Olives are more than just a tasty topping for a salad or pizza. It may even surprise you to learn this small fruit has more than a few health benefits for people over 65. Here are some of the advantages your elderly loved one can gain from including more olives in his or her diet.
1. Provide Antioxidants & Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Olives contain many types of antioxidants, including phenols and polyphenols. Some of these antioxidants, such as oleuropein, are only found in olives and have been found to boost senior health in numerous ways. Along with antioxidants, olives also contain healthy monounsaturated fats, both of which have anti-inflammatory properties and reduce blood pressure and cholesterol.
Managing all the aspects of a senior’s health, including diet, can be challenging. If you’re the primary family caregiver for an elderly loved one and need additional assistance providing high-quality senior care, Home Care Assistance can help. We are a leading home care agency committed to changing the way seniors age.
2. Promote Skin Health & Slow Aging
The many antioxidants and fatty acids found in olives can protect your loved one’s skin from the radiation found in UV light. The compound oleuropein has been found to have a direct impact on protecting skin.
Olives may also be a great anti-aging health food. Lab studies published in the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Medicine found the oleuropein and tyrosol in olive oil increased the lifespan of roundworms by 15 percent.
3. Prevent Cancer
The anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants in olives can also reduce the risk of cancer. Discoveries have shown these compounds activate tumor suppressor and apoptotic genes, which initiates programmed cell death. Additional studies published by the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Medicine have predicted heart disease and cancer are lower in people living in the Mediterranean basin because of their diets, which include plenty of olives.
Aging adults who need assistance with meal planning, cooking, and other daily tasks can benefit from professional in-home care. Whether your elderly loved one needs part-time assistance with basic household chores or you need a break from your caregiving duties, the Tucson respite care experts at Home Care Assistance are here to help. All of our respite care services are backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts.
4. Support Bone Health & Fight Osteoporosis
Olives also prevent the loss of bone mass in age-related osteoporosis. Some compounds in extra virgin olive oil are known to stimulate the bone-forming osteoblastic cells, while some studies on olive oil have also noticed increases of bone matrix proteins and other bone-protective effects.
Eating nutritious foods can help aging adults stave off a number of health issues. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional in-home care. Tucson, AZ, 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. To learn more about our premier in-home care plans, call us at (520) 276-6555 today.