Each year, many seniors have strokes, and these aging adults have a higher risk of experiencing recurrent strokes. However, there are steps older adults can take to boost their health and have a smooth recovery process, starting with following a healthy diet. Here are some of the healthy foods a senior should eat after having a stroke.
1. Beans
A senior’s primary source of fuel is glucose, and beans can deliver it to the brain. Encourage your aging parent to eat plenty of beans while recovering from a stroke. Eating beans can stabilize blood glucose levels and prevent issues like blood clots and blockages, reducing the risk of cardiovascular problems. Make sure you provide your loved one with a variety of options instead of the same bean dishes each day. For instance, your loved one can eat hummus and still receive a healthy portion of beans.
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2. Avocados
Serving fresh avocados or making dishes like guacamole could strengthen your loved one’s health and reduce the risk of inflammation in the body, especially the brain. Avocados are loaded with fatty acids that boost fine motor skills and mental wellbeing. Keep in mind that sodium can increase the risk of high blood pressure, so when seasoning avocados, avoid using salt and other high-sodium products.
3. Berries
Eating berries can reduce brain damage after a stroke and enhance neurological function. The best berries for a senior to eat after having a stroke are blueberries because they’re packed with the most antioxidants. A stroke can also cause chewing or swallowing issues for an older adult, but berries are soft and can be eaten with yogurt or blended into a smoothie.
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4. Salmon
After a stroke, eating salmon and other fatty fish can increase brain cell regeneration and activate neuroplasticity in an older adult, enhancing cognitive abilities. Eating fatty fish can also regulate cholesterol levels and keep the heart in good shape.
5. Tomatoes
Consuming lycopene can increase circulation, which is vital after a stroke. Tomatoes are full of lycopene and make a healthy option. Your loved one can eat fresh tomatoes alone or add them to side dishes and meals. For instance, your loved one can eat tomatoes in a kale salad or make a gluten-free tomato soup recipe. Some seniors take lycopene supplements to prevent recurrent strokes. However, it can be better for the recovery process when the antioxidant is received directly from a food source.
6. Dried Apricots
Low levels of potassium can increase the risk of hypertension and cause a second stroke. To remain healthy after a stroke, your loved one should eat plenty of potassium. Dried apricots contain a lot of this nutrient. Eating at least one cup of this fruit can fulfill a significant portion of the daily potassium intake stroke survivors need to have a healthy recovery process.
Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted Reston elderly home care provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help. To learn more about our reliable, compassionate in-home care services, contact us today.
