With age, it’s especially important to care for our kidneys, and healthy kidneys begin with a healthy diet. The next time you cook a meal for your senior loved one, consider using a few of the following eight foods that promote kidney health.
1. Garlic
Garlic reduces inflammation, and it has antibacterial and cleansing properties to promote overall health. If your loved one must cut back on salt, garlic’s strong flavor makes it an excellent substitute.
2. Ginger
Similar to garlic, ginger kicks up the flavor profile of food, and it’s a great alternative to salt. Ginger also purifies the blood and reduces the workload for the kidneys.
If your loved one needs help planning and preparing nutritious meals, a home caregiver can be a great resource. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality elderly home care. Trust Assisting Hands Home Care to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.
3. Fennel
This unusual vegetable tastes like a combination of celery and licorice. Fennel is a natural diuretic that can flush the kidneys and reduce swelling associated with kidney disease.
4. Kale
A brassica family member, kale, like other dark leafy greens, packs plenty of iron. People with kidney dysfunction may have low iron levels, which can impact energy and overall vitality. The leafy green is also packed with antioxidants and offers bountiful anti-inflammatory benefits.
5. Turmeric
Indigenous to India and integral to Ayurvedic medicine, turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory agent. It can also increase circulation, which is important for proper kidney function.
A professional caregiver can encourage your loved one to make healthy food choices and help with meal preparation. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of Home Care. Portland Assisting Hands Home Care provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
6. Apples
Apples are high in fiber, which promotes intestinal health. They’re also low in potassium, which is important because if potassium levels increase beyond what dysfunctional kidneys can handle, stroke or cardiac issues can result.
7. Cranberries & Blueberries
These little berries pack an antioxidant punch and are known to promote urinary tract health by flushing uric acid from the kidneys.
8. Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are rich in antioxidants and prevent kidney stones by filtering out waste.
Consider hiring a professional caregiver if your loved one needs assistance preparing nutritious meals or handling other day-to-day activities. Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional in-home care Portland, Oregon, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated caregiver. Reach out to us at Assisting Hands Home Care if you need compassionate professional care for your loved one. Call one of our dedicated Care Managers today at 503-664-7934 to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.
