Senior Caregivers
While some may believe that summer is solely for burgers and hot dogs, those with a green thumb know that summer is known for its fruits and vegetables! Not only are summer veggies delicious, the strong seasonal sun imbues the harvest with plentiful vitamins and nutrients.
For senior caregivers, these healthful fruits and veggies are wonderful additions to a senior’s diet. The following will explore six delicious seasonal vegetables and fruits for seniors to nosh on!
1. Blueberries
Of all the berries, blueberries may be the most nutrient-dense! When you consume a serving of blueberries, you consume 4 grams of fiber, a plentiful amount of vitamin C, and manganese. For seniors, the health benefits of blueberries are believed to help improve both cognitive skill and cardiovascular strength.
2. Peaches
Peaches are another wonderful summer snack for seniors. Their soft texture is perfect for sensitive teeth. In addition, the light laxative and diuretic effects of peaches can act as a minor cleanse for the bladder and the kidney. To top it off, the vitamin C and zinc found in peaches can help fight free radicals that cause interior degradation.
3. Tomatoes
There is nothing better than a sweet, summer tomato! This delicious treat provides almost half of the recommended intake of vitamin C. The red coloring of tomatoes is due to lycopene, a helpful antioxidant connected to improved heart health. In addition, tomatoes are also plentiful in potassium, vitamin B, and vitamin E!
4. Strawberries
Many will say that the heart shape of strawberry is a hint to how wonderful it is for your heart! Rich in vitamin C, strawberries can help protect the heart from oxidative stress, a major factor in heart disease. In fact, one serving of strawberries provides more vitamin C than an entire orange, the poster child of the aforementioned vitamin!
5. Zucchini
For seniors who are plagued by digestive issues, they should look no further than the zucchini. This summer squash is rich in water and fiber. Both of these ingredients help soften stools and promote digestion. Also rich in electrolytes, protein, and vitamin C, zucchini is a wonderful addition to any senior’s menu.
6. Basil
Often known solely for its role in pesto, basil is a delicious herb that should be included in any senior diet! This healthful herb is packed with vitamin A, potassium, iron, and calcium. Ever versatile, basil is a tasty addition to a tomato salad, pasta sauce, or chicken dish.
