Foods That Improve Senior Heart Health

Posted on October 28, 2015 by Flora Umukoro

It’s important to adopt a healthy diet as we age to improve longevity and overall health, especially when it comes to our hearts. Senior citizens may have trouble getting the proper nutrition to maintain cardiovascular health or may simply not understand which foods are best, and this may cause some concern for family members. To help seniors and their families make heart-healthy decisions while grocery shopping, Tracy Home Care Assistance has put together the following list.

Avocados

Avocados are high in calories and good fats. Although eating something high in calories and fat may seem counterintuitive, monounsaturated fats like those found in avocados reduce bad (LDL) cholesterol and minimize the risk of heart disease.

Oatmeal

A hearty bowl of oatmeal is a great way to start the day. The soluble fiber has been proven to lower cholesterol. While all whole grains contribute to cardiovascular health, oats provide unique antioxidants, which may prevent or slow atherosclerosis.

Beans

Beans are full of fiber, which lowers cholesterol, and the contain niacin, magnesium, zinc, potassium, and folate, all of which reduce blood pressure and allow blood to flow smoothly through the circulatory system. Beans are also a perfect source of protein without the unhealthy fats found in animal proteins. 

Soy

Soy is another option to increase protein consumption while minimizing unhealthy saturated fats. It can also reduce cholesterol and lower triglycerides. Soymilk can be used in place of dairy milk, and silken tofu can be used in everything from stir-frys to pumpkin pies.

Berries

Berries are high-fiber treat that can increase heart health. A recent study found that berries contain anthocyanin, a dietary flavonoid that may improve cardiac blood flow and lower the risk of heart attack.

Spinach

Spinach provides vitamin C, beta-carotene, folate, potassium, and magnesium, all of which can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. Additionally, if your loved one has already had a heart attack, the nitrite found in spinach can speed recovery and increase survival rates.

Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is surprisingly high in antioxidants, which can help the body fight off environmental damage. Additionally, cocoa has high levels of flavanols that can lower blood pressure and improve blood circulation. This smooth blood flow prevents blood clots from forming, thereby reducing the risk of a heart attack.

A proper diet is paramount as we age, and if your senior loved one could use assistance shopping for heart-healthy foods and preparing nutritious meals, Home Care Assistance can help. We provide comprehensive live-in and part-time care for seniors, as well as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, dementia, and stroke care in Tracy. Call us today at 209.650.8500 for a complimentary in-home consultation.