Eating Well as You Age

The Benefits of Eating Healthy Go Beyond Energy and Appearance

By Emily Havens, Director of Marketing, Ovation Sienna Hills

Photos by Chris Caldwell

It can be difficult breaking bad habits, especially if you have a “bad habit buddy.” We all have them. Most often, it’s a spouse, partner, close friend, or another loved one. Going out to lunch and ordering French fries and a pastrami sandwich each time you play nine holes, for example, is an easy (albeit tasty) habit to fall into.

With age, the body changes, and we must be more careful about our eating choices, especially since, according to Healthline, studies indicate that as people age, their metabolism tends to slow down. This is typically a result of diminished physical activity and the general effects of aging on the body. Now is the time to commit to your overall wellness so that you can get the most out of life with family and friends.

Prevent Illnesses Common to Longevity

While choosing to live a healthy lifestyle and to eat healthier is crucial for overall wellness at any age, some studies show the benefit for enhanced nutrition can go beyond providing energy and controlling weight. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine’s MedlinePlus report on nutrition for older adults, good nutrition could possibly play a role in preventing diseases ranging from heart disease to cancer to type 2 diabetes.

Furthermore, there are also studies that show eating healthy can help prevent Alzheimer’s Disease. One study published by the Mayo Clinic claimed folks who eat more whole grains, vegetables, berries, fish, nuts, and beans multiple times per week were, on average, more likely to have a brain as sharp as those who were 7.5 years younger. The study also suggested that decreasing the use of butter, cheese, pastries, and alcoholic beverages each week could provide additional benefits.

Eating Right Makes Living All the More Pleasant in a Retirement Community

Ovation Sienna Hills has an executive chef who utilizes more than 1,000 healthy recipes, so you are certain to find your favorite items on the menu. Plus, their culinary plan makes it easy to come, go, eat, and drink whenever you desire. Community tastes are considered and woven into every menu to make things new and fresh. Memorable culinary experiences—that are also healthy for you!—are waiting for you at Ovation Sienna Hills.

How Do I Get Started?

No, you don’t have to break up with your “bad habit buddy,” but you’ll want to break up with your bad habits. Remember that if you plan on making any significant changes to your meals or exercise routine, it’s wise to assess your current condition and consult with your physician first if you have any concerns about dietary adjustments.

However, incorporating more leafy greens into your home-cooked meals or avoiding a high-cholesterol pastrami sandwich every once in a while is a great way to ease into a lifestyle change. In fact, many professionals suggest adding healthy foods to your existing diet—not taking away unhealthy foods altogether—to ease your body into new habits.

And remember, you don’t have to be a perfect dieter to reap the benefits of healthy eating.

If you would like to talk with a representative from Ovation Sienna Hills about enhancing your life, please call (435) 429-0000, go to their website at www.ovationsiennahills.com, or visit their community on the corner of Washington Parkway and Telegraph Street at 1525 E. Ovation Place in Washington, Utah, 84780.

About the Author

Emily Havens is the Executive Community Relations Director for Ovation Sienna Hills. Prior to developing her marketing career, Emily spent three years at The Spectrum and Daily News as a local journalist. Emily has garnered several awards from the Associated Press, Utah Press Association, and Nevada Press Association. In addition to her contributions to journalism and the digital marketing world, Emily is also a local nonprofit chapter president.

Emily Havens, Director of Marketing, Ovation Sienna Hills