6 Healthy Gluten-Free Foods for Aging Adults

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Even seniors who don’t have celiac disease might benefit from removing gluten from their diets. Some short-term studies have shown gluten-free diets can regulate cholesterol levels, boost digestive health, and increase energy levels. Seniors who want to make the transition to a gluten-free diet should consider these six nutritious and delicious foods. 

1. Oats

Oats are full of antioxidants that can boost your loved one’s cardiovascular health and reduce his or her risk of heart disease. These gluten-free grains also contain a powerful molecule known as beta-glucan, which can lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels. 

Switching to healthy gluten-free foods is one of the many ways seniors can boost their health and enjoy a high quality of life. If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a trusted provider of Calgary elder care. Services our caregivers provide include transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping.

2. Quinoa

Many people who try to cut gluten from their diets start eating quite a bit of rice because it is a high-calorie grain. Even though white rice is gluten-free, eating too much of it could increase your loved one’s risk of type 2 diabetes and obesity. Quinoa is a protein-rich grain that can be used to replace white rice in most dishes. It also contains almost twice as much fiber as rice, which can enhance your loved one’s digestive health.

3. Sweet Potatoes

Often categorized as a superfood, sweet potatoes are one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available. Sweet potatoes contain an incredible amount of fiber, protein, vitamins A and C, and copper. Because of their relatively neutral taste, sweet potatoes are a great option for seniors who have difficulty digesting rich foods. When combined with healthy fats such as butter, sweet potatoes can be the main course of a nutritious and filling meal. 

Seniors who need help preparing nutritious meals or making healthy lifestyle choices can benefit from professional in-home care. 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 Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of live-in and respite care. Calgary seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable respite caregivers.

4. Nuts and Seeds

In addition to being a good source of protein, nuts and seeds are also naturally gluten-free. Before purchasing any nuts or seeds, you should first check the labels to see if there are any additives. Some of these products are mixed with ingredients that contain gluten. Seniors who are trying to lose weight might want to consider switching from traditional wheat flour to almond meal or ground flaxseed because these have fewer calories and more nutrients. 

5. Unsweetened Dairy Products

One of the biggest issues with dairy is that many manufacturers fill these products with dyes, sweeteners, and preservatives. While shopping for dairy for your loved one, read all of the ingredients to make sure there are no additives. Having a few servings of whole milk, plain yogurt, or hard cheese every day provides seniors with enough calcium and vitamin D to keep their bones strong.

6. Corn

Grilled corn on the cob is filled with vitamins A, B, D, and E and several antioxidants that can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related disorders. Seniors who are on the hunt for nutrient-dense foods should avoid corn products that have been canned, frozen, or pre-cooked. Many of the methods used to preserve corn can strip away its nutrients.

Eating nutritious gluten-free meals is just one of many ways older adults can maintain a high quality of life. Find out how a Calgary, AB, caregiver can help your senior loved one enjoy a higher quality of life by reaching out to Home Care Assistance. All of our professional respite and live-in caregivers are trained in comprehensive Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s, and stroke care, and they can also assist seniors with basic daily tasks like exercise, cooking, bathing, and light housekeeping. To create a comprehensive in-home care plan for your senior loved one, give us a call at 403-301-3777 today.

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