Peanut butter might be one of the last foods people reach for when planning a healthy diet. But while peanut butter is high in fat and sodium, it actually offers plenty of health benefits, too. Here are just a few reasons seniors should increase their consumption of this pantry staple.
1. Promotes Satiety & Prevents Overeating
Even though peanut butter has about 210 calories per serving, those calories are packed with fiber and protein. That means it’s an incredibly filling food, so seniors will feel satisfied for longer than if they had eaten 210 calories worth of pastries or candy. According to a 2013 study published in the British Journal of Nutrition, overweight women who ate three tablespoons of peanut butter at breakfast felt fewer hunger cravings up to 12 hours later.
Increasing their fiber and protein intake is just one of the many ways aging adults can boost their health. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elderly home care. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
2. Reduces the Risk of Heart Disease
Peanut butter and other tree nuts contain loads of healthy nutrients. In 2003, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) stated that eating 1.5 ounces per day of peanut butter or nuts reduces the risk of heart disease when consumed as part of a diet that’s low in saturated fat and cholesterol. The secret? Peanut butter is packed with monounsaturated fat and potassium, both of which are essential for heart health.
3. Reduces Blood Sugar
In a study performed by the University of Toronto, researchers found that consuming two ounces of peanut butter each day increased both glucose levels and blood fats in those with type 2 diabetes. For the best results, look for the natural kind of peanut butter and avoid reduced-fat versions, which often have added sugar.
If your loved one needs help shopping for groceries and preparing healthy meals, a home caregiver can be a fantastic resource. Many older adults are choosing to age in place, and some need a helping hand to continue living at home safely and comfortably. Luckily, there is professional home care Fort Lauderdale seniors can trust and rely on.
4. Builds Muscle Mass
Protein is an important part of building strong muscles, and peanut butter is packed with plant-based protein, the healthiest kind. In fact, one study found that people who consumed the most plant protein built the strongest thigh muscles, an area of the body that’s important for balance.
It can be challenging for seniors to prepare healthy meals, but a professional caregiver can help your loved one maintain a nutritious diet. Aging in place can present a few unique challenges for older adults. Some only require part-time assistance with exercise or meal preparation, while others are living with serious illnesses and benefit more significantly from receiving live-in care. Fort Lauderdale, FL, Assisting Hands Home Care are leaders in the elderly in-home care industry for good reason. We tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual needs, our caregivers continue to receive updated training in senior care as new developments arise, and we also offer comprehensive care for seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s. Trust your loved one’s care to the professionals at Assisting Hands Home Care. To create a customized home care plan for your loved one, call us today.
