Following a heart-healthy diet can reduce a senior’s risk of a wide array of health complications, including coronary artery disease, heart attacks, arrhythmias, and high blood pressure. Many of the superfoods consumed in these diets can also strengthen the immune system and boost energy levels. Here’s a look at six of the best diets for older adults who want to boost their heart health.
1. Flexitarian Diet
More than 10 years ago, a dietitian named Dawn Jackson Blatner started telling people they could enjoy the many benefits of a vegetarian diet without giving up meat entirely. The flexitarian diet primarily revolves around plant proteins, but a few times a month, it’s permissible to indulge in burgers, steaks, fish, and poultry. A 2014 study published in The Journal of Family Practice found that vegetarians are 40 percent less likely to develop heart disease.
If your loved one needs help maintaining healthy habits that promote better cardiovascular health, consider hiring a caregiver. For many seniors in Fremont, live-in care is an essential component of aging in place safely and comfortably. However, it’s important for them to have caregivers they can trust and rely on. At Assisting Hands Home Care, we extensively screen all of our caregivers and only hire those who have experience in the senior home care industry. Our strict requirements ensure seniors can remain in the comfort of home with a reduced risk of injury or serious illness.
2. Ornish Diet
The primary goal of this diet is to reduce the intake of saturated fat. Over the years, many studies have shown regularly consuming saturated fat is one of the leading risk factors for cardiovascular events like heart attacks. While on the Ornish diet, only 10 percent of a senior’s daily calories should come from fat of any type. Egg yolks, fatty meats, and other products that are high in cholesterol must be avoided entirely.
3. TLC Diet
The American Heart Association claims this diet is one of the best options for people who want to reduce their risk of heart disease. In addition to dietary changes, seniors who start the TLC program also need to exercise regularly and find ways to naturally manage their stress levels. Much like the Ornish diet, the TLC diet is designed to reduce the intake of saturated fat and cholesterol and increase the intake of high-fiber fruits, vegetables, and grains.
4. Mediterranean Diet
To this day, the Mediterranean diet is still considered to be one of the healthiest diets in the world. Many long-term studies have proven the Mediterranean diet can reduce blood pressure levels, regulate insulin levels, and promote brain health. This diet cuts out red meat, white sugar, simple carbohydrates, and all processed foods. Seniors on this diet are encouraged to eat plenty of seafood, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, poultry, and berries.
5. DASH Diet
Health specialists designed this diet to lower hypertension and boost cardiovascular health. Many people benefit from the DASH diet because it’s relatively simple to follow. Your loved one can focus on healthy and whole foods like low-fat dairy, lean sources of protein, and leafy green vegetables. The specialists who back this diet have also suggested limiting salt, red meats, and white sugar.
If your busy schedule can’t accommodate extra attention to your loved one’s diet, consider hiring a professional caregiver. If you’re the primary caregiver for a senior family member and are looking for professional home care, Assisting Hands Home Care Fremont should be your top choice. Our dedicated and compassionate caregivers are committed to helping older adults manage their health and enjoy a higher quality of life in the golden years.
6. MIND Diet
The MIND diet is a variation of the Mediterranean diet, and it was created to enhance brain function as well as heart health. Instead of sticking to a rigid diet, seniors have the option of occasionally indulging in their favorite cheat meals. This diet also includes the option of having red wine three or four times a week. Red wine contains a flavonoid known as resveratrol, and studies have shown this substance boosts good cholesterol (HDL) levels while reducing bad cholesterol (LDL) levels.
Professional caregivers can help seniors maintain their heart health and prevent a number of health conditions. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of at-home care. Assisting Hands Home Care provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives. Call us today to learn about our comprehensive in-home care plans.
