Heart Smart Diet for Older Adults and Anthem Senior Living in Phoenix

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If you don’t live under the rocks, you most probably would be aware of the rise in the obesity rates in the country which has reached epidemic status. This is also leading to increase in the rate of heart disease among people. The two main factors that causes obesity include lack of exercise and a poor diet. Again, heart disease is the leading cause behind the occurrence of cardiac emergencies which can be life-threatening for someone. It is advisable to keep heart disease at bay. The primary risk factors include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking and obesity. Managing the risk factors can significantly lower the risk for getting heart disease.

It can be tough in taking care of an older adult suffering from memory or mobility issues. The best option is to go for an assisted living facility for assisted care and support. Anthem Senior Living is one such assisted living provider in the Phoenix region in Arizona. It is an award-winning facility that comprises some of the most compassionate and experienced caregivers.

Today, we are going to discuss in brief about a heart-smart diet that can prove to be beneficial for you in avoiding obesity and other health concerns.

Fat in the Diet:

1. Low-fat diets were a rage among people several decades ago. Supermarket shelves were dominated by convenience foods and snack foods that promoted themselves as low-fat. But, something which went unnoticed is the fact that they were high in sugar which can be even more dangerous than fat in our daily diet. All of this led to distinguishing between healthy and unhealthy fats.
2. Nutritionists advice people to eat a diet rich in healthy fats, which they say are found in things like full-fat milk products, grass-fed beef, avocados, eggs, and olive oil.
3. Cardiologists, on the other hand, recommend the DASH diet and Mediterranean-style eating plan to their patients.

DASH Diet– DASH stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension and was created by the National Institutes of Health for promoting maintenance of healthy weight, which helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol (the major heart disease risk factors).

Principles of DASH diet are vegetables, fruits, and whole grains; fat-free or low-fat dairy products; lean protein sources such as poultry, beans, and fish; a substantial amount of healthy nuts, such as walnuts, almonds, pistachios, and Brazil nuts; use of olive oil instead of oils high in saturated fat.

DASH diet strategies with respect to foods to avoid:

1. Limit daily sodium levels to between 1,500 and 2,300 mg.
2. Eliminate sugary beverages, pastries, and baked goods.
3. Restrict foods high in saturated fat, such as processed meat; full-fat dairy; and coconut, palm kernel, and palm oils.

When it comes to eating well, planning is integral to success. Consult a nutritionist with regards to what to eat and what not as per your age and health requirements. A balanced diet full of smart choices like lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, nuts, legumes, and low-fat dairy choices is the best way to achieve wellness and good nutrition.

Anthem Senior Living’s dining program has been designed to promote a healthy and well-balanced diet for the residents. So, book a suite for your loved one and gain the benefits.

We have a beautiful suite available that is fully furnished, jack-n-jill bathroom adjacent. Can accommodate a Temperpedic adjustable bed, wall mounted TV, Lift Recliner etc. You’re more than welcome to use our furnishings or bring your own! Call Today!