Your aging relative’s doctor may have advised them to lower their sodium intake. Sodium is an element found in salt. So, what the doctor is really asking them to do is to reduce the salt in their diet. Most healthy adults should be aiming for 2,400 mg of sodium per day or less. However, people with high blood pressure shouldn’t eat more than 1,500 mg each day.

Sometimes when older adults are placed on a low salt diet, they find their new diet tasteless. If that’s the case for your aging relative, here are some tips for making food flavorful even without the salt.

Use Parsley as More Than Garnish

Parsley is much more than that green stuff on the side of a fancy restaurant plate. It can also be used to add flavor to dishes. It provides a fresh flavor and can be used with a wide variety of foods. To make the most of its flavor, don’t mince it. Parsley releases more flavor when it’s chewed.

Add Some Flavor to Soups

Soups, especially canned soups, are notoriously salty. To boost flavor without adding salt, try using a dash of lemon or lime juice. You can also try adding a splash of wine.

Make it Sweet and Spicy with Ginger

Ginger has a unique flavor that is both spicy and sweet. It’s great for flavoring seared proteins, including poultry, fish, and beef. It combines well with garlic, too.

Alter Recipes

Seniors can still enjoy old recipes that they love. Look for low-salt versions of ingredients, such as low-salt tomato products. Also, when the recipe calls for salt, try using a different spice. There are also salt-free seasoning mixes available at the grocery store. Or, look online for a recipe to make your own using the spices in your cupboard.

Try Red Wine Vinegar

The acidity of red wine vinegar makes it a great flavor enhancer. If the senior doesn’t like it the first time you use it, try purchasing a different brand. Red wine vinegars can vary quite a bit in taste, so keep trying until you find a brand they like.

If your loved one has difficulty preparing healthy, low-sodium meals for themselves, a home care services provider can help. Home care service aides can come to the older adult’s home to assist them with preparing meals, but that’s just one of the many things they can do. A home care sevice provider can also help with things like keeping the house clean, doing laundry, and reminding them to take medications. If the senior needs even more help, a caregiver can assist them with personal care, such as showering, grooming, and even eating.

Sources:  http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20856823,00.html#ginger-0

https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000760.htm

https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/guide/low-sodium-recipe-cooking-tips#1

If you or an aging loved one are in need of Home Care Services in Huntington 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!

• Author
• Recent Posts

Stephen Sternbach

CEO at Star Multi Care Services

With over 35 years of experience, Stephen Sternbach has been the Chairman of the Board of Directors, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Star Multi Care Services since 1987. After the sale of the New York and New Jersey operations of Star Multi Care Services, Sternbach brought the company private where he remains President and CEO of this 40-million dollar company. With Sternbach at the helm, Star Multi Care Services employs more than 650 employees, in six offices throughout Florida, Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York.

Latest posts by Stephen Sternbach (see all)

• Four Areas of Support that Surprise Caregivers - December 18, 2024
• The Importance of Consistent Wound Care and Dressing Changes - December 9, 2024
• Things That Can Make Your Senior Parent Feel Safer At Home - December 2, 2024