A proper diet and a healthy life go hand in hand, especially for older adults, eating a variety of foods from all food groups can help supply the nutrients a person needs as they age.
According to a study conducted by the World Health Organization, a majority of diseases that older people are vulnerable to result from a lack of proper diet. For example, Degenerative diseases such as diabetes are diet-related.
But on the bright side, eating right and staying healthy doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with these recommendations.
The first tip takes us back to dietary basics. Water as a crucial part of any diet is more of an imperative for older adults as their bodies’ ability to conserve water decreases. It is essential to stay hydrated as dehydration causes drowsiness and confusion among other side effects.
The second tip for older adults is to include iron rich foods in their daily diet such as green vegetables, beans and peas. Iron plays a vital role in the body; it produces hemoglobin which carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Without enough iron intake body tissues get a limited supply of oxygen which in acute cases may cause anemia.
The third dietary tip for older adults is to eat lots of fruits. Apples, Avocados, Bananas and watermelons are perfect examples of fruits that are best for older adults. Fruits contain Potassium, vitamins and fiber which promotes immunity, reduces cholesterol and regulates blood pressure.
The fourth tip is to increase calcium intake. Calcium helps our bodies build and maintain healthy bones and it also lowers blood pressure. The body’s need for calcium is so essential that, if you are not getting enough calcium, it begins to reabsorb it from the bones making them fragile and brittle. Older adults need it to stay strong and active as they age. Foods rich in Calcium are mainly dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese, as well as leafy green vegetables and cereals fortified with calcium.
Last but definitely not least, add physical activity to the mix! Balancing a healthy diet and a mild fitness activity is the best recipe for a healthy body. Taking a walk, a couple of minutes long every day provides the best exercise. You can start at a slow pace gradually increasing to a more challenging one.
As you get older, eating well can help improve mental acuteness, boost your energy levels, and increase your resistance to illness. Adopt a healthy diet for a healthy life.
Stay tuned for more health and nutrition tips.
