Healthy living is key to having the best nutrition. Besides eating right, it also includes making informed decisions about diet and exercise. That's why seniors should incorporate a healthy lifestyle to keep energetic and healthy throughout the year. Our article explains the importance of nutrition and provides nutrition tips for seniors.

So, what is nutrition?

Nutrition means eating a balanced diet that gives the body the necessary nutrients. A nutrient is a substance our bodies need to function and grow like carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and water.

Why is nutrition important?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nutrition plays a vital role in health and development, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Every age group needs good nutrition, and that is certain. It gives you energy and can help manage your weight. Furthermore, it may help prevent some diseases, such as osteoporosis, high blood pressure, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. 

Healthy Eating Tips for Seniors

For more energy and prevention of health issues, try these healthy eating tips. Don't forget to share this with your elderly neighbors!

1.Color Your Lifestyle With Healthy Foods

For optimal nutrition, you should eat a variety of foods. The best diet for seniors includes colorful foods. So, choose bright, colorful foods such as the following:

• Fiber-rich grain products (brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, and oatmeal)
• Fruits and vegetables that are orange, red, green, and purple.
• Meat, seafood, eggs, and beans are good sources of lean protein
• Dairy products with low fat (milk and alternatives)
• Green tea contains disease-preventing antioxidants.

In some cases, you also need to eat plant-based and salt-free foods. Look for food with Vitamin D, which is crucial as we age. 

2. Be Sure to Stay Hydrated

Water is a vital nutrient. Make sure you drink small amounts of fluids regularly to avoid dehydration. The best liquids to drink are tea, juice, and water. Limit sugar- and salt-containing fluids unless your doctor advises you otherwise. Whether or not you feel thirsty, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. 

3. Consider Supplements

Avoiding some foods can make it challenging to get the nutrients you need. Check with your physician if you should take calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, or vitamin B-12 supplements. In general, older Americans tend to consume enough of these specific vitamins poorly. However, some supplements can cause certain medications to be ineffective. So, before taking a new supplement or medication, ask your doctor about potential side effects.

4. Spice up Your Meals With Herbs and Spices

Instead of seasoning, make your food more flavorful by using fresh herbs and spices instead of salt. Tasty and healthy choices are turmeric, sage, basil, and cayenne pepper.

5. Follow the Recommended Serving Size

To maintain a healthy weight, follow the serving size recommendations. If you need advice tailored to you personally, ask your doctor.

6. Plan Your Meals

Meal planning can help you eat healthily and save money. By planning your meals for the week, you can avoid unhealthy choices based on convenience. As a result, you won't buy too much food that will spoil before consuming it. Prepare a week's worth of meals and freeze them until you need them.

7. Consult Your Doctor About Your Health Needs

Discuss how best to apply the dietary guidelines to limit saturated fats, added salt, and added sugars with your doctor. People who restrict their food intake and eat too little nutrient and calorie intake for their age may be at risk for malnutrition.

Gentle Reminder

You can seek help choosing a healthy diet from a family member or your healthcare provider. Enjoy years of healthy aging with these nutritional tips!

Ocana Medical Care, located in Tampa, FL, aims to bring you as much information as possible to keep you healthy. We're in this together. #ocanacares