Cooking Tips for Seniors to Reduce Their Risk of Cancer
Did you know that behind heart disease, cancer is the second leading cause of death in the US? Many factors can determine a person’s cancer risk, including genetics, lifestyle, environment, and diet. But while you’re not in control of your genetic makeup, you can take charge of what you eat.
A nutritious, well-balanced diet plays a pivotal role in cancer prevention. Foods loaded with vitamins and minerals support your immune system, helping your body recover faster while reducing your risk of cancer and other chronic diseases.
Use these easy tips to prepare delicious, nutritious meals and reduce your risk of cancer.
Eat High-Fiber Foods
Foods that are high in fiber can help reduce your cancer risk. They also create a feeling of fullness and promote digestive health. A few high-fiber foods to add to your diet include:
- Beans
- Broccoli
- Potatoes
- Carrots
- Spinach, kale, and other dark leafy greens
Not in the mood for veggies? Blueberries, avocados, apples, and whole grains are also fiber-rich foods.
Cook More Meals at Home
While eating out every once in a while is perfectly fine, don’t do it every day. Cooking at home allows you to control what ingredients go into your food.
Preparing every meal at home can be daunting. This is especially true for seniors with limited mobility or chronic health conditions. Visiting Angels’ Charleston in-home caregivers can help with meal planning and preparation. Our knowledgeable and compassionate caregivers can develop a meal plan that fits your nutritional needs and goals. They can also drive you to the grocery store and help you cook flavorful meals at home. Cooking with a caregiver is also enjoyable. You’ll love chatting about your day with someone who feels like an old friend.
Quick Cooking Tips
It’s important to incorporate more cancer-fighting foods into your daily diet. Have a side of beans for dinner, or add kale to your breakfast smoothie. Here are a few additional cooking tips to try.
- Swap out the butter or salt with fresh herbs and spices. A spoonful of olive oil is healthy and tasty!
- Add more veggies to your pasta sauces, stews, or soups.
- Lean into plant-based foods. Replace red meat with lean, fiber-rich vegetables or fruits. You can still get plenty of protein by eating nuts, seeds, legumes, and tofu.
- Add nutritious fruits and veggies to your smoothie. Make a Blueberry Blast smoothie by blending unsweetened blueberries, orange juice, vanilla Greek yogurt, a banana, and pure vanilla extract. Yum!
- Eat more whole grains, such as barley, brown rice, and quinoa.
Visiting Angels’ caregivers can help you plan and prepare these cancer-fighting meals.
Compassionate Caregiving Services
Are you considering at-home caregiving services? If so, contact Visiting Angels’ Charleston, WV branch. We’ve been providing award-winning caregiving solutions to seniors since 1998. Our caregivers can help you or a loved one prepare wholesome meals, assist with light housekeeping, and provide support with other daily tasks.
Contact us today at 304-400-4946. We proudly serve the communities of Charleston, Saint Albans, Alum Creek, Pliny, and the surrounding areas.