National Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Month comes up this June and it’s the time most residents in northern states begin planting their summer crops. Men should consume two cups of fruits and three cups of vegetables each day, how well does your dad do with this recommendation? One thing that’s apparent is that many older adults do not eat enough fresh produce. If they do, they’re overlooking one of the best tips. The fruits and vegetables your dad eats should focus on all colors of the rainbow and in-home care can help.
Important Benefits of a Rainbow of Colors
Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and many of the antioxidants your dad needs the most. By choosing every color possible, your dad will get the widest variety of these important nutrients.
Antioxidants are especially important as they can help with cell health, which can lower the risk of some cancers. For example, there have been several studies between cruciferous vegetables like brussels sprouts and cabbage with a lowered risk of skin, bladder, colorectal, breast, and prostate cancers.
What Are the Different Colors to Focus On?
Vegetables and fruits come in a variety of colors. Here are the different options your dad should eat each day.
- Blue/Purple: Red cabbage, blueberries, grapes, eggplant, and other blue and purple vegetables are one of the best for brain health.
- Green: Leafy greens are one of the best additions to the diet, but you also want green vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and peas to aid with heart health, lower the risk of cancer, and increase fiber intake.
- Orange: Oranges, orange peppers, carrots, and other orange vegetables help manage eye health, the immune system, and skin health.
- Red: Tomatoes, strawberries, radishes, beets, and other red vegetables are high in antioxidants that aid the heart by helping with blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Yellow: Yellow peppers, corn, and mangos are some of the yellow vegetables that are high in antioxidants and help with skin health and protection of the nervous system.
- White: White fruits and vegetables have higher levels of fiber and include options like potatoes, bananas, onions, and mushrooms.
Have Caregivers Available to Cook Your Dad’s Meals and Snacks
Does your dad struggle with meal planning and preparation? Can he shop for his own groceries or does he need someone to join him? Arrange in-home care services to ensure he has the support he needs while shopping and preparing meals.
In-home care aides will talk to your dad about the things he likes to eat, come up with meal plans with him, and shop for groceries together or pick them up for him. His caregivers will cook meals, get his snacks, and make sure he’s drinking plenty of water.
If you or an aging loved-one is considering In-Home Care in Rialto, CA please contact the caring staff at Calvary Senior Care today. (866) 710-8767
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