Eating a well-balanced diet is vital at any age, but it becomes increasingly important as you age. Senior adults are susceptible to many health conditions closely related to their eating. Therefore, following a healthy diet is a top priority to decrease the risk of developing specific medical issues. Many seniors benefit from nutrition counseling to start practicing more nutritious eating habits.
Nutrition counseling gives senior adults the guidance and information they need to follow a well-balanced diet. This counseling enlists expert dieticians who can offer healthy eating tips for seniors tailored to their unique needs.
Read on to learn about healthy foods for seniors. Call Buckner Retirement Services at 214.227.7182 for additional information about nutrition counseling.
Why Is Diet Important for Senior Adults?
While people of every age can develop certain medical issues, senior adults are particularly vulnerable to numerous health concerns. The following are just a few of the health issues that seniors are at an increased risk of developing:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- High cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Osteoporosis
- Osteoarthritis
Many of these medical conditions are intricately linked to the foods you eat, which means you can lower your risk of developing them by following a healthy diet.
5 Healthy Foods for Seniors
Seniors can incorporate many different types of foods to maintain a well-balanced diet and help prevent health problems. Below are some healthy eating tips for seniors, including five foods you should include in your diet.
1. Fish
Some of the most beneficial nutrients for senior adults are omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids can improve the function and stability of nearly all body systems, including the cardiovascular, nervous, and immune systems.
Fortunately, omega-3 fatty acids are in abundant supply within natural fish oil. To get plenty of omega-3 fatty acids in their diet, healthy meals for seniors can include salmon, mackerel, and herring.
2. Leafy Greens
Another essential nutrient for seniors is calcium. Calcium can provide various health benefits, including supporting bone strength and lowering blood pressure.
Calcium is in high quantities in cheese and milk. However, these aren’t the best sources of calcium for senior adults. Dairy products can raise cholesterol, leading to other health issues. Instead, seniors can get calcium from leafy greens like spinach and kale.
3. Nuts and Seeds
Incorporating nuts and seeds into snacks and meals can be one of the most important healthy diet tips for seniors because they are full of fiber. Fiber is essential to a well-balanced diet because it promotes proper digestive function, helping prevent chronic constipation. Foods high in fiber can also help lower cholesterol for some senior adults.
4. Organ Meats
Many seniors are deficient in iron, leading to issues like anemia and cognitive decline. Organ meats such as chicken liver should be a regular part of any senior’s diet to resolve an iron deficiency. However, it is important not to eat too much red meat — it can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high cholesterol.
5. Beans
Beans are some of the healthiest foods for seniors because they include many vital nutrients. They are high in fiber, protein, and zinc. The vitamins and minerals in beans work together to promote digestive health, bone strength, and skin health.
Healthy Meals for Seniors at Buckner Retirement Services
Understanding the types of healthy foods for seniors is a significant first step in creating a healthy lifestyle and diet. Are you or a loved one in need of nutrition counseling? Buckner Retirement Services provides nutrition education for senior adults to help them follow a more well-balanced diet. To learn more about healthy diet tips for seniors, call Buckner Retirement Services at 214.227.7182.