7 Types of Food Senior Stroke Survivors Shouldn’t Eat

Maintaining a healthy diet after a stroke is one of the best ways to prevent high blood pressure and high cholesterol and reduce the likelihood of a second stroke or other cardiac event. Difficulty with chewing, swallowing, and hand-to-mouth coordination as well as a waning appetite are challenges stroke survivors are likely to face, and they can make following a healthy diet more difficult. In addition to making sure your senior loved one is eating enough to support his or her recovery, you should also ensure these foods are limited or avoided entirely. 

 

1. Full-Fat Dairy Products

Dairy is an important part of a senior’s diet because it supplies essential nutrients like vitamin D and calcium. Rather than dining on full-fat cheeses, butter, milk, ice cream, and yogurt, stroke survivors should eat low-fat varieties instead. These have less saturated fat, so they’re less likely to clog the arteries. 

Although coconut oil is high in saturated fat and should be used in moderation, it’s one of the best butter substitutes to use in baked dishes, oatmeal, and other fare. This oil contains natural fats that support optimal brain health and are easily broken down and used by the body. 

Stroke survivors often need help preparing healthy meals, and a professional caregiver can be the ideal solution. If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of homecare services. Assisting Hands Home Care Potomac is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. 

 

2. Fatty Cuts of Meat

Use lean cuts of meat when preparing meals for a senior stroke survivor. While red meat can still be consumed, it should be eaten in modest quantities and only after all excess fat has been trimmed away. 

Fatty fish such as mackerel, tuna, and salmon are also acceptable. As with a modest serving of coconut oil, the benefits supplied by the fats these fish contain far outweigh the risks of consuming them. 

 

3. Processed or Refined Snacks

Many processed and refined foods are loaded with trans fats that can clog the arteries. Rather than eating potato chips, packaged pastries, or cookies, seniors can snack on low-sodium pretzels, fresh vegetables or fruits, and limited quantities of unsalted nuts or seeds. 

 

4. Ready-Made Sauces

Foods in brine or sauces that come ready-made are often high in sodium. Instead, try flavoring foods with fresh herbs, cracked black pepper, or garlic or onion powder instead. 

Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional senior care. Potomac, MD, Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.

 

5. Whole Eggs

Although egg yolks are a great source of vitamin D, stroke survivors should eat egg whites only or use egg substitutes instead. An alternative way to get adequate vitamin D in the diet is by incorporating baked, roasted, or sautéed mushrooms or taking a supplement. 

 

6. Fast Foods

Fast foods provide very limited nutritional benefits and do more harm than good. This is especially true after a stroke. Seniors should instead fill up on natural foods that are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. These food choices can repair blood vessel damage and expedite the healing process. 

 

7. Soda

Many carbonated sodas are high in both sugar and sodium. Not only do these beverages contribute to weight gain, but the excess sugar they contain may also impact the functionality of the immune system. Keeping sodas out of the diet is a very easy way to limit a person’s sodium intake as well. 

Recovering from a stroke, managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, and a variety of other health-related situations can make it difficult for a senior to continue living at home without someone there to help. Potomac, MD, live-in care professionals are trained to help seniors who need 24/7 assistance. With the help of a live-in caregiver, your elderly loved one can maintain a higher quality of life while aging in place. Call Assisting Hands Home Care at (301) 960-7892 to learn more about our flexible and customizable senior care plans.