As we get older, we have to take care of our bodies a little more. Muscle mass loss, bone degeneration, unwanted weight gain, slow calorie burning, and more are things seniors, and in many cases, others will have to deal with. However, all hope is not lost. Employing an effective and nutritious diet will keep you healthy and your body strong. What is a good diet for seniors? If you’re asking yourself that question, then you’ve come to the right place.
First, you want to accompany your diet with hydration. By drinking enough water, you make sure your digestive system is running smoothly. The recommended amount is 64 ounces a day. Fruits and vegetables also contain water, providing another avenue for hydration. Drinking plenty of water gives you the energy you need for an active lifestyle.
After you fill up those water bottles, the next step in your senior meal planning is protein. Protein helps you sustain healthy and appropriate levels of muscle mass. It also strengthens your bones and brings life longevity. The recommended protein rich foods for seniors to consume are salmon, grass fed beef, whole eggs, poultry, and organic whey protein powder.
The third step is to find foods that are low in calories. Low calorie diets decrease weight and help you maintain that weight loss. Not only does this lower the risk of some diseases like diabetes and heart disease, it may also improve muscle mass. To create a low-calorie diet, eat smaller portions or snacks and avoid junk foods that are high in fat, empty carbohydrates, and sugar. Recommended types of foods to eat are fish, whole grains, low fat or fat free dairy, poultry, vegetables, fruits, and beans. When eating meat, make sure it’s lean.
With benefits such as improving muscle mass, avoiding or delaying disease, life longevity, decreasing weight, fortifying bones, and much more, having a senior-centered diet is a smart decision. It’s important to take care of ourselves, especially as we advance in age.
There are some elderly individuals who may have difficulty practicing this diet by themselves or may have a hard time with daily activities. Luckily, there are wonderful home care services that can help. Griswold Home Care of Greater Orlando, including Winter Park, Lake Mary, and surrounding central Florida cities, refers excellently trained caregivers that will tend to your loved one’s medical and daily needs with a friendly and helpful presence. Two of the services they offer are grocery shopping and preparing meals. They can work with your needs and your doctor’s recommendations to provide healthy meals. The owners, Herm and Mary Carter Eick, believe strongly that everyone in need deserves quality care in their own homes whenever possible as well as the utmost dignity and respect in the delivery of that care. Contact them to learn more today!