As people age, it becomes more important to pay attention to what you’re eating. Your metabolism slows down because you require fewer calories. According to the National Council on Aging, there are organizations offering healthy eating tips specifically for seniors.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture features what a healthy plate for seniors should look like at MyPlate.gov. It features five basic food groups to choose from.
Mix It Up
Getting the right mix of nutrients is essential. Seniors should focus on lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. You should make sure your diet is high in fiber, low in sodium, and includes vitamin D.
Most foods feature nutrition fact labels that can be very helpful in choosing the right things to eat. Whole foods such as fruits and vegetables are healthier than packaged foods, but the labels can help you find foods lower in fat, low in sodium, and with fewer added sugars.
On its website at heart.org, the American Heart Association provides recommended serving sizes for those age 60 and up.
Other key tips are to always stay hydrated. Drink lots of water. And check to see if you’re eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that helps seniors with food bills.
Be sure to check out our other articles on Council of Seniors 365 for tips on leading a healthy, active lifestyle.
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