We all want to live long and healthy lives. One key way we can achieve this is by paying close attention to what we eat. Eating a nutritious, well-balanced diet can help seniors maintain a healthy weight, reduce their risk of chronic diseases, and improve their overall quality of life.
Whether you’re looking to make small changes to your diet or completely overhaul your eating habits, these five healthy eating tips are sure to help you on your journey to better health. Always speak to a medical professional before making changes to your diet.
Senior Nutrition Tips
When it comes to nutritional requirements, older adults have several unique needs. The recommendations here include tips to not only help you reduce your risk of developing a chronic condition like heart disease, but also to increase your stamina and keep you in your best health.
#1: Stay Hydrated
Did you know that older adults have a lowered thirst response? This can lead to dry mouth, fatigue and even dehydration in severe cases.
One of the best ways to stay healthy as you age is to ensure you’re consuming enough fluids throughout the day. You should also try to incorporate foods with a high water content into your diet. Fruits and vegetables like watermelon, celery and strawberries can all help keep you hydrated.
#2: Eat Nutrient-Dense Foods
Nutrient-dense foods are foods that contain high amounts of essential vitamins and minerals while being relatively low in calories. These powerhouse foods help you meet your dietary requirements while limiting your saturated fat, sugar and sodium intake.
#3: Choose Fruits and Vegetables You Enjoy
You know you need to eat more nutritious foods, but what if you struggle to find options you like to eat? That’s okay! Just add more fruits and vegetables that you do enjoy into your diet.
If you’re looking for more variety and new options to try, consider shopping for fruits and vegetables that are in-season. While year-round availability for most fruits and vegetables is great, items that are fresh and in-season will often be of a better quality, resulting in more robust flavor and pleasant texture.
#4: Get Enough Calcium
Calcium is an essential mineral for all adults, but especially seniors. Many older adults are deficient in calcium as they age due to inadequate consumption and diminished absorption.
To ensure you’re getting enough calcium in your diet, try to work more foods that are naturally high in calcium into your diet. These include options such as dairy products like milk and yogurt. Non-dairy options high in calcium include fortified cereals and certain vegetables like kale and turnip greens.
#5: Limit Processed Foods
“Empty calories” like those sugary sodas, sweet desserts and other highly processed foods can increase your risk of health conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. In a shorter term, they can leave you hungry and unsatisfied between meals.
While it’s okay to incorporate these treats into your diet once in a while, they should be consumed sparingly. Choose instead to base your diet around satisfying, nutritionally dense whole foods.
Prioritize Your Health at Friendship Village of Bloomington
At Friendship Village of Bloomington, it’s easier to lead a healthier” and more active” lifestyle. Our community features exemplary dining and wellness options to help you continue living your life to the fullest.
See for yourself what makes us unique. Contact us to schedule a tour or to get answers to any questions you may have about senior living. Our knowledgeable team will be happy to help you!
