Senior Care: Your mom’s tastes are changing.
One difference you’ve noticed is that your mom doesn’t like meat. It’s not uncommon to find your mom disliking foods she used to enjoy. The sense of smell decreases with age. Plus, the side effects of medications and conditions like gum disease and dry mouth can impact how foods taste. It’s okay if your mom wants to stop eating meat, but she needs to make sure she’s getting enough protein. A senior care services provider can help with this.
The current recommended protein intake is 0.8 grams per 2.2 pounds of body weight each day. If your mom weighs 150 pounds, she’d need to consume around 55 grams of protein daily.
Some experts believe this should be increased to 1.2 to 2.0 grams. That would increase her daily intake to 82 to 136 grams. Your mom may not be consuming enough protein currently, and her changing tastes need to ensure she doesn’t worsen this situation.
The Value of Protein
Protein is an essential component in managing your body’s blood sugar levels. They make you feel fuller, which helps with weight management. Protein contains amino acids that are absorbed into cells and used in many ways.
These amino acids help the cells absorb calcium, which supports bone health. A diet that contains the proper amount of protein also aids muscle growth and the immune system.
What Foods Are High Protein?
What foods should your mom eat to make up for the protein she’s not getting from meat? Here are a few of the best options.
1. Chick Peas
Chickpeas are a versatile form of protein. One cup of cooked chickpeas contains 39 grams of protein. Saute them in some olive oil and toss with fresh garlic, parsley, and lemon juice for a quick and easy salad your mom can eat for snacks and during meals.
2. Eggs
If she doesn’t like meat, eggs are a good alternative. A large egg contains 6 grams of protein. They’re versatile and can be added to salads, turned into omelets, or boiled and mashed onto slices of whole-grain toast.
3. Lentils
One cup of cooked lentils contains 18 grams of protein. They’re one of the best options to ensure your mom eats enough protein. She could make lentil patties for sandwiches or keep lentil soup on hand.
4. Yogurt
How about adding yogurt to your mom’s breakfast smoothie? Depending on the brand, one cup of plain, unsweetened yogurt has around 12 grams of protein. If she switches to Greek yogurt, the protein increases to 13 grams.
Support your mom as she ages by making sure senior home care services are available. If she finds it difficult to cook meals, shop independently, or keep up with light housework, hire caregivers to help her.
With senior home care aides helping her, your visits can focus on fun outings and plenty of time to sit and talk. Call a home care agency to learn more.
For more information about hiring Senior Care in San Diego, CA, call the friendly caregivers at La Jolla Nurses Homecare who can help your aging parents remain in their own homes, at 858-454-9339. We are a home care agency providing quality and affordable senior care in La Jolla, CA, and the surrounding communities.
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4924200/
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