Following a stroke, seniors must be very careful about what they eat. Filling up on unhealthy foods increases the risk of having a second stroke and slows recovery. The act of eating can be challenging as well, which is why stroke survivors should stick to nutrient-dense foods that are easy to chew and digest. Here’s a quick look at five foods all stroke survivors should try to consume on a regular basis.
1. Lean Meats
Following any type of injury or medical emergency, seniors need to eat plenty of protein. However, some meats contain quite a bit of saturated fat, which can strain the cardiovascular system. Stroke survivors should stick to lean meats filled with healthy fats and other nutrients. Some of the best meats for stroke survivors include salmon, chicken, turkey, and shellfish. As a general rule, these meats need to be grilled or baked instead of fried or smoked.
Unflavored Yogurt
Having a few servings of yogurt every week provides plenty of calcium and protein. Some yogurt products also contain live cultures—bacteria that’s good for gut health. A 2019 study carried out at the West Virginia University School of Medicine revealed that a stroke can imbalance gut bacteria, slowing the recovery process. Eating live cultures is one of the best ways to balance gut flora and boost intestinal health.
3. Quinoa
Many older adults lose quite a bit of weight following a stroke, and chronic undernourishment is hard on the body. To combat malnourishment, some stroke survivors must eat high-carb foods, such as quinoa. This whole grain is incredibly nutritious, and most people find it easy to digest. Quinoa is also versatile, and it can be eaten with a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and proteins, depending on your loved one’s personal preferences.
Recovering from a stroke, managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, and a variety of other health-related situations can make it difficult for a senior to continue living at home without someone there to help. Montgomery live-in care professionals are trained to help seniors who need 24/7 assistance. With the help of a live-in caregiver, your elderly loved one can maintain a higher quality of life while aging in place.
4. Bright Berries
Processed sweeteners can strain the cardiovascular system, and stroke survivors should try to limit their intake of white sugar. Older adults who enjoy sweet treats might want to snack on bright berries instead of candy bars and sodas. Blueberries and raspberries are packed with antioxidants, and they can easily be eaten without any utensils. If your loved one has a difficult time chewing berries, blend them up with some yogurt to make flavorful smoothies.
If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of elderly home care. Montgomery Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services.
5. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are one of the best sources of lycopene, and studies have shown this antioxidant can protect the brain after a stroke. As an added bonus, tomatoes are also easy to work with, and they can be added to a wide range of dishes and snacks. Stroke survivors who have difficulty chewing whole foods might enjoy tomato soup with some crumbled cheese. Before purchasing tomato soup from the store, make sure the product doesn’t contain any processed sweeteners.
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 homecare 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. Rely on the professionals at Home Care Assistance to provide high-quality compassionate care for your loved one. Give us a call today at (334) 593-3988 to learn about our flexible in-home care plans.