Many seniors have salt restrictions due to high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney problems, or other health conditions. When cooking for the beloved seniors in our lives, we want to provide meals that are comforting and delicious while still complying with dietary restrictions. Anyone who has made a meal for an aging loved one knows it can be challenging to find meals that are both healthy and satisfying. Here are a few tasty low-sodium meals and salt alternatives for senior health.
Banana Split Oatmeal
The “banana split” in the name says it all. This breakfast is quick and delicious. The recipe calls for just a hint of salt, but you can leave it out and your loved one will still think this is the best breakfast he or she has had in a while. If your parent doesn’t like bananas, try substituting other fruits instead, such as strawberries or blueberries. You can also use nonfat Greek yogurt with a little honey instead of frozen yogurt.
Reducing sodium intake isn’t the only way older adults can boost their health. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional in-home care. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Brown Rice Bowl with Grilled or Baked Tofu & Steamed Vegetables
Brown rice is rich in nutrients and fiber and can be served with all sorts of different dishes. Tofu, when prepared correctly, is a delicious and satisfying substitute for other proteins. For this recipe, use a low-sodium soy sauce along with heart-healthy sesame oil and fresh garlic to make a delicious tofu marinade. Top the dish with some steamed veggies for extra fiber and vitamin C.
Hearty Bowl of Chili
Though delicious, a hearty bowl of chili isn’t often the healthiest meal. This crockpot chili recipe is a lighter and healthier version of the classic dish because it omits ground beef and uses chicken breast instead. Add multiple kinds of beans to increase the flavor, texture, and nutrient content of the dish, and throw in both squash and zucchini. Your loved one will enjoy the subtle sweetness and nutty flavor of this rich yet healthy chili that’s perfect for cold winter nights.
It can be challenging for overworked caregivers to assist seniors with preparing nutritious meals every day. In San Diego, home care service agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Assisting Hands Home Care, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. Our caregivers encourage seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.
Dietary Substitutes for Salt
Your loved one can enjoy a wide variety of tasty foods without having to add salt to them. Keep your loved one’s food flavorful and healthful with these salt alternatives:
- Nutritional yeast – High in protein and B vitamins, nutritional yeast is a great option not only to boost the flavor of food but also to get much-needed nutrition. It can be sprinkled on popcorn, used in Italian dishes, or stirred into creamy sauces.
- Herbs and spices – Dried or fresh herbs and spices can brighten up a dish that may seem boring without salt. Basil, thyme, and oregano all taste great in Italian dishes, cumin boosts the flavor of Mexican food, and ginger is a great option for Asian meals.
- Liquid amino acids – If your loved one enjoys soy sauce, liquid amino acids provide much of the same flavor without the added sodium. Liquid amino acids are derived from soybeans, which makes them taste similar to the soy or tamari sauce that’s often used in Asian cooking.
From preparing low-sodium meals to exercising on a daily basis, older adults may need help with a wide variety of everyday activities. Aging in place can present a few unique challenges for older adults. Some only require part-time assistance with exercise or meal preparation, while others are living with serious illnesses and benefit more significantly from receiving around-the-clock Home Care. San Diego Assisting Hands Home Care are leaders in the elderly in-home care industry for good reason. We tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual needs, our caregivers continue to receive updated training in senior care as new developments arise, and we also offer comprehensive care for seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s. Call one of our dedicated Care Managers today to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.
