Milk provides seniors with valuable nutrients in a convenient way. In addition to protein and calcium, milk offers several rich nutrients that make it a valuable part of a senior’s diet. Here are some ways drinking milk can benefit your elderly loved one.
1. Healthier Skin
Fine lines and wrinkles in the skin are a natural part of aging, but your loved one might be able to delay them with the right nutrients. Many of the most popular and effective cosmetic products contain vitamins such as riboflavin, vitamin B12, and vitamin A. In addition to using topical creams and ointments, your loved one can drink milk regularly to acquire the nutrients needed to keep skin firm, vibrant, and healthy.
2. Strong Bones
Milk contains two nutrients that are essential for bone health. The most important of these nutrients is calcium. This mineral can stave off osteoporosis and reduce the risk of bone fractures. Your loved one also needs a daily dose of vitamin D to properly absorb the calcium, but milk alone doesn’t contain this vitamin. Seniors who are at risk of developing osteoporosis should consider drinking milk fortified with vitamin D.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional in-home care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
3. Muscle Growth
Milk isn’t just for health enthusiasts. A single cup of milk contains between 5 and 9 grams of protein, depending on how it was pasteurized. Within moments of being consumed, the protein molecules in milk begin the process of repairing and rebuilding muscles. The protein can also provide long-term energy that helps older adults stay active throughout the day.
If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior care. Fair Oaks Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
4. Heartburn Relief
The occasional episode of acid reflux is generally not dangerous, but seniors who experience this condition regularly should speak with their doctors about long-term solutions. If your loved one has a sudden case of heartburn caused by spicy or greasy food, he or she can quickly take care of it with a cold glass of milk. Milk immediately coats the esophagus and neutralizes the acids that are damaging the soft tissue.
5. Fortified Teeth
Approximately 93 percent of aging adults have tooth decay. On average, 5 percent of seniors lose all their teeth because of decay. When people are younger, vitamin D is one of the basic building blocks that helps them develop strong teeth. Over time, milk fortified with vitamin D becomes important for continuing to strengthen the teeth and gums and stave off decay.
While regular dental hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing are essential, they often aren’t enough to fortify the teeth and reduce the risk of tooth and gum decay. Milk can accomplish this by preventing the long-term growth of bacteria on teeth and gums. The enzymes left over from bacteria, which are attached to the surfaces of teeth and gums, are consumed by the protein found in milk.
Some seniors have health conditions that make it difficult for them to get the complete nutrition they need on their own. Living with serious health conditions can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional live-in care. Fair Oaks seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more. If your loved one needs professional in-home care, Home Care Assistance is here to help. To hire a compassionate, dedicated caregiver, call us at (916) 485-4663 today.