7 Foods and Beverages to Help Seniors Fight the Flu
Eating a well-balanced diet is a great way for a senior to keep his or her body functioning optimally. There are many foods and drinks seniors can consume to help strengthen the immune system and prevent the flu. Sydney East elder care professionals have identified 7 foods and drinks to include in your loved one’s diet during flu season.
1. Black Eyed Peas
While eating black eyed peas for New Year’s is a tradition in the south, eating them during the flu season is a great way to make sure your loved one gets enough zinc. This important mineral helps keep the immune system functioning properly.
2. Carrots
Carrots promote eye health, but eating them is also a great way to help keep the flu away because they are high in beta-carotene. This nutrient can help your loved one stave off respiratory infections.
3. Tea
It is important for seniors to stay well hydrated, especially during flu season. Drinking tea is a healthy way to hydrate because the beverage is loaded with important antioxidants and amino acids to help fight the flu.
4. Yogurt
Eating yogurt helps the body because it contains probiotics that strengthen the immune system. If your senior loved one does not eat yogurt, consider offering cottage cheese or sauerkraut instead because both are high in probiotics.
5. Almonds
Almonds are packed with important nutrients that help strengthen the body’s immune system. If your loved one has difficulty chewing almonds, consider almond butter instead because it packs an even more powerful punch of immunity-boosting nutrients.
6. Mushrooms
Eating mushrooms is a great way to boost your loved one’s immune system. Mushrooms can naturally help build the cells to kill the flu. They are best eaten raw because cooking them quickly destroys some of the nutrients.
7. Oranges
Consuming oranges is a great way to get vitamin C. Because the body cannot store this important flu-fighting nutrient, it is important for your loved one to consume it each day.
Getting a parent or another senior loved one to eat a well-balanced diet can help keep the flu away. Encourage your loved one to eat some of these immunity-boosting foods and drinks this season. If he or she needs help making healthy food and lifestyle choices, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a trusted name in elder care. In addition to helping your loved one prepare nutritious meals with healthy ingredients, our caregivers can also encourage him or her to adopt beneficial habits such as exercising regularly. We also provide live-in and respite care Sydney East families can rely on. Call (02) 9158 3880 to discuss our flexible elder care options with a knowledgeable Care Manager.
