A care provider's grocery list:
Visiting Angels knows that having access to healthy food is essential for clients' recovery and continued wellness. Many of the recommended items need to be replenished regularly. It helps clients and their families, who already have a lot of outside responsibilities, to be able to count on Visiting Angels to assist in securing and replenishing these essentials.
Foods rich in protein include: egg whites, chicken, turkey, tofu, yogurt, cheese and an assortment of nuts.
Foods rich in vitamin A include: cantaloupe, carrots, kale, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, salmon, butter, king mackerel and hard boiled eggs.
Foods rich in vitamin C include: kiwi, red peppers, oranges, strawberries, cauliflower, collard greens and tomatoes.
Foods that contain zinc include: mushrooms, beef, spinach, nuts, beans, dark chocolate, pork and chicken.
Important fats for healing include: meats, cooking oils and dairy products.
Carbohydrates include: whole grain pasta, brown rice, cereal and bread.
Habits that aid healing:
While clients may feel enthusiastic about getting their appetites back, they are better served to eat small portions throughout the day than to eat three large meals. This way they can absorb the benefits of the healthy food without feeling bogged down or uncomfortable. For many clients, this may be a most realistic option, as they may experience a loss of appetite or be inclined to feel full quickly as they recover.
Our caregivers know it's also a good idea to try and ensure that clients eat a variety of nutritious foods. This approach is about rebuilding beneficial habits, which can continue to benefit clients after they've recovered.
Hydration:
Dehydration can cause fatigue and weakness. Visiting Angels knows it's important to make sure that clients are getting plenty of fluids as they recover. Popsicles, broth and some fruits can help to enliven the hydration regiment.
What we eat and drink significantly impacts our bodies. Visiting Angels knows it's important to choose wisely, especially when the body is in recovery mode. Greek physician Hippocrates, known as the father of medicine, famously remarked: "Leave your drugs in the chemist's pot if you can cure the patient with food."
