Everyone craves a little something sweet sometimes, but it may be a challenge to find a pleasurable, yet still nourishing, snack. Luckily, there are a variety of simple, healthy foods that can offer a tasteboth you and your elderly loved one can enjoy. Try some of these sweet suggestions, brought to you by the staff at Home Care Assistance of Mississauga.
1. Chocolate Dipped Fruit
Fruit can be a refreshing and sweet snack on its own, but pairing it with chocolate can add to the sweetness. Chocolate dips comein a ready-to-use liquid form that hardens when it dries, or in a flaky, dry form that needs to be microwaved before dipping. Your loved one can dip whole strawberries or chunks of banana or pineapple into the chocolate, then let the shell harden before serving.
2. Smoothies
Smoothies can be a great choice for seniors who have trouble chewing harder foods. Simply mix plain yogurt, milk, and your loved one’s favorite fruits in a blender, then puree and serve cold. You may also want to check with your loved one’s doctor to see if it’s okay to add a bit of protein powder for an extra nutritional kick.
3. Peanut Butter and Jelly
With the perfect balance of good taste, comfort, and nutritional value, this traditional sandwich is a classic for a reason. Grab some whole wheat bread, natural peanut butter, and your loved one’s favorite flavor of jelly and this simple and sweet treat is ready. A thinly sliced banana in the sandwich can also be a healthy addition.
4. All Natural Freezer Pops
Your loved one can make his or her own fruit pops with fresh juice and a mold, or buy them already prepared in the freezer section of the local grocery store. For the best health benefits in store bought pops, suggest those with 100 percent fruit. To offer variety in your loved one’s snack choices, puree watermelon chunks with lime juiceor peach with apple juice.
As long as your loved one consumes sweets in moderation and pairs them with healthy foods, these snacks can be great for adding some variety to his or her diet. However, there may be other dietary challenges your loved one faces. If you are unsure how to address these challenges, Home Care Assistance employs part-time caregivers in Mississauga who can assist with grocery shopping and preparing healthy meals for your loved one, making sure a balanced diet is maintained. For more information, call one of our friendly Care Managers at 905-337-1200 and schedule a complimentary in-home consultation.