Summer is all about being outside and enjoying beautiful weather. Part of that involves cooking out and eating delicious summer foods. That’s only part of why it’s a good idea to have some watermelon on hand. If your senior is interested in eating healthier and making sure that what she eats is high in nutritional value, she can’t go wrong with watermelon.
Get it at its Best
Part of eating healthy involves eating fruits and vegetables more often. They’re both at their best when they’re at their peak. Watermelon is a summer staple, so it’s easy to access all summer long. Not only is it freshest in the summer, but watermelon is also at it’s most cost-effective in the summer. Add to that the bigger nutrient boost when the fruit is at its peak and there is no better time to grab plenty of watermelon to have on hand.
Watermelon Is Super Hydrating
One reason that watermelon is so refreshing on hot summer days is that it’s made of 92 percent pure water. If your elderly family member hates drinking plain water, a few slices of watermelon are tasty and they give her a hydration boost. It’s also full of potassium, which is one of the nutrients that gets flushed out when your senior sweats. Watermelon can help her to balance her electrolytes after sweating.
It’s a Great Source of Lycopene
Lycopene is vital for eye health and for keeping your senior’s immune system as strong as possible. It’s what gives watermelon its distinctive color, too. Lycopene is also found in tomatoes, which are another great summer fruit choice. Because lycopene is an antioxidant, it helps to repair cell damage.
It’s Also High in Vitamin A
Vitamin A is a key nutrient for keeping skin, eyes, and teeth healthy. If your elderly family member isn’t getting plenty of vitamin A in other ways, watermelon can help. Because vitamin A is fat-soluble, it’s a good idea to pair healthy fats with the watermelon. That might include a serving of Greek yogurt or a piece of cheese.
Watermelon is just one part of a healthy diet for your senior. Talk to her doctor about what other nutrients she needs. If grocery shopping and meal preparation have become too difficult for her, elderly care providers can be a huge help. They can make it easy for your senior to have access to all the nutritious options she needs to stay healthy.
if you or an aging loved one is considering elderly care in Castle Pines, CO, please contact the caring staff at SYNERGY HomeCare today at 303-953-9924.
