Skip the Prune Juice – Five Foods That Ease Your Dad’s Constipation

Senior Care in Holdingford MN: Skip the Prune Juice – Five Foods That Ease Your Dad’s Constipation

In the American Journal of Gastroenterology, it’s stated that as many as half of all seniors 80 or older deal with constipation. When a senior is constipated, they may not be as willing to eat. Abdominal pain may interfere with their routines. They may not want to get up and take a walk or enjoy seeing family and friends.

Constipation affects the elderly for many reasons. They may avoid a healthy meal for quick and easy takeout or packaged foods. They may not be drinking enough water. They may not get enough daily exercise. Some medications cause constipation.

If your dad is constipated, he may not want to discuss it. He should, however, as straining can cause health issues. While many doctors recommend prune juice, it’s not something many people enjoy. Here are five foods your dad can eat to help ease his constipation.

#1 – Artichokes

One steamed artichoke as more than 10 grams of fiber. As soluble fiber helps keep water into the waste that travels through the intestines and colon, a high-fiber diet is one way to help ease and prevent constipation.

#2 – Coffee

Coffee is one of those items that some recommend for constipation and others say to avoid it. Caffeine found in coffee helps get the bowels moving. The problem is that caffeine also dehydrates the body. It’s best if your dad has his coffee and then chases it with glasses of water throughout the day. Water is one of the best ways to ease constipation.

#3- Beans

Beans and lentils are excellent sources of fiber. They’re also very versatile. Keep a bowl of cooked lentils in your dad’s fridge. Toss the lentils with lemon, olive oil, garlic, raw veggies like red peppers, onions, and roasted asparagus, and salt and pepper to taste. When your dad’s in the mood for a snack, some of the lentil salad is a healthy, fiber-rich option.

#4 – Broccoli

In just one cup of raw or steamed broccoli, your dad will get more than 5 grams of fiber. If he likes it raw, that’s the best way to eat it. You can also saute it with a little olive oil, lemon, and thyme for a healthy side at dinner.

#5 – Raspberries

One cup of raspberries has 8 grams of fiber. Raspberries are easy to eat on a salad, as a snack, or on cereal. You can turn frozen raspberries into a refreshing drink, too.

Enlist the help of senior care professionals to make sure your dad is eating the right foods and drinking plenty of water each day. If his medications are an issue, talk to his doctor about other ways to ease his constipation.

Caregivers help with more than diet. They help with transportation, companionship, and household chores.

Sources:

http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/high-fiber-foods/art-20050948

If you or an aging loved-one are considering senior care in Holdingford, MN, please contact the caring staff at Alternative Senior Care today. Providing Home Care in Central Minnesota and Surrounding Communities. Call us Today (320) 352-3350.