Are Protein Shakes Good for Seniors?
Seniors should focus on diet to maintain their health and wellbeing. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Eating healthy can also help to maintain a healthy weight, which can reduce the risk of falling. Additionally, a healthy diet can provide essential nutrients for brain health, which can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline and memory loss. Eating a healthy diet is essential for seniors to stay healthy and independent.
However, not all seniors know what to eat, or they don’t feel like cooking fresh foods anymore. This is when home care can come in really handy. They can help prepare fresh foods that a senior can easily heat up, or home care can help monitor things like salt, sugar, and protein intake. A senior should always be talking to a doctor to find out what they should eat and what they should avoid.
Protein Benefits
No matter what your senior eats, they should be eating enough protein to maintain muscle mass and stay full for longer. Eating protein can help seniors stay strong and healthy. Protein encourages muscle growth and helps combat muscle loss due to the physical impacts of aging, while also promoting joint health. Protein also helps to regulate hormones, which can diminish in later life.
Protein-rich foods help stabilize glucose levels, aiding in the prevention of diabetes. Additionally, protein strengthens bones, improves cognitive function, and motivates weight loss. Eating protein helps seniors stay healthy and strong as they age.
Are Protein Shakes Healthy for Seniors?
When seniors find out they should be eating more protein, they may automatically think of adding in protein shakes. Most of them come in pre-made bottles that you can shake up, open, and drink. It’s convenient. But is it good for them?
Shakes high in protein are a fantastic choice for the elderly. It is crucial to suggest a protein powder that is suitable for the requirements of the elderly, but seniors should always read the ingredients of the food they are consuming. Too much sugar and salt may not be the best for them.
Finding the right protein shake for a senior can help them add in calories that are much needed. When you hear about adding calories, you may think this is a bad thing, but seniors do need calories and a well-rounded diet. Protein shakes tend to be calorie-dense as well as packed with protein.
Calorie Intake
Calories are important for seniors because they supply the body with energy to maintain proper health and function. Calories are the primary source of energy for the body to perform a variety of activities such as physical movement, digestion, and rest. A balanced diet with enough calories helps seniors remain active and engaged and helps prevent chronic illnesses.
Senior citizens also need enough calories to help maintain a healthy weight and reduce their risk of developing high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and other health problems. Lastly, having enough calories helps seniors keep warm in cold weather and helps ensure that their bodies are receiving enough nutrients to fight off infections.
If you or someone you know needs help with Home Care in Grand Rapids, MI, contact Gauthier Family Home Care. We provide quality and affordable home care services in our community. Call us at (616) 258-2300 for more information.
- Understanding Osteoporosis and What to Look for in Your Aging Loved Ones - April 23, 2024
- What Your Senior Needs When Going to the Hospital - April 17, 2024
- 5 Things to Calm Your Senior Parent with Alzheimer’s - April 10, 2024