5 Reasons Aging Adults Should Follow the Mediterranean Diet

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More and more medical professionals are promoting the Mediterranean diet as a healthy choice for seniors. The diet is easy for aging adults to follow, and it contains foods that promote healthy living. Here are some of the amazing benefits seniors can receive when they adopt the Mediterranean diet. 

 

1. Enhance Memory

The Mediterranean diet is practically free from artificial ingredients and GMOs, which can help older adults boost their memory. Keep in mind the diet does allow for some desserts, specifically those made with honey and other natural sweeteners. Seniors can also eat fruits when they crave a sweet treat. 

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 address if their families opt for professional senior home care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.

 

2. Lower the Risk of Diabetes

Family caregivers need to do everything possible to help their loved ones reduce the risk of obesity and other issues that can cause diabetes. The Mediterranean diet has an anti-inflammatory pattern that protects seniors from health conditions such as diabetes. The diet helps seniors prevent excess insulin, reducing the odds of weight gain and high blood sugar levels. Following a low-sugar diet full of healthy fats and good sources of protein can help seniors avoid diabetes, heart disease, and immune system disorders. 

 

3. Reduce Stress Levels

Chronic stress can have a negative impact on mental, physical, and emotional health. However, following the Mediterranean diet can help seniors manage their stress levels and relax. The diet can also help older adults maintain good sleeping patterns, which allows the body to clear out harmful toxins that can lead to more stress. 

Lowering stress can boost quality of life in the golden years. If you have a senior loved one who needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care Reston families can trust. Our caregivers help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and we offer mentally stimulating activities that can boost cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. 

 

4. Boost Heart Health

The Mediterranean diet provides plenty of omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats, which have a positive impact on memory and heart health. For example, olive oil is one of the main oils used in this diet, and it can decrease the risk of a stroke, heart attack, or cardiac arrest. The foods in the diet, such as salmon, help older adults prevent high blood pressure. Decreasing blood pressure by significant amounts can keep the arteries dilated and clear. The Mediterranean diet is also known to combat oxidation and its disease-promoting effects. 

 

5. Lower the Risk of Cancer

Eating healthy fats and plant-based foods can enhance your loved one’s overall health and help him or her fight against various types of cancer. The Mediterranean diet can also prevent tumor growth and lower the risk of inflammation. Following the diet can stop cell mutation and protect your loved one’s DNA from damage. Make sure you also follow a nutritious diet while providing the high-quality care your loved one needs and deserves. Family caregivers need to care for their own wellbeing. If you’re caring for an aging loved one and are feeling overwhelmed, consider hiring a professional caregiver to provide respite care. Reston families who want to prevent burnout can turn to Assisting Hands Home Care. One of our professional caregivers can assist your loved one at home while you take a nap, go to work, run errands, or go on vacation. Whether your parent needs minor help with daily tasks or extensive 24-hour care, give us a call today.