The kind of food you eat in old age will determine whether you will enjoy or detest being old. Fortunately, the foods you need are cheap and easily accessible; hence you can eat healthy on a budget.
So, what are some healthy diet for senior citizens? This article will guide you through simple and delicious menu options for the elderly.
1. Foods rich in calcium, fiber and vitamin D
As you age, your immunity declines. That’s why you start having problems with your bones and the digestive system. Hence, a diet chart for senior citizens must have lots of minerals, fiber, and vitamins.
Fiber is excellent for your tummy, for it prevents constipation. It would help if you had vitamin D to reduce the risk of getting skin cancer. Thus, remember to bask under the sun for a few minutes each day.
If the sun is not your coffee cup, you can ask your doctor to prescribe some supplements. Also, take calcium to boost your bones and teeth. Foods like milk, bone soup, and chicken are rich in minerals, so eat them a lot.
2. Natural carbohydrates
Senior citizens and cholesterol do not mix well. Bear in mind that you’re not as active as you were in your 20s and 30s. Thus, you’re at risk of developing lifestyle diseases for the elderly.
That means you avoid processed foods, sugar, and oily starch since such foods will increase your chances of getting sick.
You should get your daily dose of energy from natural carbohydrates like sweet potatoes. You can also check cholesterol guidelines for seniors to get more options.
However, once in a while, you can treat yourself to fries and a burger when the grandkids come over.
3. Omega-3 fatty acids.
Should the elderly take omega-3? The answer is yes. It’s impossible to discuss what are some healthy diet for senior citizens and fail to mention these essential fats.
Omega will improve your memory, provide you with the right fats for your heart, and give you a better muscle quality.
You will get Omega-3 from:
- Seafood
- Fish
- Chia seeds
- Flax seeds
- Eggs
- Soy beverages
The best foods for seniors contain all the nutrients mentioned above because aging needs lots of proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
4. Water
Did you know that senior citizens are more vulnerable to dehydration than young people? Dehydration among the elderly is one of the reasons they get admitted to the hospital.
As people age, the changes happening to their bodies ruin appetite for both food and water. So, seniors can go through their daily routines without thirsting for water.
However, water is life. It would help if you had it to keep your vital organs healthy. Therefore, how do you make sure you remember to drink your water?
Install care planning software to keep track of your water intake. You can also use the same program to keep all your health records and doctors’ appointments.
5. Fruits, vegetables, and nuts
These three for the icing on the cake. Look at any elderly meal plan samples, and you will see generous servings of fruits, vegetables, and nuts because:
- They provide enough roughage for better digestion.
- They’re natural appetite builders.
- They’re affordable and easy to find.
- Fruits give the body plenty of fluids.
- Most nuts contain essential oils.
- The three have enough vitamins, proteins, and minerals.
Conclusion
Now you know what are some healthy diet for senior citizens. The keys to a healthy lifestyle for any older adult are the right diet, enough water, and care support software. Old age will be a blessing in disguise once you do everything right.