The MIND diet has gained attention worldwide due to its health benefits. The diet is a combination of the Mediterranean and DASH diets, and it allows older adults to get the best out of both types of meal plans. Take a look at some of the reasons your aging loved one should try the MIND diet.
1. Reduce the Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease
It has long been known that diet plays a crucial role in lowering the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Working off current information, Martha Clare Morris from Rush University Medical Center created the diet and performed a study funded by the National Institute on Aging. During the study, it was found that the MIND diet was effective at alleviating Alzheimer’s symptoms.
Older adults who need help preparing nutritious meals should consider professional in-home care. In Tucson, home care providers can benefit aging adults in a variety of ways. From cooking nutritious meals to offering timely medication reminders, the dedicated caregivers at Home Care Assistance are available to help your elderly loved one 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
2. Decrease Joint Pain and Stiffness
A senior’s body requires healthy fat to make the lubrication that keeps joints limber. The MIND diet includes rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids such as nuts. Eliminating processed foods from the diet also reduces inflammation that irritates delicate joints.
3. Build a Stronger Immune System
Older adults are fairly susceptible to colds and other illnesses because of their lowered immune systems. For this reason, they should aim to eat several servings of fruit each day, and the MIND diet includes berries and other healthy foods. Berries are rich sources of vitamin C and other antioxidants that strengthen immune system functioning.
4. Promote Better Digestion
Digestive disorders are common in the senior years. A sluggish digestive system leads to abdominal pain and discomfort, and some older adults may experience malnutrition if their bodies do not digest food properly. When seniors follow the MIND diet, they eat foods such as beans and vegetables that contain fiber. It’s easy for a senior’s body to break down whole foods that have not been processed or filled with additives.
Preparing nutritious meals for older adults can be a difficult task, especially if you have other important tasks to tend to. 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.
5. Boost Cardiovascular Functioning
The MIND diet contains all of the essential components of a heart-healthy meal plan. By eating only healthy fats and eliminating large amounts of butter and cheese, seniors can reduce their cholesterol levels. The diet also includes a small glass of wine each day, which can boost heart health.
6. Reduce Feelings of Deprivation
Many diets fail because people feel deprived and end up overeating sugary or high-fat snacks. Although the MIND diet does have a list of foods to avoid, those who follow the plan can eat less than one serving of these foods once a week. The flexibility of being able to enjoy a slice of cake or eat out for lunch allows seniors to easily incorporate the MIND diet into their lifestyles.
Switching to the MIND diet is one of the healthiest lifestyle choices older adults should consider. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of elderly care. Tucson Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives. To learn about our high-quality in-home care options, give us a call at (520) 276-6555 today.