The Right Diet for Seniors

In old age, our body goes through a lot of changes. The bones get weaker, the digestion system does not function as well as it used to, muscle strength deteriorates, and the immunity system is weakened. The nutritional needs of individuals also change significantly as they age.

To maintain good health, seniors must eat carbohydrates, minerals, proteins, and vitamins in easy-to-digest small frequent meals every day. To avoid the ill-effects of free radicals in the body, vitamins E, C, and A, plus certain minerals are essential. It is important to eat the right types of foods to fulfill the requirement of nutrients in the body. If you are unsure what is right for you, speak with your doctor. Some medications may interact with certain foods, or you may have other restrictions.

A healthy diet for seniors should consist of the below.

• Include protein rich elements like beans and cheese made from low-fat milk in your daily meal. They help to repair worn-out cells and develop new tissues.
• Add seasonal fruits and vegetables in your diet. They not only work as antioxidants but also prevent constipation and other common problems of the body.
• To improve the cholesterol level in the blood, use mustard oil or olive oil in your cooking instead of corn or vegetable oils.  
•  Vegetable soups without thickening agents can be great for supper. They also make easy 6 small easy to digest meals and snacks throughout the day. Just watch the sodium level.
•  Avoid processed foods containing artificial colors and preservatives. 
• Eat potassium-rich foods such as bananas, mushrooms, peas, broccoli, fenugreek seeds, sweet limes, coconut water, and cumin seeds to maintain blood pressure, prevent water retention, and increase muscular flexibility. 
• Drink about 12 to 15 glasses of water to avoid the risk of dehydration and muscle density reduction in summer. 
• To keep the vital nutrients in the food, do not overcook it. It is also good to include granola, oats or porridge in your breakfast to get a sufficient amount of energy for the entire day.

If you are looking for professional Elder Care Assistance in Contra Costa County, get in touch with Always Best Care. Their compassionate and trained caregivers can help you with your physical, social, and emotional needs. For more information, call (925) 210-0323.