In healthy individuals, inflammation is the body’s natural response to recover from injury or illness. However, many people—particularly seniors—experience problematic inflammation that can contribute to several health problems, such as arthritis, heart disease, and asthma. If you provide elderly care for someone that struggles with this health issue, certain dietary changes can provide relief and prevent flare-ups. Here are just a few foods shown to offer anti-inflammatory properties.  

Inflammation & Elderly Care: 3 Foods That Can Help Prevent Problems

1. Fish

According to the Arthritis Foundation®, many types of fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that can help protect against inflammation. Specifically, omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the number of proteins in the body that trigger the inflammatory response—such as CRP and interleukin 6. Some of the best sources of this nutrient include salmon, tuna, and sardines.

2. Antioxidant-Rich Produce

Sweet treats—particularly those that contain refined carbohydrates—can prompt inflammation. Fortunately, if you’re craving something sweet, fruit can be a nutritional alternative that also helps minimize the inflammatory response.

Fruits—such as blueberries and apples—contain antioxidants and polyphenols. Both of these naturally occurring components are designed to inhibit bodily processes that cause inflammation.

Apart from fruit, elderly care providers may also consider serving up green vegetables that contain antioxidants and polyphenols, such as broccoli, kale, and spinach.

3. Nuts & Seeds

Many elderly care providers may avoid serving seniors nuts, due to their naturally high-fat content. However, studies show that the nutritional profile of nuts and seeds is linked to a lower incidence of inflammation in adults. Along with antioxidants, fiber, and magnesium, the monounsaturated fats found in many nuts and seeds are believed to contribute to this health benefit. Some of the best nuts for these nutritional components include almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and sunflower seeds—all of which can provide a healthy, satisfying, and crunchy snack.

Managing inflammation in an older loved one can be difficult—especially if they have other chronic illnesses. That’s why Hillview Health Care Center offers comprehensive elderly care services to clients in the La Crosse, WI, region. In addition to offering comfortable and affordable senior housing, this community is staffed with caring nursing professionals to provide the ultimate peace of mind. Through medication management, rehab services, and nutritional counseling, these specialists can help residents control chronic health issues—including inflammation—in a comfortable and compassionate manner. Visit this senior community online to learn more about their capabilities or call (608) 789-4800 for details on current housing availability.