Eight Foods for Better Bone Health
One of the conditions that older adults commonly deal with is arthritis, a group of conditions that affect the joints and cause pain. They may also suffer from osteoarthritis, a condition in which the bones become less dense and are susceptible to fractures. Although there is no specific diet for arthritis or osteoporosis, there are some foods that can help protect bone health. Below are eight foods to add to your parent’s diet to support their bone health.
#1 Fish
Fatty fish, like salmon, contain vitamin D, an important nutrient for helping the body to use calcium. They also contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can help with the inflammation that comes with arthritis. Some other fish that are good sources of omega-3s are herring, tuna, and mackerel.
#2 Tofu
A half cup of firm tofu that has been fortified with calcium contains 20 percent of the daily recommendation for calcium. It also contains protein. Tofu is a great option for people who do not tolerate dairy products well.
#3 Figs
Figs are a fruit packed with calcium, potassium, and magnesium. In fact, a serving of five figs contains 90 mg of calcium. Fresh figs may only be available in the summer and fall, but you can purchase dried figs all year.
#4 Dairy Products
Low-fat dairy products contain lots of calcium and vitamin D. Just 8 ounces of milk has a third of the recommended daily allowance of calcium. A 1.5 ounce serving of low-fat cheddar cheese has thirty percent of the calcium your parent needs. Other good options are low-fat yogurt and cottage cheese.
#5 Broccoli
Broccoli contains vitamins K and C as well as calcium. It also contains a substance called sulforaphane that research suggests may slow the rate at which osteoporosis progresses.
#6 Almonds
Almonds contain magnesium, which is important for keeping bones strong. 24 almonds contain 20 percent of the recommended daily amount of magnesium.
#7 Fortified Orange Juice
Although oranges don’t naturally contain calcium, orange juice is often fortified with calcium so that it contains as much as a glass of milk. Just be sure to read the label to find out if the brand of orange juice you buy for your parent has been fortified.
#8 Leafy Greens
Leafy greens are rich in vitamin K, a nutrient researchers believe it prevents bone loss. Examples of leafy greens are kale, Swiss chard, spinach, and collard greens.
If your parent struggles to eat well because of physical or cognitive limitations that make food preparation difficult, hiring an elderly care provider to come to their home could help. An elderly care provider can help them to grocery shop for healthy foods and prepare balanced meals. Elderly care providers can even assist your parent to eat if needed.
If you or an aging loved one are considering home health care in Mason, OH, please contact the caring staff at Queen City Elder Care today. Serving Cincinnati and Surrounding Communities. Call Us Today (513) 510-4410.
Sources:
WebMD
Cooking Light
Arthritis.org
Arthritis.org
Nof.org
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