Maintaining a healthy, well-balanced diet is important for older adults. Proper nutrition can minimize a senior’s risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke. Also, a healthy diet for aging people can lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels as well as build up the ability of the body to manage a number of illnesses and chronic conditions a senior may already have. Also, the right choice of foods is necessary for better memory retention and sharper memory.
But, the metabolic rate and activity levels drop as people age. And seniors may only need a few calories to allow their body to properly function. But this doesn’t mean they can practice poor eating habits. Regardless of age, good eating habits are important for our overall health and wellbeing. If you want help with food preparation, consider hiring a provider of health care in Marion, Indiana. To practice good eating habits, we have some tips for you:
Eat Breakfast
As experts say, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. And because this is your first meal of the day, this should be the time to eat the most nutritious food. A protein-rich breakfast provides the body the much-needed fuel to function properly throughout the day.
Set an Eating Schedule and Stick to It
This kind of approach can help in increasing your appetite. Apart from meals, consider designating time for snacking. This can help your body get used to a daily routine.
Go for Natural, Healthy Food Choices
Instead of splurging on prepackaged chips or cookies, go for fresh vegetables. You can chop them up and portion into bags and containers that you can easily reach when you crave for a snack. Prepackaged choices are packed with empty calories so better go for fresh food items like whole grain crackers, nuts and fruits you can get nutrients from.
Focus on Getting More Nutrients Instead of Increasing Portions
Keep in mind that your appetite may have reduced a little, so big portions may easily overwhelm you. Consider keeping the portions on the small side while incorporating some nutritious food items. For instance, think about adding milk to your hot cereal rather than water.
Introduce or Incorporate new Flavors
As you age, your taste buds may have changed. What’s delicious for you before may already be one of the items in your hate list. Think about adding various herbs and spices, sauces or marinades to your recipes for new exciting flavors.
Eat with Others
According to a number of studies, older adults who eat with some people around them have bigger appetites than seniors who dine alone. Skipping meals is common for seniors who live alone because nobody is there to remind them when it’s meal time.
New Horizons Home Healthcare is an Indiana-based care provider with home health aides happy to offer services like meal preparation. Learn how our services may be able to help you. Visit our site at http://www.nhhomehealth.com/home-health-care-services.