6 Foods Aging Adults with Parkinson’s Disease Should Avoid

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Which Foods Seniors with Parkinson’s Disease Should Avoid in Winnipeg, MB

Eating well-balanced meals and nutritious snacks can help seniors age well and slow the progression of neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s. The nutrients from healthy foods could ease symptoms such as tremors, muscle weakness, joint pain, and difficulty focusing. However, there are some foods seniors with Parkinson’s disease should avoid.

1. Sausage

Protein is essential for good health, but seniors with Parkinson’s need to monitor their protein sources. For example, meat is a good source of protein, but sausage is a processed option that could harm the immune system and increase blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Instead of eating sausage and other types of pork, your aging loved one should try fatty fish, skinless chicken, turkey breast, and various plant-based meats.

Many seniors have health conditions or take medications that require careful attention to diet, and some need a bit of help juggling all the details involved. In Winnipeg, home care service providers can benefit aging adults in a variety of ways. From cooking nutritious meals to offering timely medication reminders, the dedicated caregivers at Home Care Assistance are available to help your elderly loved one 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

2. Steam Bag Vegetables

Vegetables like broccoli are essential for seniors with Parkinson’s because they contain antioxidants that can stave off dopamine loss. However, your loved one should never eat steam bag vegetables, even broccoli varieties. The chemical known as bisphenol A is found in these meals, and when heated, the compound could leak into the food. To prevent exposure to harmful chemicals, your parent should choose fresh vegetables and frozen options that aren’t sold in microwave steam bags.

3. Butter

Butter, lard, and cream are used in many recipes, but they’re bad for cholesterol, metabolism, and blood pressure, which are all factors in treating Parkinson’s disease. Your parent should choose olive oil and herbs instead, as they contain antioxidants that could boost his or her mobile skills and cognitive functioning.

Managing diet and health conditions can be a challenge for seniors, and trained caregivers can help seniors plan and prepare healthy meals. Living with a serious health condition can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional live-in care. Winnipeg seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more.

4. Pasta & Bread

Making a turkey sandwich or a bowl of noodles is easy and convenient, but the ingredients, specifically white flour, could prevent the gastrointestinal tract from functioning correctly. The foods contain bad carbohydrates and large amounts of sugar that can harm the brain and weaken muscles. Instead of pasta or bread made with white flour, your loved one should eat brown rice, lettuce, leafy greens, and cauliflower.

5. Dairy

There’s no cure for Parkinson’s, but many doctors prescribe medicine to manage its symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Some dairy products can prevent Parkinson’s medication from working effectively, which is why your loved one should choose low-fat dairy products instead. Your parent should also try out vegan options, such as dairy-free cheese, yogurt, and ice cream.

6. Soda

The sugar in soda could cause a spike in blood pressure and cholesterol levels, negatively impacting the immune system and preventing older adults from managing Parkinson’s symptoms such as tremors and joint pain. Even diet soft drinks have harmful ingredients older adults need to avoid. Regular and diet sodas can increase the risk of depression, which is a common issue for adults with Parkinson’s. Instead of drinking soda, your loved one should consume more water and choose healthier beverages such as green tea and natural fruit juices. 

Professional caregivers can be a great resource for seniors who need help planning and preparing nutritious meals that are appropriate for their unique health needs. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of in-home care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. Trust Home Care Assistance to provide high-quality compassionate, professional care for your loved one. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today at (204) 489-6000. 

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