RECEPTION

At Glenvale Villas, we are always looking to keep our residents as healthy as possible. The better the health, the less chance of illness, and the better our lifestyles are. We have more energy, more involvement and a happier disposition.

So what are some of the super foods that can help us as we age?

Bananas.

Yes, the humble banana is not just a school snack or half of the essential ingredients for a banana split.

Bananas are one of nature’s richest sources of potassium and are also crammed with vitamins, minerals and slow release, fat-free carbohydrates.

Perfect for a diet high in potassium, which is a must for the young at heart as it helps to keep blood pressure normal.

Potassium is needed for muscles to contract, the transmission of nerve impulses and the proper functioning of your body’s heart and kidneys. Research also suggests that a diet high in potassium may reduce the risk of high blood pressure and stroke.

So it’s all good.

Once past 50 years, the requirement for vitamin B6 increases by about 20%, as aging is associated with less efficient absorption and processing of some essential nutrients. With vitamin B6 being important for a healthy immune system and a healthy cardiovascular system, you can see the value of high B6 foods. One medium banana will provide a quarter of your daily needs and helps meet the extra B6 needs during the senior years.

Once past your 70th birthday, calcium requirements also increase by 300mg a day to help prevent brittle bones (osteoporosis) in both men and women.

With tooth loss, gum disease or poorly fitting dentures, all of which are more likely as we age, chewing can become difficult. No surprise that the soft-eating properties of the ripe banana make them the ideal fruit in this situation.

There is now growing research showing that fruit, and the banana in particular, is assisting the immune function of the body. Not only does the banana have antioxidants, it also sees to boost the natural antioxidant levels in the body.