If your elderly loved one has recently been injured or had a surgery, it is important to help them heal as quickly as possible. The good news is that there are many foods and drinks that can make the healing process quicker. Whether you or elder care providers are taking care of your loved one during the healing process, these are the foods and drinks you want them to have.
Berries
Berries are filled with antioxidants and Vitamin C. They are nutritious, as well. Berries can help to repair the damage that has been done to your elderly loved one’s body. If your loved one recently had surgery, berries can help them to heal faster. You or the elder care provider should go to the store and get some of the following berries:
- Pomegranates
- Grapes
- Raspberries
- Blueberries
- Goji berries
- Strawberries
- Blackberries
If your elderly loved one has a couple servings of berries a day, it can boost the healing process.
Vegetables
There are many minerals and vitamins in vegetables that can make the healing process faster, as well. Some of the vegetables that you or the elder care provider should get for your loved one include the following:
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Cabbage
- Sweet bell peppers
- Potatoes
- Sweet potatoes
- Brussel sprouts
If your elderly loved one eats some of these vegetables every day, they can help to reduce fatigue. They can also help to build muscle which is beneficial, especially after an injury. Not only that, but if your elderly loved one is taking pain medications, they may be constipated. Vegetables can help to reduce constipation.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are another great option for speeding up the healing process. The body needs carbohydrates for energy after a surgery. In addition, the carbohydrates help to prevent muscles from deteriorating. Some of the whole grains you or an elder care provider can get for your loved one include the following:
- Wild rice
- Quinoa
- Steel-cut oats
- Whole wheat bread
If your elderly loved one eats some of these foods, along with the fruits and vegetables, they can heal faster.
Water
In addition to the foods that are mentioned above, your elderly loved one should be getting enough water every day, as well. Dehydration is far too common while recovering from surgery or after an injury. You can help your loved one to get more water by doing the following:
- Putting lemon or lime flavor in their water
- Having them drink coconut water
- Eating foods that have high water content
- Drinking teas
Water is good for your elderly loved one, whether they are recovering from an injury or surgery, or if it is just day-to-day self-care.
Conclusion
These are some of the foods and drinks your elderly loved one needs to heal faster after a surgery or an injury. Be sure your loved one has these things in their home to ensure a better recovery.
Sources
https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/abs1199
https://healthcare.utah.edu/the-scope/shows.php?shows=0_d0sr337w
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE IS CONSIDERING ELDER CARE IN RALEIGH, NC, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT SENIORS HELPING SENIORS TODAY. CALL (919) 761-5346.