How Strawberries Help Reduce Bad Cholesterol

Strawberries aren’t just a sweet and delicious snack—they’re also packed with powerful nutrients that can support heart health. For seniors in dementia care Albuquerque, adding more strawberries to your diet could be a simple and tasty way to help lower bad cholesterol and keep your heart strong.

What Is Bad Cholesterol?

Cholesterol itself isn’t the enemy—your body actually needs it to function. But there are two types:

• LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) – This is the “bad” cholesterol that can build up in the arteries and increase the risk of heart disease.

• HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) – This is the “good” cholesterol that helps remove LDL from the bloodstream.

When LDL levels get too high, plaque can build up in the arteries, leading to heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular issues.

How Strawberries Help Lower LDL

Packed with Antioxidants

Strawberries contain polyphenols, which help reduce inflammation and prevent cholesterol from oxidizing—oxidation is what makes cholesterol more likely to stick to artery walls.

High in Soluble Fiber

Soluble fiber helps trap cholesterol in the digestive system and prevents it from being absorbed into the bloodstream. A cup of strawberries provides a good amount of this heart-healthy fiber.

Supports Healthy Blood Pressure

Strawberries are rich in potassium, which helps counteract the effects of sodium and keep blood pressure in check—a key factor in heart health.

Naturally Lowers Blood Sugar

High blood sugar can contribute to high cholesterol. The natural compounds in strawberries help regulate blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of diabetes-related cholesterol spikes.

Easy Ways to Add More Strawberries to Your Diet

You don’t have to eat plain strawberries every day to enjoy their benefits! Try incorporating them into your meals in fun and delicious ways:

• Blend into smoothies – Mix with yogurt and a handful of spinach for a heart-healthy drink.

• Top your morning oatmeal – A natural way to add sweetness without added sugar.

• Toss into a salad – Pairs perfectly with nuts, goat cheese, and balsamic dressing.

• Make a simple fruit parfait – Layer with Greek yogurt and granola for a satisfying snack.

A Heart-Healthy Addition to Memory Care

At MorningStar at North Ridge’s dementia care, nutrition is a priority, and heart-healthy foods like strawberries are often included in meals. Many residents enjoy fruit-based desserts, fresh smoothies, or simple snacks that support their overall well-being.

Small Changes, Big Heart Benefits

Lowering cholesterol doesn’t have to be complicated. By making small dietary adjustments—like adding more strawberries—you can take an easy and enjoyable step toward better heart health in dementia care.

The Signs of Parkinson’s Disease

The Medical News Today says too many people do not get diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and related neurodegenerative diseases until they are in the advanced stages; thereby limiting their prevention and treatment options. Medical professionals say although the disease has typically been categorized as primarily a movement disorder, new research finds executive function may be a major factor in determining its progression. Executive function is defined as a broad group of mental skills enabling people to complete tasks and interact with others. Disordered executive function impairs a person’s ability to organize and manage behavior.

According to the Parkinson’s Foundation the top 10 signs of the disease are: 

• Tremors 

• Small handwriting

• Loss of smell

• Trouble sleeping

• Trouble moving or walking

• Constipation

• A soft or low voice

• Masked face (looking depressed or mad)

• Dizziness or fainting

• Stooping or hunching over 

If you have any of these signs, you should see your healthcare provider. He or she may refer you to a neurologist, who specializes in the brain as well as other specialists. Experts say there is not a one-size-fits-all treatment, but rather your treatment will be tailored to address your own special needs and is usually a team effort. Based on your symptoms, treatment may include seeing a physical, speech or occupational therapist; medications and exercises. 

Research also suggests a strong link between those who experience what is known as “minor hallucinations” early on in the disease to a more rapid loss of executive function as well as cognitive decline in the later stages. Minor hallucinations involve the senses – sight, hearing, touch, smell, taste. These include seeing someone who is not there or seeing a face or object in something like a cloud or a carpet. It is important to let your doctor know if you are experiencing any hallucinations.    

MorningStar at North Ridge is entirely devoted to dementia care and is staffed by a team of caring individuals who through purposeful training and experience are dementia care specialists.  Our team understands the unique needs of each resident and delivers that care with compassion and thoughtfulness.  Additionally, every aspect of our home has been designed to accommodate those needs.   Please visit our website to learn more about MorningStar and all the amenities and services we provide to residents and their families alike.    

MorningStar at North Ridge brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to value, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please visit our website for more information about the finest dementia care in Albuquerque.

Source:medicalnewstoday.com/articles/minor-hallucinations-may-be-an-early-sign-of-parkinsons-related-cognitive-decline