Your senior’s doctor may have recommended increasing the number of healthy fats in her diet, especially if she has COPD. So what falls under the category of healthy fats?
Fish
Fish is high in protein, but it’s also high in healthy fats. Omega-3 fatty acids are a huge part of keeping your senior’s brain healthy, but they’re also great for people with COPD. Some of the fish you might want to choose could include tuna, salmon, and even sardines. Any fish that are fattier can help.
Avocados
Avocados are high in fiber and they’re high in healthy fats. They can help to manage inflammation, which can be a big problem for people who have COPD. Avocados are also a rich source of B vitamins, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Eating them can help your senior to feel fuller longer, without adding a lot of food to her plate.
Olive Oil
Olive oil has been a recommended oil for a long time because of the monounsaturated fats it contains. Monounsaturated fats can help to reduce bad cholesterol while also giving the body nutrients that it needs in order to keep itself healthy. One of the components of olive oil that helps to make it such a great choice is vitamin E.
Nuts, Seeds, and Nut Butters
Nuts, seeds, and nut butters are high in beneficial fats and a host of other nutrients that your senior needs, like amino acids and vitamins. They can also be really easy for her to eat as a snack in between main meals. Watch for added ingredients, though, like sugar, that isn’t necessary and only add empty calories. Also, if your senior is allergic to tree nuts, peanuts, or other types of nuts or seeds, watch for these ingredients in other foods.
Eggs
Eggs had a bad reputation for a long time, but they’ve redeemed themselves. Eggs are high in protein, they can benefit your senior’s good cholesterol, and they’re really easy to eat. They also contain other beneficial nutrients, like antioxidants, selenium, and vitamin B12. Eating eggs for breakfast can help your senior to feel full longer, which can help if she finds that breakfast cereals “wear off” too quickly.
Eating healthy fats can help your elderly family member to maintain her weight a little more easily. If cooking with these healthy fats is difficult for her to do then having help from elderly care providers to manage meals for her can be a great idea. They can ensure that she’s eating healthy meals full of nutritious calories that her body can put to good use.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Home Care in Beverly Hills, CA, please call Mom's Home Care and talk to our friendly, knowledgeable staff. Our number is 323-244-4789
