The Mediterranean diet is becoming more and more popular with people who are looking to lose weight and get healthy. This is especially true with older adults because this way of eating has numerous other health benefits. Based on the cuisine of people who live in Southern Europe, along the Mediterranean Sea, the diet is perfect for increasing longevity and fighting disease. Here are some specific reasons you may want to encourage your older loved one to begin eating this way.
1. Promote Longevity
Most people want to live as long as they can, and the Mediterranean diet has been accredited with making this happen for many. Studies have shown people who live in the Mediterranean region and eat this diet, which includes plenty of fish, vegetables, olive oil, nuts, legumes, and whole grains, live longer.
A professional caregiver can ensure your loved one eats healthy meals and enjoys a higher quality of life. In Oshkosh, elderly care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Senior Stride Home Care, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.
2. Prevent and Manage Diabetes
If your loved one is diabetic or on the path to developing diabetes, a switch to the Mediterranean diet could help him or her manage the condition. Following the Mediterranean diet can help with weight loss and control, which is important for those with diabetes. However, the diet has also been shown to keep blood sugar levels under control and potentially even reverse diabetes.
Encourage your loved one to switch to healthy foods, and help him or her prepare nutritious meals. If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of live-in and respite care. Oshkosh seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable respite caregivers.
3. Protect the Brain
Older adults are also at a greater risk for diseases that affect the brain, such as dementia, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s. Studies have shown the Mediterranean diet may keep these conditions at bay. Experts believe this has to do with the fact that the diet prevents inflammation from building up in various parts of the body, including the brain. The diet is also rich with healthy fats from nuts and olive oil that are good for the brain, heart, and cardiovascular system, and it may even boost long-term memory.
4. Boost Emotional Health
The Mediterranean diet may also prevent emotional disorders like anxiety and depression. It can boost mood, which is essential for seniors who feel isolated or are often stressed and worried. The diet cuts out processed and fast foods that are typical in many Western diets, and those foods are often linked with depression.
5. Prevent and Fight Cancer
The older your loved one becomes, the more at risk he or she is for developing cancer. Some experts believe the Mediterranean diet can reduce the risk of cancer. This diet provides plenty of polyphenols, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids that can stave off cancer. Because the diet is largely plant-based, this way of eating may also help seniors fight cancer.
Consider hiring a dedicated caregiver if your loved one needs assistance preparing nutritious meals. In Oshkosh, home care providers can benefit aging adults in a variety of ways. From cooking nutritious meals to offering timely medication reminders, the dedicated caregivers at Senior Stride Home Care are available to help your elderly loved one 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To create a customized in-home care plan for your loved one, give us a call at 920-717-1767 today.