6 Reasons Older Adults Should Quit Eating Red Meat

Eating red meat could put your senior loved one at risk of various health issues, including diabetes and infections. However, if your loved one eats well-balanced meals full of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, and other nutritious foods, he or she can live a healthier life. Here are some of the reasons your ageing loved one should give up red meat.

1. Prevent Heart Disease

Red meat contains a compound called carnitine, which is bad for the heart. During digestion, the microbes in the gastrointestinal tract turn carnitine into trimethylamine N-oxide. This can harden the arteries and lead to plaque buildup. As a result, your loved one will be at a higher risk of heart attack or strokes. By giving up red meat, your loved one can lower his or her risk of heart disease.

If your elderly loved one is living with a serious medical condition and needs help managing the tasks of daily living, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a North Coast home care company you can trust. Our care workers are available 24/7, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of our in-home care services. 

2. Reduce the Risk of Cancer

Eating red meat increases the risk of developing several types of cancers, including stomach, breast, and colorectal cancer. The compound that gives red meat its colour damages the lining of the colon. As an alternative to red meat, your loved one can consume poultry and fish.

3. Lower the Odds of Diabetes

Diabetes can be caused by eating large amounts of animal products like red meat. Eating red meat can cause your loved one to gain more weight, and obesity is one of the leading risk factors of diabetes. Even as little as three servings of red meat each week could increase your loved one’s risk of developing diabetes.

4. Decrease the Risk of E. Coli

Red meat contains the bacterium E. coli, which increases the likelihood of developing kidney disease and other health conditions. E. coli can also compromise a senior’s immune system. By eating red meat, the odds of experiencing dehydration, diarrhoea, and vomiting are greater.

5. Stave Off Alzheimer’s Disease

Your loved one’s memory may not work as well as it did in his or her younger years, and he or she may be at a higher risk of developing dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Since red meat is rich in iron, it could be dangerous for your loved one to eat. While iron is necessary for preventing anaemia and other health issues, too much iron accumulation in the brain could cause Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer’s can be challenging for seniors to manage without assistance, and it can be just as challenging for families who do not have experience in providing Alzheimer’s care. For trusted North Coast Alzheimer’s care, reach out to Home Care Assistance. Our proprietary Cognitive Therapeutics Method was designed to help seniors with Alzheimer’s and other memory-related conditions live happier and healthier lives.

6. Live Longer

Eating healthy proteins can boost your loved one’s physical, mental, and emotional health. However, consuming red meat could cause more stress and shorten his or her lifespan. To slow cognitive decline and prevent stress and anxiety, your loved one should eat legumes, nuts, poultry, and fish. Quitting red meat is a step toward living a longer, healthier, and happier life.

Some seniors need assistance with daily activities or in making healthier lifestyle choices. Whether your elderly loved one needs part-time assistance with basic household chores or you need a break from your caregiving duties, the North Coast respite care experts at Home Care Assistance are here to help. All of our respite care services are backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts. If you need a dedicated care worker for your ageing loved one, call us at (02) 6646 3527 today.