National Nutrition Month! What does good nutrition mean? Good nutrition means your body gets all the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals it needs to work its best. The proper nutrition for seniors means they stay at a healthy weight, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and have enough energy to stay active.
Seniors often experience changes in eating habits due to a variety of factors, including medications, physical or mental health issues, and changes in appetite. Accessing fresh and healthy foods due to financial or physical limitations may also be an issue.
Here are a few points to keep in mind.
- Prioritize foods with little to no added sugar, saturated fats, and sodium.
- Get enough protein throughout your day to maintain muscle mass.
- Focus on the nutrients you need, including potassium, calcium, vitamin D, dietary fiber, and vitamin B12.
- With age, you may lose some of your sense of thirst. Drink water often. Low- or fat-free milk, including lactose-free options or fortified soy beverage and 100% juice can also help you stay hydrated. Limit beverages that have lots of added sugars or salt & learn which drinks are the healthier choices.
- Learn how much to eat from all five food groups and find out how many calories you need each day to help you maintain energy using the MyPlate Plan.
- Avoid unnecessary illness by keeping food safe with the Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill process at. You can read more about it at gov.
To ensure you and your loved one gets the right nutrition, it’s important to plan meals that are balanced and nutritious. Eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated can help seniors stay healthy, active, and alert. It’s important to speak to a healthcare provider if seniors have difficulty meeting their nutritional needs.
If you’d like to learn more or are considering a nursing home or assisted living for a loved one in northern NJ, The Little Nursing Home of Montclair offers a cozy and calm atmosphere with the comforts of home. Call or email us for more info to schedule a tour.