Healthy Eating Tips to Help Seniors Age Well

Healthy eating is essential at any age, but for seniors, it is critical to their health. Following healthy eating recommendations can help seniors maintain good health and stay active and independent. As we age, however, our bodies change and will require more of certain nutrients as our metabolism slows down. Likewise, here are healthy eating tips to help seniors age well:

• Familiarize yourself with the essential nutrients
  The nutrients we consume in foods help our bodies stay active and promote heart health. For seniors, knowing which nutrients are important can help them decide what kinds of foods to eat. Ideally, seniors should look for foods high in Vitamin D and fiber. They should avoid foods with empty calories and high salt content.
• Read the nutritional facts label
  During grocery shopping, caregivers can help seniors read the nutritional facts labels found in most foods and ingredients. Try to find items low in added sugars, sodium, and fat. Whole foods offer the most nutritional benefits and can be found around the grocery store in the produce, dairy, and meat sections.
• Plan meals accordingly
  Caregivers can help seniors plan meals ahead of time to save money at the store and ensure their nutritional needs are met. By knowing what to eat throughout the week, seniors can avoid unhealthy food choices out of convenience. It also prevents buying too much food that may spoil before they can eat it.

These are just a few healthy eating tips to help older adults age well and fight chronic conditions such as diabetes. By committing to a balanced diet and receiving care assistance at home, seniors can maintain good health and independence.