, go shopping, and cook meals when necessary. Call our home care agency and arrange home care today.

If you are considering Home Care Services in Hawthorne FL, for an aging loved one, please contact the caring staff at Touching Hearts Home Care. Call today: 352-225-3727.