Nutrition Tips for the Elderly
Healthy living for seniors starts with nutrition, and the month of March which is National Nutrition Month is the right time to educate yourself, as a caregiver or older adult on how seniors can maintain a healthy diet.
Studies show that healthy eating into your later years can prevent or reduce the likelihood of many diseases and illnesses that are relatively common in older adulthood, including osteoporosis, high blood pressure, heart disease and some forms of cancer. It’s easy for the elderly to neglect their diets as they age; they may have a reduced appetite, require less energy from food, or find they no longer get the same enjoyment from eating that they did when they were younger. Choosing a diet rich in nutrients, but low in empty calories can provide seniors with the vitamins and nutrients they require on a daily basis to keep them disease free, healthy and active.
A senior’s diet should consist of:
• Lots of fruits and vegetables (fresh, canned and frozen)
• Whole grains
• Low fat or fat-free dairy products (including milk, yogurt, cheese)
• Lean sources of protein, like lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs and nuts
Meal planning for seniors should follow guidelines set by the USDA’s Food Guide Pyramid to focus on proper nutrition, although senior food choices can still reflect the foods that they enjoy. Meals for seniors can be both nutritious and delicious.
Sources: http://nihseniorhealth.gov/eatingwellasyougetolder/howtoeatwell/01.html
http://fnic.nal.usda.gov/nal_display/index.php?info_center=4&tax_level=2&tax_subject=256&topic_id=1348
Home Care Baton Rouge, Hammond serving the elderly with needed home care companionship. Call us at 225.819.8338.
