Nutritious Summer Foods For Seniors
The foods we eat often change from one season to the next, which can make for a healthy diet full of variety. However, integrating nutrition into our diet during the summer can be extra challenging, especially with so many sweet and ice-cold treats tempting us. The list of nutritious summer foods below can help you stick to a healthier diet this summer, a habit you can carry on to any of the other seasons to keep your momentum going.
12 Nutritious Summer Foods For Seniors
These dozen nutritious foods can easily be paired with a meal or integrated into your diet as a snack. What recipes will you make with these 12 nutritious summer foods?
1. Avocados
This summer staple is rich in Vitamins B6, E, and K. Avocados are also a great source of potassium and folate.
2. Beets
Beets contain lutein, which helps protect your eyes from cataracts and macular degeneration. Beyond vision benefits, beets also help lower the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s due to their nitric acid content, which increases blood flow to the brain.
3. Berries
Blueberries, cherries, and raspberries offer several benefits. Antioxidants within the berries can help lower your risk of cardiovascular disease, and some are also high in Vitamin C, potassium, and quercetin.
4. Cabbage
Your immune system gets a boost from cabbage, which can also help with inflammation. Cabbage also contains Vitamins C and K.
5. Corn
No matter how you incorporate it into your meal, corn contains fiber, Vitamin C, lutein, and zeaxanthin, all of which support your overall well-being.
6. Eggs
Known for being high in protein, eggs also incorporate Vitamins A, D, E, B6 and B12. Lutein and zeaxanthin also contribute to your health.
7. Green Beans
If you’re having digestive issues, green beans provide the fiber necessary for regularity. The silicon in green beans also supports strong bones.
8. Spinach
Eating spinach all the time may not result in the muscles Popeye’s known for, but this leafy green is packed with vitamins and minerals, folate, and Vitamin A.
9. Summer Squash
If it’s fiber you’re after, summer squash has it, along with Vitamin A, magnesium, and potassium.
10. Sunflower Seeds
Chewing on a few sunflower seeds throughout your day helps incorporate vitamins, healthy fats, and protein into your diet.
11. Tomatoes
Whether you put them in your homemade salsa or stack them on a burger, tomatoes help reduce inflammation and fight heart disease.
12. Watermelon
Did you know that watermelon can help prevent some types of cancers? This summer staple contains antioxidants, Vitamin A, potassium, and a high water content that’s great for hydration in the sweltering heat.
Right at Home Boston North: Supporting Senior Nutrition
Nutrition is only one facet of healthy living that seniors (and people of all ages) should focus on. Right at Home Boston North also connects the local community with helpful resources to support other aspects of health. These recent blog posts are a few examples of those resources:
-
The Health Benefits of Tai Chi in Older Adults and How to Get Started
-
Nutritional Guidance for the Top 3 Chronic Diseases in Older Adults
-
Why Hydration is Important for Seniors With Dementia and Tips to Ensure Adequate Intake
