Does your elderly loved one like to put salt on practically all of their food? If this is the case, it is important that they change this habit. Putting salt on food too often can lead to heart issues and many other health issues, as well. There are some tips that can help your elderly loved one to stop putting salt on all of their food. If you and caregivers use these tips with your elderly loved one, it can help them to change this habit.
Don’t Have Salt in the House
One of the tips for helping your elderly loved one to stop putting salt on all of their food is not to have salt in their house. This can be a tough change to make and it can take some time to get used to. However, if your elderly loved one just doesn’t keep salt in their house, they won’t be able to use it. This may seem like a drastic change. However, if your elderly loved one won’t quit using salt, this may be the only option to help them. Of course, there are other seasonings that can be used to replace the salt. This way, your elderly loved one can still add flavor to their food.
Replace the Salt
As mentioned, there are other things that can be used to replace the salt. There are numerous herbs and spices that can be used. You or caregivers can even help your elderly loved one to make spice and herb blends. The blends will vary depending on the flavors that your elderly loved one wants to have on their food. You and your elderly loved one can even experiment with different herbs and spices until they find blends that they like the most.
Adding Fresh Herbs to Foods
Another option for a salt replacement is to add fresh herbs to foods. There are various dishes that taste much better with fresh herbs. Some of these dishes include chicken, soups, and stir-fry. Your elderly loved one might like adding oregano, thyme, basil, or mint to their foods. Just like with the spice and herb blends, your elderly loved one might need to experiment until they find fresh herbs that they really like.
Conclusion
If your elderly loved one is used to adding salt to all or even most of their food, it can be a difficult thing to stop doing. However, for your elderly loved one’s health, it is very important that they do so. The above-mentioned tips can help your elderly loved one to stop putting salt on all of their food. If you and the caregivers help to implement these tips, you will essentially be helping your elderly loved to live a healthier life.
Sources
https://www.kidney.org/newsletter/top-10-tips-reducing-salt-your-diet
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/salt-alternatives