Powerhouse foods every older adult needs (Mark Lovell)

The more we age, the more our bodies change and require us to adjust our diets accordingly. At Milwaukee Home Care Assistance, we understand the importance of healthy eating. Although physical activity is necessary, what we eat is more important as it determines our nutrition and the quality of our eyesight, skin, bones, and overall health that will allow us to live longer.

To maintain a healthy diet as we age, it's crucial to consume powerhouse foods that are packed with disease-fighting vitamins and nutrients. Blueberries are crucial for fighting cancer, brain damage caused from strokes, urinary tract infections, and macular degeneration. Blueberries can easily be incorporated in one's diet, whether eaten raw as a snack, topped on oatmeal and added into smoothies. Strawberries are another powerhouse food that is similar to blueberries, as a cup of the fruit contains a full day's supply of vitamin C - even more than oranges. Strawberries lower the risk of heart disease and have plenty of antioxidants that also boost immunity, promote healthy eyes, fight cancer, and reduce inflammation. Strawberries even reduce wrinkles.

Kale, broccoli, brussel sprouts, and cauliflower are all considered cruciferous vegetables that reduce the risk of cancer and stress. They contain high amounts of vitamin A, C, magnesium, and folic acid. They can be added to green smoothies for a boost in immunity, used for delicious salads, and even topped on hamburgers for healthy digestion.

Avocados are a powerhouse food that works to add healthy fats to the diet. Although they are high in calories, approximately 240 calories, they provide unsaturated fat required in 30 percent of the diet. They reduce the risk of cancer, promote eye health, prevent strokes, contain vitamin E, and allow other nutrients in the diet to be absorbed easier. Try adding them to salads, sandwiches, and on veggie patties. For a mid-day snack, opt for half of an avocado with a bit of salt or healthy dressing.

Pumpkin is becoming an increasingly popular powerhouse food that many people are enjoying adding to their diet. Pumpkin contains a high amount of vitamin A, which is known to heal the body quicker. Pumpkin also contains plenty of fiber, and even promotes healthy eye sight. Forget just adding pumpkin to your pies, this delicious food can be added to smoothies, oatmeal, or even breads.

Another healthy powerhouse food to incorporate into the diet is wild salmon. This delicious fish is crucial at preventing heart disease and provides more energy due to the nutrients that it contains like vitamin B6 and riboflavin.

For further questions concerning healthy eating in old age, contact Milwaukee Home Care Assistance In-home Care. Our care staff is on call 24/7 to assist you with all your needs.

Eating a healthy diet is critical for maintaining a happy, healthy life in old age. At Milwaukee Home Care Assistance we assist our clients with meal preparation and healthy living. http://www.milwaukeehomecareassistance.com/