As we get older, we need to be more mindful of our health. Doing so allows us to enjoy our later years instead of struggling through them. One of the most effective ways to improve your health is to eat better.
Eating better can mean many different things. It can sometimes be difficult to figure out what you should be doing with your diet. Keep reading to get a closer look at why nutrition matters for older adults and how you should approach it.
Healthy eating is important for individuals of all ages. It provides us with the energy we need to get through the day and helps us manage our weights. Healthy eating can also prevent diseases like type 2 diabetes.
As we get older, our dietary needs shift a bit. This means that healthy eating for an older adult will look a bit differently than it does for a younger person.
Older adults have slower metabolisms, which means they need fewer calories than they previously did. You may also need more servings of certain nutrients. Be sure to check with your doctor to figure out what your ideal diet would consist of.
Keeping yourself hydrated will boost your overall nutrition tremendously. The best way to accomplish this is by drinking small amoutns of fluids consistently throughout the day. Water is your best option, but tea and coffee can help some, too.
Superfoods are foods that are highly dense nutritionally. Eating them regularly can have a huge impact on your health and wellness. There are many different superfoods that you can try. This includes blueberries, kale, sweet potatoes, beans, and even some types of nuts.
Instead of building your meals around the foods that taste the best, try to get into the habit of building them around specific nutrients. Your plates should look like a rainbow in that they’re full of a variety of vibrant natural colors.
The nutrients you should be focusing on here are lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products. Build most of your meals out of these ingredients and you should start feeling healthier in no time at all.
Getting more out of your food budget will enable you to purchase the healthy foods that your body needs. You can do this by signing up for the Supplemenetal Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
SNAP provides older adults with an average of $113 each month. It could be just what you need to embrace a healthier diet. You can sign up here if you’re interested in SNAP.
You can also use your Medicare health insurance to work towards better nutrition. Your coverage could allow you to see a doctor who can help you create a personalized nutrition plan. This is one of the most effective ways to make the shift to a healthier lifestyle.
That being said, there are many different kinds of Medicare plans. You may be unsure about what nutritional services yours covers. If so, consider reaching out to Time for 65’s partnered licensed agents. They can offer you more detailed information about your options under Medicare.
You can reach an agent by filling out this form or giving us a call. We look forward to hearing from you.
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