Replace Salt in Senior Meals with These 6 Substitutes

Posted on March 31, 2015 by Flora Umukoro

Large doses of salt are everywhere from canned soup to salad dressing. However, for many older adults, sodium consumption is a main contributor to high blood pressure, which in turn can lead to stroke or heart attack. Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of stroke care in Tracy, offers these 6 alternatives to keep in the cabinet instead of table salt.

1. Kelp granules
   In addition to adding flavor to dishes, this sea vegetable provides seniors with a number of vitamins and minerals including iodine, calcium, magnesium and vitamin-B, which help to stimulate the thyroid gland and control metabolism.
2. Garlic powder
   This spice enhances the flavor of food, but is also known for its medicinal values such as reducing inflammation, preventing heart blockages, lowering cholesterol and strengthening the immune system.
3. Organic sea salt
   Unlike table salt, sea salt helps regulate body fluids, aids in digestion, regulates sleep and promotes sinus health.
4. Nutritional yeast
   This inactive yeast is popular among vegetarians and vegans because of its cheese-like flavor. It’s also gluten and sugar-free, and is a great source of protein and B-complex vitamins.
5. Organic dried seaweed
   Similar to kelp granules, this salt substitute is very healthy for the body as it contains amino acids and has been linked to weight management and increased energy levels.
6. Oregano
   This is a great alternative to use in soups and salads, and on meats and chicken. It contains large amounts of fiber, Vitamin E, iron, Omega-3s, manganese and antioxidants, and it has anti-bacterial properties.

You can help your senior loved one adjust to a low sodium diet by gradually lowering the amount of salt in dishes instead of eliminating it all at once. If you need help with grocery shopping, prepping, and cooking healthy meals for your loved one, Home Care Assistance in Tracy, CA can help. Our caregivers can assist with a wide variety of activities and promote a healthy, well-balanced lifestyle for your elderly relative. To schedule a free in-home consultation, call (209) 650-8500 and one of our trusted Care Managers will be happy to help.