Everyone should eat protein to maintain muscle mass, fuel energy, make hormones, repair bones, and build enzymes. This is why it can be so crucial to eat the right amount of protein and especially for your elderly loved ones. If you have a senior mom or dad, but you’re unsure if they need more protein in their diets, they need to go to their doctors. A doctor may provide nutrition guidelines or recommend a good nutritionist for a senior to see. Once seniors know what they should be eating, they can find recipes and allow home care assistance to help make meals in advance. It can be easy to add in more protein, but here are the best tips for seniors to follow when trying to add in more protein.
Make Protein a Priority Before Carbs
You and your senior may stray toward the carbs as soon as you start cooking. When you eat tons of carbs, your body may crave hefty carbs to feel full. So, if you’re trying to add more protein, think about it before planning a meal around bread or noodles. A small shift of focus can be a huge game-changer when adding more protein. Find a protein and build a dish around that instead of a carb-based meal.
Try To Stick With Animal Protein
If you are looking for a high-protein meal, this can easily be found and met with animal protein. However, keep in mind that not all meat is the same. For example, red meat can contain high levels of bad cholesterol, and fried chicken can be filled with trans fats and too much sodium. Instead of opting for one of those, try a fresh, organic grilled chicken or, better yet, fish. These can be low-calorie options with a very high protein amount.
Use Plant Protein
Animal protein gives a senior a serious boost in protein amounts, but plant protein is wonderful too. Things like garbanzo beans and quinoa can be super high protein and incredibly filling. Pair these with chicken meat or salads to get vegetables and protein. When in doubt, always add it to a summer salad.
Use Snacks
Snacking may have been frowned upon as a kid; maybe your parents said it would spoil the whole meal. But this is a great way of getting a small protein boost and extra calories throughout the day. Give your senior nuts to snack on. These tend to be super filling and full of vitamins, minerals, and protein that your senior’s body needs and may even crave.
Ask Your Doctor for More Help
If your senior still isn’t reaching their protein goals with these tips, it’s time to take them to a doctor. There may be protein supplements that will help your loved one boost their levels. However, if your senior mom or dad starts taking protein shakes, it can be best to ensure it has a doctor’s approval. Some store products are filled with sugar and things that are not very good for your body. Be careful about the products you use and ask a doctor when necessary.
If you or an aging loved one are considering home care assistance in Tarboro, NC, please contact the caring staff at East Carolina Home Care today. Call (252) 321-5510.
Providing quality home care for seniors and families in and around Greenville, Rocky Mount, Tarboro, Hookerton, Farmville, Elm City, Wilson, Kinston, Snow Hill, Williamson, Goldsboro, and Washington in North Carolina.
- Fun DIY Halloween Projects for Seniors - October 12, 2023
- 5 Things All Seniors With Alzheimer’s Need - September 22, 2023
- Reducing Stress Through Physical Activity For Seniors - September 8, 2023
