When it comes to meal prep for seniors, there are unique considerations that should be taken into account in order to ensure they get the right nutrients to support a healthy lifestyle today and over time.
Benefits of Heart-Healthy Meal Prep
Preparing and eating heart-healthy meals are important for individuals of all ages, but they become especially crucial as we age. Providing seniors with the right kind of nutrition is an essential part of caring for them. Heart-healthy meal prep makes eating healthy easy!
Lower Risk of Heart Disease
Eating foods that are high in fat and cholesterol, such as processed meats, can raise unhealthy lipids in the body and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Heart-healthy meals emphasize fresh produce, proteins from fish or poultry, and whole grains while limiting fatty and fried options like red meat and French fries.
Improved Nutrition
Preparing meals that are specifically tailored for elderly health can improve the overall nutrition of seniors' diets. Meal prepping also limits snacking by making mealtime easier. By reducing sugar-filled desserts or snacks and replacing them with more natural options like nuts or whole fruit, these meal plans ensure seniors get the essential vitamins their body needs while avoiding foods that could potentially be harmful to their long-term health.
Heart-Healthy Meals to Try
It can be hard to know where to start when it comes to heart-healthy meal prep. Here are some simple recipes to add to your repertoire.
Grilled Chicken and Vegetables
A classic and simple meal. Start by marinating a few pieces of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in some light dressing or olive oil, lemon juice and dill. Grill them until done and serve with your choice of veggies. Grilling adds great flavor to vegetables like peppers, artichokes, and onions.
Baked Salmon with Asparagus and Carrots
Salmon is an excellent source of healthy fats and proteins. Baking your salmon adds fantastic flavor and is easy to do on one sheet pan with carrots for 13-14 minutes before serving with carrots and asparagus.
Quinoa Harvest Bowl with Roasted Root Vegetables
For a heart-healthy dish that's rich in flavor, roast sweet potatoes, butternut squash, and beets, and then add cooked quinoa to bowls along with roasted vegetables, nuts of choice like almonds or walnuts, apples or pears for natural sweetness, goat cheese if desired and a light vinaigrette dressing for extra flavor.
Different Dietary Elements Are Good for Different Ages
As we age, our bodies need different foods in order to remain healthy. Compromises like soft cooked vegetables, as opposed to raw salads, can still provide essential vitamins and minerals while making mealtime easier. Always consult a physician or nutritionist before making drastic changes to your diet.
Senior Helpers Greater San Antonio Provides Unique In-Home Care Options
Senior Helpers Greater San Antonio provides support in San Antonio, Helotes, Alamo Heights, Kerrville, Castroville, Converse, Floresville, La Vernia, and Von Ormy Poteet. With specialized in-home care services, your senior relatives can maintain their independence while ensuring they get healthy meals that they enjoy eating. Contact us today to discuss our unique offerings!