Good Nutrition for Seniors

As we age certain obstacles arise which sometimes affect the way we eat, and with certain health and emotional issues, and not quite the same zest for life, we are inclined to neglect the importance of healthy nutrition. The metabolism starts to slow down at the age of forty, and unwanted and unhealthy weight gain can be experienced.

As we age so does the activity level drop, that along with a less functional metabolism, calories are not burned as efficiently as in earlier years.

On the other hand one`s appetite and taste as well as sense of smell diminishes as the years follow and one could experience loss of appetite.

One creates less saliva and stomach acid due to changes in the digestive system, which makes it more difficult for the body to process certain minerals and vitamins which are necessary for mental health and circulation.

Eating well in your Senior Years should be a priority :

One should eat fresh fruit and vegetables, some of which should be eaten raw to provide you with vitamins and minerals, fibre and enzymes to aid digestion.

A source of good carbohydrates like whole wheat bread, brown rice and rolled oats should be consumed as opposed to refined white bread and rice etc.

When vegetables are steamed or lightly sauted it is the best way to preserve the nutrients.

Protein should be lean, which includes turkey or chicken without the skin, grilled or baked fish, eggs, beans, peas, nuts and tofu. Red meats should be eaten in moderation as they contain saturated fat, and salty meats such as bacon should be avoided as much as possible.

We should remember that healthy eating need not be rigid, we all go off course sometimes, and one does not have to be perfect, but moderation and balance is the key. Even if you work slowly towards setting yourself up for a successful way of eating, rather than making a dramatic change all at once. Plan ahead, and educate yourself on how to eat and embark on the journey to preventing illnesses such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, alzheimers`s and watch how your energy levels improve and how much better you will feel for it. It certainly is worth the effort, and if you adopt the right attitude towards good eating patterns, it can become a rather interesting and exciting project.

No matter what your age, you can gradually make small changes to your diet and work towards reaping long term rewards. Allow yourself to have the foods you enjoy, with the occasional off-course treat.

Meals on Wheels provide for seniors who do not have the resources to cook for themselves.