What are the Favorite Foods of the Elderly?

As the physical functions of the elderly gradually decline, their gastrointestinal function also weakens to a certain extent. They tend to prefer soft, easy-to-digest foods with high nutritional value, which can help improve their immunity, absorb nutrients from their diet, and prevent diseases. There are many suitable foods that the elderly like to eat, such as sea cucumber, carrots, milk, and honey.

1. Sea Cucumber

In addition to containing protein, fat, sugar, inorganic salts, and various vitamins, sea cucumber also contains iodine, collagen fibers, polysaccharides, and chondroitin sulfate. It has the effects of nourishing the kidneys, lubricating the intestines, nourishing the blood, and nourishing the stomach. Regular consumption can also nourish yin and reduce fire, strengthen the kidneys and yang, improve intelligence, and supplement calcium.

2. Carrots

Carrots are rich in vitamin A, which has a prominent anticancer effect. Regular consumption of carrots can significantly reduce the incidence of lung cancer. Carrots also contain quercetin, kaempferol, potassium succinate, etc., which can increase coronary blood flow, lower blood lipids, and promote the synthesis of adrenaline. Therefore, they have certain curative effects on hypertension, heart disease, and stomach disease. At the same time, carrots also have the effects of nourishing the liver and improving eyesight, replenishing qi and strengthening the stomach, nourishing the kidneys and spleen, detoxifying, and lowering blood sugar. Long-term consumption can demonstrate its value as a "small ginseng".

3. Milk

Dairy products are not only a good source of calcium but also contain a large amount of protein, vitamins (including vitamin D), and minerals. These elements are key to fighting osteoporosis.

4. Honey

Honey is a nutritional treasure suitable for the physiological needs of the elderly. Foreign studies have shown that as people age, their utilization rate of glucose decreases significantly, while their utilization rate of fructose remains relatively stable. This indicates that fructose and fructose-containing products are the ideal carbohydrate foods for the elderly. They can provide energy and nutrients for the body while also providing the most suitable carbohydrate for saving protein, which may be the theoretical basis for many elderly people's preference for honey.