4 High-Fat Foods All Seniors Should Eat

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4 Tasty Fatty Foods That Are Beneficial for Senior Health in Jefferson Co, CO

While high-fat foods usually raise the red flag when you or an at-home caregiver are planning a nutritious diet for your senior loved one, some foods that are high in fat are actually healthy. Here are four fatty foods with key benefits for seniors that help outweigh the fat percentage and calorie count.

1. Almonds

Like most nuts, almonds are relatively high in fat and calories. One ounce of almonds contains 160 calories, 14 grams of unsaturated fat, and 6 grams of protein. But in addition to the fat, that ounce also contains 40 percent of the daily recommended dosage of vitamin E, which protects the body from damage caused by free radicals and supports skin, eyes, and the immune system. They’re also rich in phytochemicals, compounds that lower risk for cancer and heart disease.

2. Avocados

You’ve probably heard avocados called a superfood because of their many nutritional benefits. One serving provides 40 percent of the daily recommended intake of fiber, important for healthy digestion and for lowering cholesterol. Avocados are also rich in lutein, an antioxidant that supports healthy vision. And although one avocado contains up to 23 grams of fat, it’s primarily heart-healthy monounsaturated fat.

3. Fatty Fish

The American Heart Association recommends that seniors eat two servings of a fatty fish, like salmon, tuna, or mackerel, each week. These species are an important source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support both brain and cardiac health (especially important for those who are aging). 

4. Olive Oil

Swapping out butter for olive oil in cooking, salad dressing, and other applications has been proven in numerous studies to prevent heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. In addition, a new Spanish study suggests that ingesting olive oil may actually slow the aging process at a molecular level. That’s not carte blanche, though. Since one tablespoon of this oil contains 120 calories, make sure your loved one doesn’t overdo it.

If you would like to learn more about promoting the health and wellness of a senior loved one, reach out to Home Care Assistance. We are a trusted provider of senior home care in Jefferson County, offering 24/7 availability and customized care plans. Give us a call at (303) 987-5992 and request a complimentary consultation today.

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