7 Snacks for Seniors that Are Great for Heart Health

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Heart-Healthy Snack Choices for Aging Adults in Tucson, AZ

An important part of maintaining heart health is eating a healthy diet. Seniors who want to prevent major cardiovascular issues typically need to focus on eating the right amount of calories, getting plenty of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, and avoiding excessive amounts of sodium and saturated fats. Here are some good ideas for snacks that are both tasty and heart-healthy.

1. Bell Pepper Strips & Hummus

Seniors who love snacking on crunchy things with dips will appreciate this low-calorie alternative that’s packed with flavor. The peppers contain carotenoids that protect the heart, while the hummus has plenty of fiber. If you can find hummus made with sesame oil, it’s a great source of magnesium, a micronutrient needed to maintain proper heart rhythm. 

Managing all the aspects of a senior’s health, including diet, can be challenging for a family caregiver. If you’re the primary family caregiver for an elderly loved one and need additional assistance providing high-quality elder care, Home Care Assistance can help. We are a leading home care agency committed to changing the way seniors age.

2. Sardines

Fatty fish are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. The blend of protein and fat in these tiny fish also makes them a very satisfying and filling snack, so seniors are likely to feel sated without having to eat too much food. Use them as a topping on whole wheat crackers to make the snack even more satisfying.

3. Oatmeal

High-fiber foods are useful because they reduce cholesterol and inflammation, and they also help seniors stay full without having to consume a lot of calories. A small cup of oatmeal is also a good snack for seniors because it’s warm and comforting but doesn’t require much effort to make.

Preparing meals and monitoring their loved ones’ diets are just a couple of the many responsibilities of family caregivers, who also need to make sure to take care of themselves. Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional respite care. Tucson, Arizona, family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties can turn to Home Care Assistance. Using our proprietary Balanced Care Method, our respite caregivers can encourage your loved one to eat well, exercise regularly, get plenty of mental and social stimulation, and focus on other lifestyle factors that promote longevity.

4. Popcorn

Popcorn is high in volume while being low in calories. As long as seniors don’t drench their popcorn in butter, they can have a giant bowl of food to munch on without going over 100 calories, making it a good choice for seniors who need to lose weight to protect their hearts.

5. Berries

These sweet treats are always a welcome snack for seniors. All types of berries are particularly high in antioxidants that can protect the heart from oxidative damage. Another benefit of snacking on berries is that they provide soluble fiber.

6. Almonds

A handful of almonds can be an excellent savory snack. They provide a lot of important fatty acids that keep the circulatory system functioning properly. Thanks to a balanced blend of protein and fat, just a small serving of almonds can keep seniors feeling full and comfortable until their next meal.

7. Dark Chocolate

Look for chocolate that’s at least 70 percent cocoa, which is a heart-healthy source of antioxidant polyphenols. Dark chocolate is also a good snack choice because it satisfies cravings for sweet treats without requiring seniors to eat a lot of calorie-packed, non-nutritional candy. 

Because it’s crucial to keep their cardiovascular systems strong, seniors should eat heart-healthy foods to maintain optimal health. There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional home care service. Tucson families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. Home Care Assistance will work with you to customize a care plan that’s just right for your loved one’s needs. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today at (520) 276-6555 to learn more about our customized care plans.

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