Our aging care specialists understand that it’s tough to make the right nutritional choices for heart healthy eating when recommendations appear to be constantly changing. We had been told that saturated fats from sources such as butter, red meat and fried food were detrimental and could increase the likelihood of developing heart issues, but later research revealed there isn’t enough proof that those who refrained from eating these foods improved their heart health. As a result, many people interpreted that as a green light, going back to their old ways of opting for butter instead of margarine.
However, as reported in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, researchers clarify that the lack of evident results in limiting fatty foods is likely linked to equally poor dietary choices selected in the place of those fats – such as refined carbs. In the study, it was shared that those who replaced fatty foods in their diet with more healthy options, like olive oil (a polyunsaturated fat) and whole grains did reduce their heart disease risk up to 25%.
As reported by Adela Hruby, one of many scientists in this study, “We know that people don’t just drop 10% of their calories…and not replace them with other things. What they’re adding in to replace what they’re not eating is really important.”
The research, led by Dr. Frank Hu of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, was remarkably comprehensive, tracking the results of almost 130,000 subjects of both genders over 30 years. Keeping track of nutritional choices and any heart-related conditions, it was concluded that both women and men who ate carbohydrates in place of fatty foods were developing an almost equal threat of cardiovascular disease – a statistic overlooked in older studies that had determined there was no benefit to reducing the level of saturated fat in a meal plan.
So what might be the takeaway from this report? A heart healthy diet for seniors can be gained by not merely decreasing the total amount of saturated fat in a dietary plan, but also by choosing healthier items instead of foods with lots of sugar or processed flour-based foods.
Compassionate Care is always available to plan and prepare heart-healthy meals for seniors that are not only nutritious, but appetizing, helping seniors reduce their risk for heart attacks and disease. Our professionals are also able to assist aging adults with:
- Meal preparation to aid in making wise dietary choices
- Grocery shopping to ensure fresh, healthy foods are always available
- Medication reminders
- Encouragement and support needed to engage in doctor-approved exercise programs
- Safe transportation and accompaniment to medical appointments as well as other outings
- And more
Call us at 877.308.1212 to learn more about options for senior home care in Traverse City and surrounding areas or to schedule a free assessment. Let us help you create a heart healthy diet for seniors you love.