Celiac disease affects approximately 1% of the United States population. Affecting more people over 65 years of age than others, when the body is sensitive to gluten, it is referred to as celiac disease. Could you use some pointers when it comes to mealtime for your loved one suffering from celiac disease? We put together a handful of suggestions so that you can both manage mealtimes and the disease more effectively.
Simplifying a Celiac Disease Diet
As much as possible, the following food groups should be adhered to if your aging loved one has celiac disease:
- Vegetables
- Fruits
- Legumes
- Nuts
- Meat
- Dairy
Vegetables and Grilled Salmon
A great alternative to beef is salmon steak. Bake it or grill it. There’s lots of vitamin D in there, which can be lacking in those with celiac disease. For folic acid, consider a side of steamed broccoli. To get a little more calcium into the diet of your loved one, and add some flavor, throw some cheese on there.
Baked Potato and Steak
Salads are great, as you will see below. But if your loved one just isn’t into them, go with a baked potato and steak as a gluten-free option. Vitamin B12 can be found in steak, which helps fight fatigue for older adults with celiac disease. Potatoes are high in fiber, particularly sweet potatoes. For people with celiac disease, this is important for regulated digestion.
Fresh Salad
Looking for something light? Be sure to skip the croutons but put lots of color in a salad. Add a little spinach for folic acid and iron. For strong bones, add some calcium with cheese. Other than that, stick to your loved one’s favorite protein (beef, chicken, eggs), and add seeds, nuts, and mixed fruits and vegetables.
Rice and Chicken
This is exactly what it sounds like. Easy. It’s nice for those who have celiac disease but aren’t ready to stop eating grains. Rice is gluten-free. For almost any senior, this is nice comfort food, even if they have a little trouble chewing. Important for fighting off infections is vitamin B6, which chicken is rich in.
Spinach Omelet
Lastly, but perfect for the first meal of the day, is a spinach omelet. If your loved one eats a gluten-free diet, this provides much-needed boosters with lots of nutrients – and it’s easy. In particular, because the intake of folic acid and iron are encouraged for people with celiac disease, this is a particularly healthy choice. Naturally, you’re going to need eggs and spinach. But feel free to add veggies like onions and even some cheese for a scrumptious dish.
Enjoy Nutritious, Delicious, and Special Diet-Appropriate Meals at Discovery Village At Palm Beach Gardens
Courtesy of our Sensations Dining program, mealtimes are exactly what your loved one needs them to be. Delicious, nutritious, and prepared with special requirements in mind – such as celiac disease. Our professional chef will prepare a meal fit for a king, frequently changing things up with international favorites.
Caring, specially trained team members serve up to three meals a day and provide extra special care for all residents in our community. Our setting includes a salon, theater, club rooms, and a fine dining atmosphere for the meals previously mentioned.
Call with any questions you may have or, better yet, schedule a tour. See for yourself – the living is easy at Discovery Village At Palm Beach Gardens
