Learning to Add Protein in a Seniors Diet
Did you know that by the time most people reach the age of 70, they have lost as much as 30% of their strength and 40% of their muscular mass? The importance of a healthy, well-balanced diet in warding off illness, especially as we get older, should come as no surprise. However, it is less well known that eating the right foods can aid in the preservation of muscle mass and strength, thereby paving the way for a more confident and self-sufficient old age. In fact, increasing one’s protein intake is associated with a decreased chance of developing osteoporosis, osteopenia, muscle loss, weakness, and cognitive impairment in elderly life. If your senior needs help figuring out what to eat, it’s time to find companion care at home to help them age in place. Here are some ways to sneak in extra protein.
Offer Various Foods In the Morning
Display an appetizing range of meal options. Everyone, regardless of age, has the basic need to eat and the desire to eat tasty food. Remember this while you assist a loved one with food planning, buying, and preparation. Chicken, beef, fish, pork, nuts, and dairy are just some of the protein-rich foods that may be introduced into meals throughout the week to add variety and help prevent muscle loss. Protein-rich beverages, such as chocolate milk with roughly 8 grams of protein, orange juice with 2 grams of protein, and smoothies with 20+ grams of protein when mixed with whole milk, fresh fruits, and yogurt, are another choice.
Find the Best Easy to Digest Proteins for Seniors
If your senior doesn’t know what foods they should eat, they need to find the right companion care at home to help them with meal prep. Choose proteins that are easy to digest. This is especially crucial for elderly people who are recuperating from an illness or surgery or who have severe conditions such as dementia or Parkinson’s disease when related symptoms make eating difficult. Choose lean meats such as chicken and turkey, eggs, yogurt, cottage cheese, and soybeans to increase comfort by relieving digestive strain. When cooking these foods, try to avoid adding spices or acidic tastes, which can make digestion more difficult with age, resulting in a cycle of avoidance and weight loss.
Find Regular Foods and Add Protein
More nutrient-dense food is required for elderly folks since they feel full after eating lesser amounts. For an immediate protein boost, add bite-size chunks of meat to pasta or rice dishes and a handful of nuts or seeds to salads. Nonfat dried milk, which offers 3 grams of protein and can be sprinkled into soups and sauces, is another fantastic ingredient. Four tablespoons of dry milk mixed into one cup of full milk can also offer an unnoticeable protein boost.
Use Beverages to Add In Protein
Provide more drinks as needed. Those who find themselves unable to keep food down can purchase commercially produced drinks. These beverages are suitable for those with lactose sensitivity because they do not include dairy.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Companion Care at Home in Holmdel Township, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Lares Home Care 888-492-3538 or 732-566-1112.
