Dealing with A Low-Sodium Diet
Salt is the most common cooking seasoning in the world. While moderate levels of salt are not a problem for most people, the sodium contained in salt can cause serious medical problems in a senior diet. Sodium is particularly harmful for those with high blood pressure, heart disease and other cardiovascular problems. Though it can be difficult to completely eliminate salt from a person’s diet, there are some simple things that can be done to reduce the intake of sodium.
Fresh Foods
Packaged foods are generally loaded with salt as it works both as a preservative and a flavor additive. Avoiding packaged foods and eating fresh foods is one of the easiest ways to cut sodium. As fresh foods have more flavor than frozen, canned or dried foods, less seasoning is needed to add flavor. Fresh foods are also healthier in other ways, including providing more vitamins, fiber and other nutrients than packaged foods.
Alternative Seasonings
It is a good idea to remove the salt shaker from the table when put on a low sodium diet. However, there are many herbs and spices that can be used in place of salt to add flavor to bland foods. A person who is working to reduce sodium should carefully read package labels as many packaged seasonings contain salt. There are also salt substitutes that do not contain sodium or contain only a small amount.
Professional Assistance
It can be difficult for a person to avoid packaged food and cook fresh foods for every meal, especially when cooking for only one or two people. One solution to this problem is to obtain meals from a professional who has had training in making meals for a restricted senior diet. Comfort Keepers in Santa Clarita can help seniors by preparing delicious meals that comply with the restrictions of a low sodium diet.
Comfort Keepers is the largest home care provider in Santa Clarita, with over a decade of experience with senior care. It is our mission to support families in need of senior care by offering services that range from part-time to long-term. Your aging senior deserves to stay in the comfort of their own home, and with our help, you can rest assured knowing that they are in safe hands. Our trained professionals would love to answer any questions you may have, so give us a call today. Visit our website to learn more about our wide range of services for both you and your senior.
Comfort Keepers
23900 Lyons Ave
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
661-287-4200
