Vegetables are rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals that can help fight certain diseases. You hear that leafy greens are one of the best vegetable choices, but there are others. The best diet contains vegetables and fruits from all color categories.
Vegetables help your body in many ways. From helping boost the immune system to protecting against certain cancers, a rainbow of produce colors is important. Help your parents by making sure they have these options available in their refrigerator.
Blue/Purple
Blue and purple fruits and vegetables are rich in anthocyanins. These phytochemicals are rich in antioxidants and have some agents that help lower the risk of cancer. Blueberries are one of the best choices as they’ve been linked to lowering the risk of bone fractures, lowering blood pressure, helping with collagen production, and slowing cognitive decline.
Green
The chlorophyll in leafy greens helps with healthy eyes and skin. They also help lower the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. Green vegetables like cabbage and broccoli are cruciforms that offer additional cancer-fighting benefits.
Orange/Yellow
Orange vegetables like carrots are high in carotenoids that may improve eye health. They also lower oxidation damage in the cells. Orange fruits are high in antioxidants and vitamin C. Yellow vegetables are also rich in bio-flavonoids that help the body process vitamin C. Yellow bell peppers are a great choice as they have high water content and are low in calories.
Red
Lycopene in red vegetables and fruits helps fight damage to the cells known as oxidation. They also help lower the risk of certain cancers. They’re also rich in anthocyanins that help fight inflammation. Tomatoes are a great choice, but you should also stock up red raspberries and strawberries.
White/Brown
White fruits and vegetables are high in potassium, magnesium, and often fiber, too. Vegetables like cauliflower are also cruciforms that are believed to be one of the best options for lowering the cancer risk. Turnips are great for boosting fiber intake.
Another vegetable that falls into the white/brown category is onions. Onions are rich in allicin that is believed to help with heart health and maintaining healthier cholesterol levels.
Senior care services become helpful when your parents struggle with daily tasks like meal preparation and shopping. If your dad can’t chop vegetables due to arthritis pain or your mom is in the early stages of Alzheimer’s and can’t organize a list, caregivers help out. Talk to a senior care specialist to discuss shopping and food preparation services.
Sources:
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/blog/blogcollectionpage/eat-a-rainbow
If you are considering senior care in West Memorial, TX, for an aging loved one, please call the caring staff at At Your Side Home Care. We will answer all of your senior care questions. Call today: (832) 271-1600.
Our Certified Nurse Aides, 24-Hour Live-in Assistants and Home Health Aides are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We also provide the security and confidence of 24-hour Telephone Assistance, so fast, reliable help is always available when it's needed. To learn more about our homecare services see our homecare services page.
Different people need different levels of homecare. To meet the requirements of our clients, At Your Side Homecare maintains consistent staffing levels of caring professionals. Homecare service is available for as little as a few hours a week, or as many as 24 hours a day, seven days a week
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