Although it's important to eat healthy at an age, as we age, it's essential to make smart nutrition choices, as doing so can help older adults stay independent and active. Doing so can help lower your medical costs and improve your quality of life. Many of us already know how important it is to eat healthy. We know to avoid processed food and other unhealthy food options. Healthy eating changes as we get older. As our bodies need more nutrients, we need fewer calories, and our metabolism slows down. It's vital for older adults to consider the nutrition of their food, as these changes can affect their body's needs. Having the proper information can help you make informed decisions. If you're planning on improving your diet and preventing medical issues, try these healthy eating tips. Share these with older adults in your community. Know your nutrients Having the proper nutrients can help keep us healthy and active. It's important to determine which nutrients are most important to eat. Having a variety of brightly colored food on your plate can help you plan your meals. A healthy meal should include protein sources such as lean meats, seafood, and eggs, as well as vegetables and fruits. You should also avoid foods with high salt content. Create a healthy plate The USDA has created a simple tool to help determine what you should eat each morning. The MyPlate graphic shows how various food groups should appear on your plate. This graphic can serve as a starting point for healthy eating and finding nutritious food options. Drink water One of the essential factors that you should consider when it comes to maintaining a healthy diet is drinking enough water. Drinking enough water can help keep you hydrated, and it can help prevent dehydration. However, avoid having a lot of salt and sugar in drinks unless your doctor has suggested otherwise. Read the nutritional facts label Although many people don't have the time to look at the nutritional labels of food products, it's still important to understand what's in them. Having the proper information can help you make informed decisions. When it comes to finding healthy food, try to look for items that are low in fat, sodium, and added sugars. Whole-grain food can be found in most supermarkets, offering the most nutritional benefits. Take advantage of your resources Older adults have many resources that can help them get the nutrition they need. If you're 60 or older, you might be eligible for the Senior Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as the "SNA." This can help you purchase food at local farmers' markets and grocery stores.
Season food with herbs and spices We sometimes add salt to our food to enhance its flavor. However, salt can have negative effects on our health, and it's not usually recommended for healthy eating. Instead, try adding some herbs and spices to your food to enhance its flavor. These can be very affordable options and help keep your diet low. Some of the herbs that you can try include rosemary, basil, and garlic. Plan your meals Planning ahead of time can help you plan your meals and save money at the grocery store. Having a well-defined meal plan can help you avoid making unhealthy decisions. One consideration when it comes to maintaining a healthy diet is avoiding buying food that will spoil. Instead, prepare your meals ahead of time and freeze them until they're ready to eat. Cut down on sugar One significant factor you should consider when maintaining a healthy diet is reducing the number of sugary drinks and food items that you consume. This can be done by replacing these with whole food products, such as sweet peppers and fruits. Add physical activity Getting active and eating nutritious food are two factors that can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. To help reach this goal, set a goal of at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day. If you're not currently active, start gradually and increase your activity. You can also try performing simple exercises like walking around the block. You can consult a health professional for a physical exercise plan that will suit your needs. Receive healthy meals at home If you're having a hard time preparing healthy meals, then a home-delivered meal service might be a good option. These services can provide you with a variety of options and healthy meals. Some of the perks of this type of service include a free trial and wellness checks.