Senior Nutrition: 5 Great Foods to Keep an Aging Senior Healthy

healthy-food-background-CWNJZ4B

 

Our bodies lose nutrients as we age naturally. Learn about senior nutrition with these five great foods to keep an aging senior healthy.

About one in three seniors admitted to the hospital are malnourished.

Nutrition plays a significant role in the overall well-being of a person. That significance only increases as we get older, so proper senior nutrition is a must.

What foods should you keep around? Here are five of the best foods to keep an aging senior healthy.

fish-chips-and-beer-party-of-friends-eating-and-VCT9XPA

  1. Fish

Seafood is wonderful for seniors for a multitude of reasons.

First, fish like salmon and tuna are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Research shows that omega-3 can improve cognitive performance, lowers blood pressure, and can even help prevent heart disease.

It's also low in calories. For seniors struggling with their weight, fish have an impressive calorie to nutrition ratio, so weight management isn't as big of a concern compared to other meats.

oats-with-egg-and-green-apple-PUMS3PU

  1. Oatmeal

Oatmeal isn't the most exciting food in the world, but it is one of the healthiest.

A quarter of a cup of steel-cut oats contains seven grams of protein, as well as five grams of both soluble and insoluble fibers. For an even bigger protein-packed punch, you can mix in peanut butter, which will also give the oatmeal a richer flavor.

For seniors with dental issues, oatmeal is a prime choice, as its soft enough that it won't hurt their teeth.

almond-with-jar-of-almond-milk-and-white-flowers-U3ELYWF

  1. Almonds

If you or your senior don't have a nut allergy, you'll want to stock up on almonds. They're rich in antioxidants, high in vitamin E, and full of fiber.

A word of warning: You'll want to watch how many almonds your senior eats, as they're calorically dense.

With that said, they're also among the most protein-rich foods on the planet and make a perfect snack. So, go ahead and indulge. Almonds make the perfect toppers for salads, chicken, and breakfast foods.

bunch-of-bananas-on-wooden-background-F94XJY6

  1. Bananas

In truth, you can't go wrong with most fruits and vegetables. But when it comes to nutrient density, the banana reigns supreme as one of the healthiest fruits out there.

A single banana contains fiber, vitamins B and C, magnesium, and of course, tons of potassium. Potassium is particularly important as it aids in the regulation of blood pressure

variety-of-beans-products-on-the-sack-PNUDKRN

  1. Beans

Beans are an affordable and delicious addition to just about any dish. Black beans and kidney beans are wonderful additions to a senior's diet.

Both contain high amounts of protein and fiber. Additionally, they contain thiamine, better known as vitamin B1. Vitamin B1 improves digestion and cognition, so seniors can stay sharp.

senior-couple-toasting-drinking-glasses-LTCQEK4

 

Senior Nutrition Tips to Keep Your Loved One Healthy

Keeping seniors healthy isn't always the easiest thing in the world. It's all too easy to just toss a TV dinner in the microwave.

But by thinking about your senior's health and reading up on these senior nutrition tips, you'll help them live a longer life with a better quality of living.

SeaCare wants to see you thrive at home and beyond! Are you considering senior care or home care?

Contact us today to learn about your home-based options.

 

 

1 Comment