Mushrooms are versatile, which makes them easy to add to a variety of healthy dishes, and these members of the fungi kingdom contain a few powerful benefits for people over 65. The Waterloo respite home care experts at Home Care Assistance have put together a list of reasons why seniors should include more mushrooms in their diets.
Increase Folic Acid Intake
Folic acid is essential for maintaining good health in the senior years because it helps prevent anemic diseases, which are all too common in the elderly. According to the Food and Nutrition Board at the Institute of Medicine, the folic acid content of mushrooms meets the Dietary Reference Intake recommended for seniors. Furthermore, a study published in the Journal of Nutrition examined the bioavailability of food folates and found the folic acid bioavailability in mushrooms is comparable to green vegetables like peas and spinach.
Combat Cancer
Seniors should have diets high in selenium and vitamin D to lower their risks for developing cancer. The selenium found in mushrooms helps prevent tumor growth and the vitamin D can inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
Boost Cardiovascular Health
According to Dr. Marvin Moser, Clinical Professor of Medicine at Yale University, 2 out of 3 people over age 75 have high blood pressure. To achieve lower blood pressure, seniors should follow diets higher in potassium with little salt intake. Consuming mushrooms can help alleviate hypertension because they are high in potassium and low in sodium.
Promote Digestive Health
As seniors age, their bodies tend to develop more problems with constipation. A high-fiber diet can help prevent constipation because fiber works to promote regular bowel movements. Within their cell walls, mushrooms contain 2 types of dietary fiber: beta-glucans and chitin.
For more information on senior nutrition, reach out to the KW elderly care experts at Home Care Assistance. Our expertly trained caregivers can help prepare nutritious meals, go grocery shopping for healthy foods, and help seniors with a wide variety of tasks around the house. To learn more about the senior home care Waterloo, ON, families trust, call one of our friendly Care Managers at (519) 954-2111 to request a no-obligation consultation.