Everyone knows seniors must be conscious of their diets to prevent health problems, but did you also know that one aspect of healthy eating is limiting the consumption of food preservatives? Studies show food preservatives may be dangerous and are an often-understated source of health issues. Here are three common food preservatives seniors should avoid along with information on how these preservatives are capable of causing health problems.
1. Aspartame
Two major studies, the Nurses’ Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study, found that the preservative aspartame increases the risk of certain types of cancer, especially in men. Seniors should avoid diet soda if they want to stay healthy and check product labels on sugar-free goods, which tend to sneak in this dangerous sugar substitute.
Some seniors need help shopping for nutritious foods and preparing healthy meals at home. If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of live-in and respite care. Tucson seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable respite caregivers.
2. High-Fructose Corn Syrup
This sugary syrup is another sweetener that may cause health problems, such as obesity and diabetes. This is because fructose doesn’t stimulate the body to release as much insulin or leptin as glucose does. Without enough insulin or leptin in the blood, the body will cause a person to overeat, since these hormones regulate eating. Look for foods labeled “certified organic” to make sure they’re free of this dangerous preservative.
Removing unhealthy foods from their diets is one of the many ways seniors can maintain their health and enjoy a high quality of life. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elderly home care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
3. Trans Fat
Trans fat is another food preservative often found in margarine that could increase the risk of heart attacks among seniors. WebMD cites a study of female nurses that found women with the highest levels of trans fats in their red blood cells had triple the risk of heart disease compared to women with the lowest levels. Instead of using margarine, seniors should opt for moderate amounts of butter or olive oil, which don’t have trans fats, and they should shy away from fried foods in general.
Hiring a professional caregiver is one of the best ways to help your loved one switch to eating healthy foods and boost his or her overall wellbeing. Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them attain this goal. Families can trust Tucson home care service experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living longer and healthier lives. Home Care Assistance can be your trusted partner in caregiving for your aging loved one. Contact one of our experienced Care Managers today at (520) 276-6555 to learn more about our reliable in-home care services.