Elder Care in Purcellville VA

Corn is a favorite vegetable during the summer months when it is in season and a great vegetable to serve year-round because of its low price and availability in frozen and canned form. Corn is easy to prepare and it has a mildly sweet flavor that makes it appealing to people of all ages. However, can corn be part of an elderly adult’s healthy diet? Many rumors about corn have been circulating recently about corn not being healthy due to its calories, sugar content, and starchiness, but is there truth to these rumors? Or, is a corn, in fact, a wonderful addition to your loved one’s healthy diet? Read on to find out more about the nutritional value of corn for your elderly loved one.

Does corn have nutritional value?
Absolutely! While corn is higher in calories and sugar than many other green veggies, it is still quite nutrient dense. Corn is an excellent source of insoluble fiber which is essential for healthy digestion. In addition, corn contains B vitamins, vitamin C, magnesium, and potassium. Surprisingly, corn is also an excellent non-meat source of both protein and iron. All of these nutrients are essential for elderly adults to consume each and every day and eating a serving of corn can be a great way for them to do so.

Does Corn Have Negative Aspects?
Corn is relatively high in calories compared with other vegetables and it does contain sugars and starches. If you serve your loved one a properly measured serving of corn (which is about a half cup or 1 ear), you can be sure that they will not get an excessive amount of calories, sugar, or starch. If your loved one suffers from type 2 diabetes and has a specific nutrition plan that they must follow every day, it is especially important to measure serving sizes for them and to be sure that they do not get too much sugar or starch in a day.

What are some healthy ways to serve corn?
Corn can be a great ingredient to include in many healthy dishes. Here are just a few ideas:
Use corn to make a healthy salsa by combing it with chopped tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, minced garlic, cilantro, and lime juice. This salsa is delicious on top of grilled chicken breasts or tilapia filets.

Add cold corn to a green salad for an extra crunch and some extra sweetness.
Add corn to chili or other hot soups for extra heartiness.

Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/07/26/corn-health-myths-nutrition_n_5591977.html

If you or an aging loved one are considering elder care in Purcellville, VA please contact the caring staff at Assisting Hands today. (703) 982-0050.