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What are Microminerals and Why do Elderly Adults Need Them in Their Diet?

Elderly Care in Floral Park NY

Microminerals are a class of minerals that elderly adults (and all people) need in their diet but in smaller amounts.  Minerals such as calcium, iron, and potassium are all minerals that we need in large amounts to maintain good health and nutrition.  But, for minerals such as zinc, chromium, copper, selenium, and iodine, a little bit (just a few micrograms) goes a long way.  Even though our bodies only require small amounts of the microminerals, they are still essential to good health and nutrition and elderly adults should strive to get them into their diet each and every day.  Here is a list of some essential microminerals, what they do, and where they can be found.

Zinc

Zinc is an essential nutrient for maintaining good immune system health, which is very important for elderly adults who have weakened immune systems.  It also helps to promote wound healing.  Zinc can be found in meats, fish, and poultry.  It is also found in whole grain foods, vegetables like spinach and potatoes, beans, nuts, and milk – all foods that are part of a healthy diet for their many health benefits!

Chromium

Chromium helps to regulate blood sugar levels and promote a healthy metabolism.  Unfortunately, the processing of many foods decreases the chromium content in them, but there are many foods that elderly adults can eat to get a good serving of chromium.  Examples include liver, whole grains, nuts, and some cheeses.

Copper

Elderly adults need only a tiny amount of copper each day, but it is an essential nutrient that helps to promote a healthy metabolism and helps organs function properly.  It can also prevent anemia, which is very important for elderly adults.  Copper can be found in nuts, seeds, whole grains, dark chocolate, and even drinking water.

Selenium

Selenium has many health benefits for elderly adults.  It is an antioxidant and it helps elderly adults to maintain healthy skin.  Selenium can be found in meats, seafood (especially salmon), and whole grains.  Brazil nuts are also an excellent source of selenium and they are a great healthy snack!

Iodine

Iodine promotes thyroid health and a good metabolism.  Most people get all of the iodine they need from iodized salt.  But, elderly adults who have cut back on salt in order to eat a more heart healthy diet, iodine can be dairy food, seafood, and bread.

If you or an aging loved one are in need of elderly care services in Floral Park, NY or the surrounding areas, contact the caring professionals at Star Multi Care Services today at (631)956-8835. We are the Right Choice for Home Health Care Services!

 

Source: http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/tc/minerals-their-functions-and-sources-topic-overview

Stephen Sternbach

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