Health Benefits of Garlic for Aging Adults

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Why Your Senior Loved One Should Eat More Garlic in Portland, ME

Garlic has been prized among many different cultures for thousands of years because of its ability to enhance food flavor and boost overall health. In ancient Greece, Olympic hopefuls were encouraged to consume garlic because it was believed to boost athletic performance. Today, we know there are many health benefits garlic provides for seniors.

Inhibits Osteoarthritis

A group of researchers from England’s King’s College and the University of East Anglia evaluated garlic’s effects on bone density. Their article in BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders describes the findings of their long-term study of more than 1,000 women. The researchers discovered the women who regularly consumed garlic had a lower risk of developing osteoarthritis.

Fights Colds

The diallyl sulfide compound in garlic is known to fight bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. Washington State University scientists found that garlic was 100 times more effective at fighting the campylobacter bacterium than two of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics. This species of bacteria commonly causes gastrointestinal infections. A group of physicians from St. Joseph Family Medicine Residency in Indiana also discovered that adults experienced symptoms of the common cold less frequently when they regularly consumed garlic.

Every senior has different needs when aging in place. Some simply need occasional assistance with household chores, while others may be managing serious illnesses and require more extensive live-in care. Portland seniors can count on Align Home Care to provide the in-home care they need and deserve. 

Protects the Heart 

Scientists from the Emory University School of Medicine found that the diallyl trisulfide component in garlic protects the heart after a heart attack and during open-heart surgery. Another group of scientists published an article in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry showing the compounds in garlic protect people diagnosed with diabetes from developing cardiomyopathy.

Eating garlic is just one of the many ways aging adults can boost their health. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional homecare services. Align Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Lowers Cholesterol 

A team of researchers from Ankara University studied the effects of garlic compounds on people with elevated cholesterol levels and high blood pressure. At the end of four months, the volunteers who had regularly consumed garlic supplements showed significant improvements in their blood lipid profiles along with reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

It can be challenging to prepare healthy food for seniors, but a professional caregiver can help your loved one maintain a nutritious diet. In Portland, elder care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Align Home Care, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. Our caregivers encourage seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today at (207) 835-3605 to learn more about our customized care plans.

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