The right nutrition for seniors

Proper eating habits and good nutrition affects us at all ages

The way we eat and the kind of foods we consume significantly affect out lives. The influence our weight, our health, the way we feel in general, and more. The impact of nutrition is more pronounced as we get older; seniors feel the effects of their eating habits and nutrition much more than younger people. Therefore, as we grow older, it is important to eat properly. Good eating habits can influence the physical and mental wellbeing of a person, and even his or her moods.

What is proper nutrition for seniors?

• Reducing the intake of fat: It is important to understand that the elderly process foods less effectively than younger people. The liver and intestines do not function optimally, and therefore fats can build up in the walls of arteries, resulting in the risk of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). Reducing the daily consumption of fat, especially saturated fat, enables the body to better cope with these changes. It also helps prevent heart problems, acid and nausea, and more.
• Reducing sugar consumption: The older we are, the harder it is for the body to keep sugar levels balanced. With time older people may develop resistance to insulin, and fluctuations occur in levels of blood sugar. As a result, blood sugar levels should be stabilized by reducing sugar consumption and treating diabetes, if it has already developed.
• Staying hydrated: Elderly people tend to drink less water because they are less active and less in the sun, and therefore do not feel thirsty. This is problematic because it exposes seniors to the risk of dehydration, which can be fatal at this age. Therefore, it is important that seniors drink enough water over the course of the day, even when not exercising.
• Reduce consumption of milk products: Our ability to process milk products decreases over the years, and in old age, milk can cause nausea, diarrhea, inflammations and even allergic reactions. By avoiding milk products, we improve the body’s digestive systems. It is important, however, to ensure that the body gets the required daily intake of calcium through the consumptions of green vegetables and supplements.

In addition to proper nutrition, it is important to exercise regularly in order to stay healthy.

Proper nutrition is not enough; seniors must also exercise regularly in order to stay in good health, prevent sickness and the need for medications, enhance mental wellbeing and improve quality of life.