Nutrition Facts for Seniors
March is here, and all eyes are on nutrition. Did you know that this month is National Nutrition Month? We’re talking about the importance of healthy food and lifestyle choices, including physical activity. While we teach our children about eating healthy, we can often forget about our senior neighbors and loved ones. Do you know which things could change as we get older? Follow along as we share helpful tips for eating right while aging well.
At the PodiatryCare, PC and the Heel Pain Center, we have seen the results of poor diet. From broken bones due to osteoporosis to diabetes. Here are five ways to age well with the right foods on your plate:
1. Half and half
How is your plate looking? According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, filling half of your plate with fruits and veggies is the way to go. Whether you choose a fresh vegetable or a canned vegetable option, you’re on the right track. Frozen veggies are great, too. Keep in mind that you want to avoid items that have too much sodium or salt.
2. Prioritize portion sizes
Guess what? We don’t need as many calories as we age. Although we may be used to larger portion sizes, it’s time to re-think how we eat. When you are full, set aside the remaining food as leftovers. A helpful tip is to use smaller plates and glasses.
3. Fill your cup
Did you know that drinking the right amount of water helps with your digestion? It also helps to reduce your risk of becoming dehydrated. When choosing beverages, you can explore other options. Look for unsweetened drinks and choose low-fat milk.
The above suggestions are just the beginning. Think about these phrases when helping an older loved one choose meals:
Switch up protein choices
Whole-grain foods are a winning option
Skip out on the added sugars
Stay mindful of saturated fats
Do you need more support for your diet as you age? If you have diabetes, monitoring your food is critical to healthy blood sugar management. When levels are too high or too low, there can be dangerous consequences. Connect with us soon to learn more about finding support.
Our board-certified team of foot and ankle doctors at PodiatryCare, PC and the Heel Pain Center has experience with addressing foot needs, including bunions and hammertoes, pediatric foot care, custom orthotics, heel pain, diabetic foot care, and more. The team includes Dr. Charlotte George, Dr. Matthew Tschudy, Dr. Rebecca Wiesner, Dr. Kristen Winters, and Dr. Laura Vander Poel. We have two locations in Hartford County: 1379 Enfield Street, Enfield, CT, and 1350 Sullivan Avenue, South Windsor, CT. To schedule an appointment at our Enfield location, call (860) 741-3041; for an appointment at our South Windsor location, call (860) 644-6525.