People in Greece, Italy, Spain, and Turkey are known for their longer and healthier lives. When nutritionists evaluated the secrets behind their longevity, they learned eating and social habits were the likely causes. Before long, the Mediterranean diet became popular.
Seniors can boost their health and wellbeing by switching to the Mediterranean diet, which involves eating:
- Beans and whole grains
- Fruits, vegetables, and salads
- Olive oil
- Poultry and seafood
Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them obtain this goal. Families can trust elderly home care experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living a longer and healthier life.
Here are several reasons seniors should adopt the Mediterranean diet.
1. Manage Diabetes
The Mediterranean diet doesn’t contain artificial sweetening ingredients, GMOs, high fructose corn syrup, or processed sugar. Its flavor comes from fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
2. Promote Weight Loss
The Mediterranean diet is low in carbohydrates and high in healthy protein and omega-3 fatty acids. By eating healthier, seniors get all the nutrients they need. This way, their snack cravings are reduced and losing weight becomes easier. This healthy diet also boosts mood and increases energy levels, which enables older adults to be more physically active.
3. Enhance Heart Health
The omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats in the Mediterranean diet reduce the risk of developing heart disease. Olive oil contains a compound known as alpha-linolenic acid, which reduces the risk of heart attacks by 30 to 40 percent. Warwick Medical School researchers discovered olive oil also reduces blood pressure due to its nitric oxide content.
4. Fight Cancer
An article published in the European Journal of Cancer Prevention explained how the Mediterranean diet interferes with the development of malignant cells. The secret lies in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, fiber, antioxidants, and polyphenols, which are contained in many plant-based foods and oils.
5. Protect Cognitive Health
The minerals, vitamins, and other compounds in the Mediterranean diet ensure brain cells receive the oxygen and other nutrients needed to keep neurons healthy. Seniors are then less likely to develop chemical imbalances that lead to cognitive health conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of age-related dementia.
Even when families have the best intentions, caring for a senior loved one with dementia can be challenging. Fortunately, Home Care Assistance is here to help. We are a leading provider of dementia care. Richmond families can take advantage of our flexible and customizable care plans, and our caregivers always stay up to date on the latest developments in senior care.
6. Reduce Stress
By eating healthier, the body has more energy and is able to create essential chemical compounds. Increased energy allows older adults to be physically active, which helps the body eliminate stress. The proper balance of neurotransmitters keeps anxiety and depression at bay.
7. Encourage Longevity
Adhering to the Mediterranean diet might also help seniors live well into their 90s and past the age of 100.
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 Richmond senior care 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. Home Care Assistance is here to help. To create a comprehensive in-home care plan for your loved one, call us at (804) 207-4746 today.