5 Foods Stroke Survivors with Diabetes Should Eat

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Healthy Dietary Choices for Diabetic Stroke Survivors in Roseville, CA

A healthy diet helps senior stroke survivors recover while keeping their blood sugar within normal limits. Seniors need to check with their physicians to determine if certain foods might interact with medications. However, there are many foods considered healthy for stroke survivors with diabetes. 

1. Avocados

The oleic acid contained in avocados is known to boost cognitive ability, control blood sugar, and increase insulin sensitivity and blood circulation. Oleic acid is also found in olives, olive oil, and other vegetable oils. Avocados are high in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. They can be diced or sliced and added to salads or sandwiches, and many enjoy the mashed fruit mixed with tomatoes, onions, and other seasonings in guacamole. One cup of cubed or sliced avocado provides a little more than 200 calories.

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. Roseville, CA, 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.

2. Beans

Beans ensure glucose—the primary fuel source for neurons—travels to the brain, and they also stabilize blood sugar levels. The high fiber content in beans provides a sense of fullness that keeps seniors from needing to snack unnecessarily. Along with fiber, beans provide iron, potassium, and calcium. One cup of beans provides approximately 199 calories. Bean soup and chili are popular, easy-to-make bean dishes. Beans can also be added to other dishes or made into a healthy dip. 

3. Berries

Blueberries, strawberries, and many other types of berries are known to boost cognitive function and promote the regeneration of neurons. The fruits are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and other nutrients that provide energy without adding unwanted fat or elevating blood sugar. One cup of raw berries provides a mere 48 calories. The antioxidant flavonoids in the berries also prevent damage caused by free radicals. Berries can be enjoyed by the handful or added to cereal, salads, or smoothies. 

Dietary issues can make caring for an aging adult after a stroke increasingly challenging. If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of elder care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services.

4. Fish

Salmon, tuna, and other oily fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are compounds that are known to protect the brain and help in the healing process. Omega-3 fatty acids also promote brain plasticity, which involves the ability of neurons to create new pathways of communication and enable healing and learning. Dietary specialists recommend seniors get at least two to three servings of fish each week. One fish filet offers 142 calories along with 50 percent protein. Another source of omega-3 fatty acids to consider is egg yolks. Chia, flax, and hemp seeds can easily add omega-3 fatty acids to salads or smoothies. Cooking with olive oil is another way to get the nutrients. 

5. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are rich in an antioxidant known as lycopene. This compound is renowned for its ability to protect neurons from further damage related to the trauma caused by strokes. The fruits are high in vitamins A and C as well as potassium and fiber. One medium tomato contains a mere 22 calories. Tomatoes are easy to include in a daily diet by adding them to salads, soups, stews, and sauces. 

Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted Roseville homecare services provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Home Care Assistance is here to help. Call one of our Care Managers at (916) 226-3737 to learn about our customized in-home care plans.

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