The current focus on eating a healthy diet often overlooks some of the simplest foods to add to a senior’s meals. Celery is one such vegetable that doesn’t get enough acclaim. The vegetable offers several health benefits for seniors, and knowing about these benefits may encourage seniors to add more celery to their plates.
1. Lowers Cholesterol
Heart health becomes a major concern during the senior years, and keeping cholesterol at the appropriate levels prevents serious conditions such as heart disease and strokes. Celery contains a special compound that lowers lipids, or fats, in the blood. In addition to reducing harmful cholesterol, celery can lower high blood pressure in aging adults.
Eating celery is one of the healthiest habits for seniors to adopt. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional at-home care. Richmond, VA, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
2. Decreases Inflammation
Inflammation plays a role in many chronic health conditions that affect a senior’s quality of life, such as arthritis, heart disease, and digestive disorders. Celery provides a natural way to ease many of these conditions because it contains antioxidants and polysaccharides with anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds reduce oxidative stress that occurs with normal aging. This means eating celery may have a positive impact on your loved one’s entire body.
3. Aids Digestion & Reduces Infections
During the senior years, digestion tends to slow. Raw celery contains fiber that adds bulk to the stool, while its high water content softens stools and eliminates constipation. Celery seeds contain a special compound called NBP, which removes toxins from the body by increasing urine output that flushes the urinary system. This flushing action can reduce the amount of bacteria in your loved one’s urinary system and prevent uncomfortable bladder infections.
From constipation to infections, there are several health issues older adults are susceptible to. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality senior home care. Trust Home Care Assistance to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.
4. Prevents Cancer
Celery falls into a special group of vegetables that contain special compounds called polyacetylenes. These chemoprotective compounds have been shown to reduce toxins in a person’s system that contribute to the development of cancer. Along with other vegetables such as carrots and parsnips, celery has been shown to be effective at preventing breast and intestinal cancer along with leukemia.
5. Maintains Nutrition during Weight Loss
This tasty low-calorie treat has long been a favorite of dieters who enjoy a bit of crunch. However, there are other reasons it’s important for weight-conscious seniors to eat celery. Celery contains vitamin C, the essential B vitamins, potassium, and electrolytes that regulate metabolism while helping seniors stay fuller for longer. Celery can be eaten raw, steamed, or boiled, providing multiple enticing reasons for seniors to try a taste of this wonder food.
Planning and preparing nutritious meals are among some of the everyday tasks older adults may need help with. Some seniors need occasional assistance at home, and oftentimes the family members who take care of them need time away to run errands, take a nap, go to work, or take a vacation. Richmond respite care experts from Home Care Assistance are available on an as-needed basis, giving your family peace of mind that your loved one will remain safe and comfortable while you relax or focus on other important responsibilities. Trust your loved one’s care to the professionals at Home Care Assistance. Reach out to one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (804) 207-4746.