A healthy balanced diet is the key to wellness and vitality at every stage of life. While it's easier to make a healthy diet a priority when you're raising young children, seniors may find it more difficult to keep up with the challenges of maintaining a healthy and nutritious diet. Fortunately, just a bit of time and intention can help seniors have the kind of balanced diet that will make them as healthy as they can be.
1. Focus on Fresh
Fresh fruits and vegetables are one of the most essential components of a healthy diet for people of any age. Fruits like berries and citrus are great sources of vitamins, and vegetables in a rainbow of colors will provide most of the necessary nutrients. But not everyone likes to eat fruits and vegetables or knows how to prepare them. That's why experienced nutrition staff in an assisted living environment can be such valuable partners in helping your loved ones have a healthy diet.
2. Power Up with Protein
Getting enough protein is another important part of a healthy balanced diet. Protein builds and maintains muscle, which is crucial at every part of stage of the life span. Researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston found that consuming enough protein may even prevent or delay some of the declines in muscle tone sometimes associated with aging.
3. Just a Little Sweetness
Everyone loves a sweet treat every now and then. But a diet that's too high in sugar and other simple carbohydrates could actually lead to cognitive impairment in seniors, according to the Mayo Clinic. Having a carefully planned and supervised diet can make sure that your loved one gets an appropriate amount of sweetness. Life in a senior community can also focus the joy of eating on the shared experience instead of on empty calories.
4. Bulk Up with Fiber
Fiber is an essential part of a healthy balanced diet at every age. Fiber helps you feel full and satisfied for longer, and the Mayo Clinic reports that fiber helps to lower cholesterol levels, balance blood sugar levels and maintain a lower weight. Fiber is especially important in promoting healthy regularity in seniors, as well.
5. Food and Fun
Even though we strive to provide healthy, nutritious food for our residents, we also make sure that they still enjoy the fun aspect of food, too. We have special events where we provide special breakfasts and homemade treats to bring a little joy to the day.
A healthy balanced diet is more essential than ever to support wellness during the senior years. But seniors often find it difficult to plan and prepare the right combination of foods that they need to stay well. When you contact us to let us do the work, you'll have the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your loved one is getting the care they deserve.
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