I have always been in pretty good health, so I was surprised one day when my doctor told me my blood pressure was a bit high. She told me to begin watching my salt intake, start exercising, and to try to relax. Well, I intended to follow her advice when I left her office, but the next day I was back to my same habits. I kept using the salt shaker and didn't begin an exercise routine like I had planned. When I went for my next check-up, she told me that my blood pressure was even higher and approaching a dangerous level. I had to begin a blood pressure medication to manage it. I wanted to create a blog to share my story and remind people to listen to their doctors' advice. If a few lifestyle changes can improve your health, then you should make them.
Osteoporosis is a disease that can diminish bone density, therefore putting the elderly population at risk of broken or fractured bones. Approximately 54 million Americans suffer from osteoporosis. The condition is common in men and women aged 50 and older. The older a person is, the more likely they are to develop osteoporosis. Fortunately, knowing what foods to eat and which to avoid can help reduce injuries related to osteoporosis.
Don't Consume Too Much Protein
Although protein offers certain health benefits, particularly with relation to bone density, too much protein may increase the risk of osteoporosis. If you care for a person that already suffers from osteoporosis, a diet high in protein may increase the risk of broken bones and fractures. Western cultures typically eat a diet that is high in protein. Either lessen protein intake or add more vegetables and fruits to the daily menu rather than decreasing protein intake.
Do Consume Foods That Are High in Calcium
Calcium is an important ingredient that should be consumed by elderly populations that are either at risk or already suffering from osteoporosis. Although milk may seem like the obvious choice, there are plenty of other foods that have a higher calcium content. Whereas milk has a calcium content of 300 mg, yogurt offers 450 mg of calcium. The calcium content of soy milk ranges from 200 mg to 400 mg. Offer yogurt as a daily snacks to seniors in need.
Don't Consume Soda and Coffee
Soda and coffee are both caffeine-rich beverages that have the potential to reduce bone density. Aside from the fact that soda is loaded with sugar and calories that may otherwise prove detrimental to the physical and dental health of seniors, it is also bad for the bones. Instead, offer drinks such as soy milk and water. Hydration is important for seniors, so switch up their daily dietary regimen to help them avoid the intake of both soda and coffee.
Do Consume Caffeinated Tea
If you care for a senior that finds it absolutely difficult to completely remove caffeine from their diet, offer caffeinated tea instead. Scientists have recently discovered that caffeinated tea does not have the same effect as both coffee and soda. Make sure you opt for freshly brewed tea rather than sugary store bought teas.
Don't Consume Too Much Sodium
Studies dating as far back as the 1980s have linked calcium loss to increased sodium intake. Avoid diets that are high in sodium in order to reduce the risk of calcium loss. Rather than dousing a senior's plate in salt for flavoring, opt for other spices and seasonings instead. Avoiding salty foods may help reduce the threat of injuries related to osteoporosis.
Do Include More K2 in Diet Plans
If you are providing foods for a senior that is either suffering or at risk of osteoporosis, you need to provide diet plans that contain vitamin K2. Vitamin K2 offers several health benefits in terms of prostate health, bone health, and the health of your skin, brain, and cardiovascular system. Foods that are rich in K2 include salami, ground beef, butter, chicken liver, and chicken breast.
If you are having trouble developing a dietary plan for seniors at risk of injuries related to osteoporosis, make sure you speak with a physician. A physician can provide you with information as far as which foods to consume and which to avoid. In learning what foods work best, you will be able to provide a better menu for the senior that is under your care. Providing better care to seniors and tailoring to their needs will make for a happier, healthier individual. You may also want to work with a company that offers at home healthcare, so the care provider can be in the home helping you plan the meals for your loved one.
Share28 September 2015
