As the summer sun swelters down, it’s imperative for seniors to stay healthy during the heat. During these hot days, what better way to cool off than a delicious bowl of seasonal fruit? The following will explore just four seasonal fruits that are perfect for promoting senior health during the summer!
1. Watermelon
For many, it isn’t officially summer until they’ve had a bowl of juicy watermelon. Luckily for them, this fruit is as healthy as it is yummy!
According to dietician Ruth Frechman watermelons have a “staggering amount of nutrients that seniors need.” Ask any home health aid or health care provider and they’ll tell you: watermelons are great for seniors because they contain a large amount of lycopene.
Lycopene is an antioxidant that can also be found in tomatoes. The antioxidant is responsible for giving watermelons their juicy red color. They are also responsible for improving heart health and protection against sun damage! This protection from the sun is especially crucial for seniors, as elderly individuals are particularly vulnerable to sun damage during the scorching rays of summer.
2. Avocados
Contrary to popular opinion, avocados are actually fruits! These nutrient-dense fruits are a perfect topping to a pot of beans or a bowl of gazpacho. Avocados are not only creamy and delicious, they are incredibly healthy for seniors.
Avocados contain heightened levels of potassium and monounsaturated fats. Both of these components coalesce together to create the perfect recipe for heart healthiness! Many studies have also shown that the higher levels of phytosterol in avocados can even help quell inflammation and arthritic symptoms.
3. Strawberries
For seniors living with diabetes, strawberries have been found to be the perfect snack. According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, strawberries “contain slow-release carbohydrates.” This term means that the carbs are digested in the lower intestine and not the stomach.
Due to their digestive practice, slow release carbs are able to break down slowly and help keep blood sugar levels stable. Thus, strawberries are great for those elderly individuals watching their blood sugar this summer!
4. Peaches
One of the best parts of summer is an abundance of delicious peaches! These juicy fruits are healthy and surprisingly effective stress relievers. This is because peaches not only promote urinary and digestive health, they also contain a natural sedative!
Many individuals have reported that they find themselves calming after eating a peach. So, especially during these stressful times, seniors (and non-seniors alike) can find solace this summer in a healthy dosage of peaches!
If you need advice about caring for a senior contact a in-Home Health care Services, today.
