What Should Seniors with Celiac Disease Eat?

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Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder whereby gluten, a wheat protein, causes intestinal damage. Seniors with this disease must follow a strict diet to prevent gastrointestinal distress. Older adults with celiac disease can’t eat wheat, which is found in cereals, breads, pastas, and other common foods, but it doesn’t mean they can’t have a fulfilling diet. Here are a few foods sure to entice seniors with celiac disease.

Rice 

Unlike many other grain products, rice doesn’t contain gluten. Rice is a filling accompaniment to stir-fried vegetables and other healthy meals. Seniors with celiac disease can try pairing a bowl full of rice with their favorite protein and some vegetables. They can also prepare chicken, carrots, green beans, and broccoli with some sauce and pour it atop a bed of rice for a nutritious, gluten-free meal.

Celiac disease is one of the many health conditions older adults are susceptible to. 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 home care. Trust Assisting Hands Home Care to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.

Gluten-Free Oatmeal 

Oats don’t necessarily have gluten. However, they’re often prepared using the same equipment as wheat, which can lead to contamination. A bowl of oatmeal is a healthy start to a senior’s morning, but to ensure it doesn’t cause stomach pain, purchase gluten-free oats. Half a cup of gluten-free oats should be tolerable for seniors with celiac disease, and it provides antioxidants, soluble fiber, and nutrients that lower cholesterol levels.

Beans 

Beans are yet another type of starch that doesn’t contain gluten. They’re packed with essential nutrients seniors need to stay healthy, including protein, fiber, complex carbs, and potassium. Seniors can eat beans as a side dish, or they can cook them in a healthy turkey chili dish. Either way, they’ll benefit from this inexpensive yet potent source of protein.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are one of the healthiest foods in the world, and they’re also great for seniors with celiac disease who are craving carbs. This type of root vegetable contains beta-carotene and antioxidants, which provide protection against free radicals, and vitamin C, which boosts the immune system. While sweet potatoes are a popular side dish, they can also be the basis of an entire meal. Seniors or their caregivers can make dishes like sweet potato hash with eggs, mashed sweet potato bowls topped with chicken and vegetables, and sweet potato soup flavored with ginger.

Seniors with celiac disease or other health conditions may need assistance with preparing healthy meals. If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of at-home care. Potomac seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable respite caregivers.

Quinoa

Quinoa is a delicious gluten-free alternative to pasta or standard oatmeal. It can be dressed in a variety of ways, and it can be eaten on its own or paired with fruits or vegetables. Seniors with celiac disease can try making quinoa salads with cashews, carrots, and a hint of cilantro. They could also experiment with quinoa to make healthy gluten-free cookies or protein bars. This tasty grain contains the amino acid lysine, which assists in healthy tissue production. It also has fiber, potassium, magnesium, and several other nutrients that are essential for health and wellbeing. 

Older adults with celiac disease or other medical conditions can benefit from receiving professional in-home care. Though you may be researching multiple agencies that provide elder care, Potomac, MD, Assisting Hands Home Care has much to offer your family and your elderly loved one. We are leaders in the senior home care industry, offering around-the-clock assistance from reliable, experienced caregivers. Trust Assisting Hands Home Care to help your loved one enjoy a happier and healthier life in the golden years. To hire a compassionate, dedicated caregiver, call us at (301) 363-2580 today.