Consuming dairy items can affect your senior loved one’s health in some way. Although dairy products provide many physical, mental, and emotional benefits, some of these foods and beverages can negatively impact a senior’s quality of life. Take a look at the pros and cons of dairy products for older adults.
Pro: Boosts Bone Health
Dairy products are high in calcium, potassium, and vitamin D, three nutrients that increase bone density. Having stronger bones reduces your loved one’s risk of falls, head traumas, and other serious accidents or injuries. Consuming dairy products can also decrease your loved one’s likelihood of developing osteoporosis. The calcium intake from dairy foods and beverages can strengthen the bones and prevent balance and flexibility issues and joint pain.
Including dairy products in the diet is just one of the many ways older adults can boost their health and wellbeing. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional in-home care. Vancouver, BC, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Con: Causes Digestive Issues
The way food moves through the body changes with age. The processing times tend to slow down, causing more water to be absorbed from the food waste, which can lead to constipation. Monitor the types of foods and beverages your loved one consumes. Many dairy products contain lactose, which could put more pressure on the digestive system. Too much dairy can go into the large intestines and cause diarrhea in aging adults. It is best for seniors to consume lactose-free dairy products.
Con: Increases Calorie Intake
Dairy products are typically high in fat and protein and contain little or no fiber. These products also contain too many calories to be a part of a senior’s diet unless the foods and beverages are low-fat and fat-free. Burning calories and shedding excess pounds can help seniors prevent diabetes, obesity, and other serious health issues. However, most dairy products contain a lot of calories, which could cause seniors to become overweight.
Pro: Enhances Heart Health
Dairy products contain plenty of potassium, which can help seniors lower their blood pressure levels. High blood pressure poses serious health issues for seniors, including heart attacks, strokes, or even death. Seniors with high blood pressure are also at a higher risk of kidney disease. Consuming dairy products is one of the best ways to ensure seniors have the potassium they need. It is important to monitor your loved one’s dairy intake, making sure he or she doesn’t consume too much dairy for the day.
Older adults may need help preparing nutritious meals and limiting their intake of dairy products. Whether your elderly loved one needs part-time assistance with basic household chores or you need a break from your caregiving duties, the Vancouver respite care experts at Home Care Assistance are here to help. All of our respite care services are backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts.
Pro: Reduces Oxidative Stress
Most dairy products provide seniors with high levels of glutathione, which is an antioxidant that can reduce oxidative stress. High levels of oxidative stress have been linked to Alzheimer’s disease and other serious health conditions. Fighting against oxidative stress can help your loved one stave off many age-related issues, including loss of memory and mobility.
Hiring a professional caregiver is another way to boost your loved one’s health and wellbeing. Find out how a Vancouver, British Columbia, caregiver can help your senior loved one enjoy a higher quality of life by reaching out to Home Care Assistance. All of our professional respite and live-in caregivers are trained in comprehensive Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s, and stroke care, and they can also assist seniors with basic daily tasks like exercise, cooking, bathing, and light housekeeping. To schedule a free in-home consultation, call us at today.