7 Nutritious Foods for Older Adults with Celiac Disease

7 Healthy Foods to Serve Aging Adults Living with Celiac Disease

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Celiac disease is mostly associated with children and young adults, but seniors are being diagnosed with celiac disease more frequently. Since there’s no medication that can treat this disease, your elderly loved one will need to follow a healthy, gluten-free diet to heal the small intestines and stop inflammation. Here are some of the foods seniors with celiac disease should eat.

1. Whole Grains

Your loved one should only eat whole grains made with wheat-based ingredients. Ready-to-eat gluten-free grains provide the healthy carbohydrates, fiber, and various minerals the body needs to function normally and prevent damage to the small intestines over time. Some of the best whole grains for seniors to eat are wheat-based cereals and waffles, oats, wild and brown rice, and corn.

A healthy diet can promote overall quality of life. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.

2. Fruits

These foods are naturally gluten-free and should be incorporated into your loved one’s daily diet. Fruits provide the essential fiber, nutrients, and antioxidants that support immune function in seniors with celiac disease. Your loved one can eat all fresh fruits in addition to all frozen fruits that are packaged with no additives. Berries are the best fruits for seniors with celiac disease.

3. Beans & Nuts

Anti-inflammatory foods such as beans and nuts can boost overall immune function in seniors. These foods are a good source of the protein, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids that fight against allergies and intolerance associated with celiac disease. Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, hemp seeds, and sunflower seeds are the best choices for your loved one to eat. He or she can also choose beans that are gluten-free.

If your loved one needs help preparing healthy meals and sticking to a gluten-free diet, a home caregiver can help. For many seniors in Columbia, MD, in-home care is an essential component of aging in place safely and comfortably. However, it’s important for them to have caregivers they can trust and rely on. At Assisting Hands Home Care, we extensively screen all of our caregivers and only hire those who have experience in the senior home care industry. Our strict requirements ensure seniors can remain in the comfort of home with a reduced risk of injury or serious illness.

4. Vegetables

Living with celiac disease could lead to various nutrient deficiencies, but eating vegetables provides the body with several important nutrients. Vegetables are considered healing foods that repair the digestive system and correct nutrient deficiencies. The best types of gluten-free vegetables for seniors with celiac disease to eat are:

  • Broccoli
  • Cucumbers
  • Lettuce
  • Peppers
  • Carrots

5. Poultry

Pasture-raised poultry is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids and protein that fights against malnutrition. Eating low-calorie poultry can boost your loved one’s energy levels and make working out easier. Working out can help your loved one stay physically fit and reduce the risk of bacterial or viral infections and other issues caused by an impaired immune system.

6. Seafood

Salmon, tuna, and mackerel should be included in your loved one’s weekly meals. Some seafood contains omega-3 fatty acids that fight against inflammation. The vitamins in these types of seafood regulate the immune system, protect against infections, and keep tissues in the small intestines and respiratory system healthy.

7. Gluten-Free Beverages

The vitamins and folic acid in these beverages may alleviate some of the symptoms associated with celiac disease. Always check the labels, because gluten can be hidden in many types of beverages. The best gluten-free beverages to drink when living with celiac disease are:

  • Fresh juices
  • Milk
  • Some cocoa powders
  • Cordials
  • Tea

Professionally trained caregivers can cook nutritious meals, go grocery shopping, and assist with a wide variety of daily tasks. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality home care. Columbia families trust Assisting Hands Home Care to help their elderly loved ones age in place safely and comfortably. Reach out to one of our dedicated Care Managers today at 443-233-1245 to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.