A Handy Guide and Recipe from Your Friends at Wesley Enhanced Living

The holidays are full of fun, family, and food. Many favorite dishes are cooked and enjoyed during this season. Often the recipes we love to eat may not be as healthy as they could be because they are laden with carbs, fat, and salt. While many of these yummy meals may tantalize your palate, you can lighten things up with food that is colorful and better for your health.

Give your taste buds something to cheer about by adding nutrient-rich foods to your diet. The staff at Wesley Enhanced Living understands the nutritional needs of our seniors. Our dietary team works hard to support your health with meals that give your body what it needs. 

5 Superfoods to Enjoy in Your Holiday Meals…and Every Day!

Make some changes to your diet, starting this holiday season by adding nutritious foods to your menus. It is much simpler than you think and can give you the vitamins and minerals your body needs to fight off illnesses. Here are five superfoods to get you started:

  1. Sweet Potatoes: This root vegetable is loaded with antioxidants and vitamins such as A and C, which are good sources of anti-inflammatory nutrients.
  2. Blueberries: Think of this small berry as a powerhouse of nutrients that can help your memory and brain health. They are also high in fiber.
  3. Oatmeal: Use this superfood to get your daily dose of fiber and help lower your cholesterol. It is also low in fat and high in protein.
  4. Broccoli: This tasty vegetable has a combination of fiber and antioxidants, as well as vitamins A, C, B9, and K. It also benefits your immune system, bones, and tissues.
  5. Dark Chocolate: Health benefits are not confined within your vegetables. Some are hidden in this delectable treat! You can get a dose of antioxidants and help your immune system when you choose a minimum of 70% cocoa.

An Easy, Tasty Recipe Packed with Superfoods

At Wesley Enhanced Living, we want to empower you to take charge of your health. Here is an easy side dish from our registered dietitian, that is full of superfoods to keep you going during the busiest time of year:

Pomegranate Glazed Carrots (with walnuts)
Recipe Courtesy of California Walnuts

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup pomegranate juice
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 pound carrots, peeled, cut into 1-inch diagonal slices
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. While the oven is heating, place the pomegranate juice in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook for 15 minutes or until liquid is reduced to 1/4 cup; stir in honey.
3. Once oven is heated, place carrots, oil, salt, and pepper on a small baking sheet; toss well to coat. Bake for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove carrots from oven and drizzle glaze over carrots, stirring to coat. Bake for 10 more minutes, stirring once or twice.
5. Stir in walnuts and cranberries and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until carrots are nicely glazed and reach desired tenderness.
6. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with thyme. 

Make Ahead Tip: Glaze mixture can be prepared several days ahead and stored tightly covered in a refrigerator.

NOTE: Recipe may be doubled as needed.

Protect Your Health During the Holidays 

Enjoy new recipes that not only taste good but are right for you. When you move to a Wesley Enhanced Living community, you can experience all that life has to offer, including menus designed with senior health and nutrition in mind. We offer many living options including independent living, personal care, and rehabilitation and skilled nursing. Come visit us to see what you could be a part of in your golden years. 

Wesley Enhanced Living provides high-quality senior retirement communities for you or your loved ones.  Contact one of our Philadelphia area locations and find out why our seniors love where they live. Our staff is happy to discuss your elder’s needs or your own, give you a tour and inform you of our range of services.