Blueberries are known for being a healthy snack for seniors, but did you know they do so much more for senior health?
This superfood is one of the richest sources of antioxidants. A study published in the National Library of Medicine noted the antioxidant deficiencies found in aging populations. The results concluded with a call to action for more antioxidant-based diets for seniors.
Senior living communities like Taylor Place understand this need and design antioxidant-rich meal plans, including dark leafy salads, whole grains, berries, and more superfoods. Residents may also get their daily intake through the best antioxidant drink for seniors.
Discover more tips for boosting senior health through antioxidant-rich products.
One of the most written-about benefits of antioxidants is their ability to reduce levels of oxidative stress, but what is oxidative stress?
This condition occurs with a senior's body has too many free radicals present in their system. Free radicals are unstable oxygen molecules that damage healthy cells. Seniors need these healthy cells to protect and boost their immune health.
Disease prevention is a vital component of every senior health plan. An abundance of free radicals can increase the chances of disease. Several factors can lead to an increase in oxidative stress levels, including smoking, obesity, and alcohol intake.
Two more important factors are diet and overexposure to harmful environmental conditions like air pollution, UV rays, and even pesticides.
Seniors, their family members, and caretakers should look out for the following symptoms of oxidative stress:
Another noted symptom is memory loss or brain fog. These symptoms may be confused with those associated with cognitive conditions like dementia and Alzheimers. If a resident doesn't have a diagnosed memory condition, a consistent antioxidant-rich diet may help along with other regimens like daily exercise, brain stimulation, and communication with family to improve mood health.
All residents at Taylor Place enjoy a daily meal plan where antioxidant-rich meals are served for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Healthy snacks are also available. Residents may also enjoy light cooking in their kitchenettes.
One benefit of antioxidants that should never be overlooked is senior eye health.
Seniors are especially at risk for age-related eye conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration. The two antioxidants, vitamin E and Beta-Carotene are best known for protecting seniors' eyes. Residents can get their daily intake of these antioxidants through healthy meals and vitamin supplements for seniors.
The best antioxidant drink in this case is anything with a carrot juice base. Carrot juice is a rich source of beta-carotene. It's even better when blended with almonds, mango, and leafy greens.
Gut health has an enormous impact on seniors' ability to fight off certain conditions, especially digestive health disorders. This commitment starts with including antioxidant foods with anti-inflammatory properties.
Talk to your physician about antioxidant foods that contain the following healthy properties:
Crisp green apples contain the above antioxidant properties. Asparagus is rich in these antioxidants for the gut and may be prepared in grilled dishes and salads. Celery is also a rich source of gut-healthy vitamins and may be enjoyed hot or cold as a nutritional side dish or green superfood drink.
Discuss the antioxidant properties of curcumin found in the herb, turmeric. This can be ingested via teas and supplement capsules. It's often paired with citric fruits like orange and lemon and may be enjoyed in a nutritional drink or pressed juices with ginger.
Did you know that inflammation is a natural bodily reaction to infection protection?
That uncomfortable feeling is your white blood cells fighting back against external sources like bacteria. However, inflammation has its own side effects that can disrupt immune health. Your body can still do its thing to protect against illness while not increasing health risks in other areas, like gut health issues or joint pain.
Eating antioxidant foods rich in anti-inflammatory properties can aid the body in its fight against illness. Anti-inflammatory foods help mitigate (and soothe) the negative side effects of inflammation while your body fights off illness.
A senior's diet should be rich in the following foods:
Enjoying a chilled senior nutritional drink with soothing natural antioxidants sources is an excellent way to control the uncomfortable effects of inflammation. The chefs at Taylor Place may also prepare soothing antioxidant smoothies for breakfast, lunch, or snacks.
Studies show a strong link between mood health and immune system strength. Seniors are encouraged to receive a daily regimen of both diet and exercise to manage anxiety and depression. This is another reason to consider the advantages of a senior living community that promotes daily exercise, social calendars, and chef-prepared senior diets.
Antioxidants play a powerful role in this relationship.
Foods discussed throughout this article reduce oxidative stress levels that increase mood-related conditions like depression and anxiety. Oxidative stress disrupts healthy oxygen flow to the brain which is needed to balance mood. This relationship also applies to cognitive function and memory retention.
Seniors may also take a daily antioxidant-rich supplement with a mood-boosting breakfast for additional immune system support.
If you're worried about you or your senior loved one getting enough antioxidants, it's time to consider the benefits of a senior living community dedicated to senior health. Keep these healthy living tips handy as you review your options with a senior living professional.
At Taylor Place, seniors may enjoy the best antioxidant drink for immune system support and a daily senior diet to match. Our staff is licensed and trained in everything from senior nutrition to social engagement.
Book a tour of our community to see our results in person.