How Can My Lactose-Intolerant Loved One Get Sufficient Calcium?
By Home Care Assistance Des Moines 9 am on
As almost 75 percent of adults experience difficulty digesting lactose, many seniors find it challenging to get enough calcium. For seniors who are lactose intolerant, a lack of dairy in the diet may mean they have or will develop a calcium deficiency. To ensure your senior loved one gets enough calcium every day, incorporate the following foods into his or her diet.
Collard Greens
One cup of collard greens has 350 milligrams of bone-strengthening calcium per serving. Collard greens can be a little difficult to eat raw and are best served cooked or lightly steamed. To make a simple side dish, stir washed and dried collard greens in olive oil over medium-high heat with chopped garlic for three to four minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste. For a boost of protein and a more filling dish, add shredded cooked ham at the end.
Canned Sardines & Salmon
Eating calcium-rich foods has been shown to prevent osteoporosis in seniors. Canned fish with bones, such as sardines and salmon, can provide up to 350 milligrams of calcium per serving. As they’re also full of omega-3 fatty acids, serving sardines or lox on crackers or a bagel is a fast way to incorporate essential nutrients in an easy snack. Seniors with osteoporosis can reduce the risks of falls and fractures by receiving help from a professional caregiver. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
White Beans
Besides bone health, calcium is responsible for normal blood clotting and nerve pulse conduction. Most beans have some amount of calcium, but white beans have the most, at 240 milligrams per cup. For a tasty way to incorporate white beans into your loved one’s meal plan, make a simple soup by cooking the beans with veggies, olive oil, and chicken broth over medium-high heat until the ingredients are soft. Seniors who need assistance with preparing healthy meals can benefit from professional in-home care. Whether your elderly loved one needs part-time assistance with basic household chores or you need a break from your caregiving duties, the Des Moines respite care experts at Home Care Assistance are here to help. All of our respite care services are backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts.
Soy Milk & Almond Milk
Non-dairy milks are full of calcium and vitamin B12, helping elderly bodies regulate hormones and enzyme production. One cup of soy milk or almond milk provides 200 milligrams of the daily recommended 1,200 milligrams of calcium for seniors, so a bowl of cereal or a simple smoothie can be a healthy choice. For a midafternoon snack, blend one-half cup of soy milk with frozen banana slices, frozen strawberries, vanilla, and honey and serve immediately. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elder care. Des Moines, IA, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. Call one of our friendly Care Managers at (515) 264-2438 to schedule a free consultation.
