We all know herbs and spices add complex and robust flavor to meals, but did you know many have health benefits as well? By incorporating the following spices and herbs into your senior loved one’s daily meals, you can ensure he or she is enjoying flavorful food that promotes health, wellbeing, and quality of life.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is full of disease-fighting antioxidants, and it can reduce inflammation, fight harmful bacteria, alleviate nausea, and help the body’s natural insulin work better, reducing glucose levels. This spice can also lower the risk of heart disease by reducing blood pressure and bad cholesterol levels. Some studies also indicate cinnamon can prevent or slow the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Adding just half a teaspoon to the diet each day can be beneficial.
Garlic
Like cinnamon, garlic decreases inflammation, and it also has the added benefits of boosting the immune system, lowering the risk of cardiovascular conditions, and reducing blood pressure. Studies have also found fresh garlic can provide anticancer benefits if just two cloves are consumed per week.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional homecare services. 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.
Turmeric
Turmeric adds a savory boost to any meal, and it can be easily added to soups, chicken, and rice. The spice also has strong anti-inflammatory benefits, relieving the pain of arthritis and other muscle and joint ailments that are common among aging adults. Turmeric also contains properties that have been shown to manage diabetes, fight cancer, and reduce the risk of heart attacks and Alzheimer’s disease.
Ginger
While some may believe it to be just an old wives’ tale, numerous studies report ginger can relieve digestive issues such as upset stomach, nausea, and diarrhea. Ginger can also be used for reducing pain felt in the muscles and joints.
Mint
Mint is an herb that can soothe indigestion or inflammation of the stomach. It’s also known to alleviate nausea, nasal congestion, fatigue, and headaches. A few studies have found mint to be a positive reinforcer of memory and general cognitive function.
If your loved one needs help planning and preparing nutritious meals, a home caregiver can be a wonderful source of support. Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them obtain this goal. Families can trust Philadelphia home care experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living a longer and healthier life.
Oregano
Recently, many studies have shown following the Mediterranean Diet, comprised mostly of fresh fish, lean meat, fruits and vegetables, and Mediterranean spices like oregano, is one of the healthiest ways to eat. Oregano has antibacterial properties to fight infections, and it’s also rich in antioxidants that aid in staving off various diseases.
Chili Pepper
Chili pepper adds a little heat to dishes, which can also increase seniors’ metabolism and clear congestion. New studies are showing chili pepper is also a natural pain reliever that lowers cholesterol and can boost overall immunity.
Cayenne Pepper
If your loved one can handle the heat, cayenne pepper is a spice that can add a burst of flavor to various dishes, and it has been shown to reduce arthritis pain and lower the risk of heart attacks. Cayenne pepper can also lower blood pressure and bad cholesterol levels while boosting metabolism and helping with healthy weight maintenance.
Preparing nutritious meals is often an arduous task for family members. Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional respite care. Philadelphia, PA, 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. Trust Home Care Assistance to provide high-quality compassionate, professional home care for your loved one. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today at (215) 645-4663.