5 Ways to Maintain a Nutritional Diet While Aging

Since senior years often come with a number of health issues and other challenges, aging is a natural process, of which seniors should not be agitated. There are certain ways, which can ease maintaining a good health. A balanced diet along with regular physical activity is known to prolong life.
Experts at Home Care Assistance of Barrie share five steps to maintain a nutritional diet in senior years.

1. Stay Hydrated

It is essential for seniors to drink water throughout the day to prevent dehydration. Avoid beverages with excess alcohol, sugar, and salt. Consider adding natural flavors to the water, like orange, lime, lemon, watermelon or even herbal tea, in order to increase the consumption of fluids. Make sure your loved one doesn’t drink caffeinated teas during night, as it will cause sleep deprivation.

2. Consume Weight-Based Calories

Seniors need fewer calories than younger adults. Therefore, they should consume enough calories to stay healthy. The amount of calorie intake differs if seniors want to lose, gain, or maintain current weight. The food intake of seniors may decrease as they get older. Senior men usually need 2,000 calories per day, while senior women need 1,600 to 2,000 daily calories.

Find a helpful body weight planner for your loved one to follow. You should determine the amount of calories your senior loved one needs for daily consumption.

3. Eat a Variety of Foods Every Day

It is important for seniors to get essential nutrients on a daily basis. A healthy diet focuses on nutrient-rich foods, which are high in vitamins, minerals, and proteins. Your loved one should eat foods, which can control blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight, including:

● Fruits and vegetables

● Whole grains in the form of brown rice or pasta

● Proteins such as beans, eggs, lean red meats, and seafood

● Dairy products including low-fat milk (or alternatives if lactose intolerant)

4. Review the labels on packaged foods

While fresh foods are usually the healthiest, often prepackaged items are just more convenient. Packaged foods can save time cooking if seniors have a busy schedule. Make sure your loved one reads the label and buy food items with lower sodium, sugar, and fats. Remember, foods with monounsaturated fats are a healthier alternative to saturated fats.

5. Quit Smoking

If your loved one smokes, he or she should stop it completely. Smoking not only weakens the senses of smell and taste but causes major health issues as well. Instead, your loved one should consume more vitamins and minerals. If you need help with your caregiving duties or need professional assistance for a loved one with cognitive decline, consider hiring Barrie Alzheimer’s Care experts who can also help with daily chores, on-time medication, and mobility.