Which Nutrients in Corn Can Boost Senior Health?

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Nutrients in Corn that Benefit Elderly Health in Barrie, ON

Corn can provide numerous health benefits for the elderly. This is because it contains a combination of nutrients that make it a powerful weapon in the fight against various age-related conditions. Here are a few reasons your senior loved one may want to add more corn to his or her diet.

Fiber

Just one medium-sized ear of corn provides 10 percent of the recommended daily allowance of fiber. Insoluble fiber is the main type of fiber in corn, and it facilitates the movement of stool through the digestive system and relieves constipation. Corn also contains soluble fiber, which forms into a gel-like substance in the body and aids in lowering cholesterol and glucose levels in the blood. The high fiber content of corn may also protect against diverticulosis, which causes pouches in the wall of the colon, leading to cramps, bloating, and flatulence. Fiber can also provide a feeling of satiety. This can reduce your loved one’s overall caloric intake, which can be helpful for metabolism.

Lutein

Corn is a good source of lutein, which is important for preventing age-related macular degeneration and slowing the progression of cataracts. In addition to supporting eye health, lutein can also benefit cardiovascular function. It can reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes by preventing hardening of the arteries.

A professional caregiver with training in nutrition can be a wonderful source of information and support as your loved one adopts new healthy habits, including eating a more nutritious diet. In Barrie, senior home care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Home Care Assistance, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.

B Vitamins

Folate, one of the B vitamins found in corn, can be used to combat anemia and boost neurological health. Corn is a source of vitamin B1, also known as thiamin. Thiamin aids both cardiovascular and nervous system health, and it also supports metabolism.

Beta-Carotene

Yellow corn contains high levels of beta-carotene, making it slightly more nutritious than white corn. Beta-carotene is essential for healthy vision, and it works with lutein to combat vision impairment in older adults, minimizing the risk of developing macular degeneration and cataracts. This carotenoid is also converted to vitamin A in the body, which strengthens the immune system. Getting vitamin A through corn instead of a supplement can be especially beneficial because the beta-carotene that isn’t converted into vitamin A stays in the body and fights off other diseases.

Family caregivers need to maintain a healthy lifestyle too, which involves self-care and making time to attend to their own wellbeing. Barrie respite care professionals can assist seniors with a wide array of daily tasks, offering family caregivers the chance to focus on other personal responsibilities or take a break to prevent burnout. Whether it’s for a few hours a day or a few days a week, respite care is the perfect solution for family caregivers who are feeling overwhelmed.

Beta-Cryptoxanthin

Corn contains beta-cryptoxanthin, a chemical similar to beta-carotene. When your loved one eats corn, beta-cryptoxanthin is converted into vitamin A, which has a direct connection to lung cancer prevention. By eating corn, your loved one consumes the necessary amount of beta-cryptoxanthin to potentially lower his or her risk of lung cancer.

Zeaxanthin

The antioxidant zeaxanthin, a yellow pigment found in corn, acts as a protective agent. When your loved one eats corn, this antioxidant protects him or her against macular degeneration and other eye diseases caused by aging. The folate in corn also provides some of the same benefits as zeaxanthin.

Home caregivers with expertise in nutrition can be a terrific asset for seniors who are adopting healthier lifestyle habits. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of home care service. Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at 647-970-3803 to learn more about our high-quality home care services.

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