Good nutrition and healthy eating are essential for all ages, especially seniors. Consuming too much unhealthy food for use causes adverse health effects as it is one of the leading causes of death among heart diseases, strokes, and diabetes. There are many benefits of healthy eating and good nutrition for seniors that would help them well into their elder years. This blog will cover the benefits of good nutrition and healthy eating and will overview healthy food choices for seniors.
Benefits Of Good Nutrition and Eating Healthy
Boosts Energy
Eating healthy daily can increase the overall energy an individual has. This benefits seniors because they tend to lose energy as they age. A study states that adults tend to see their energy decline when they turn 50. Foods that are beneficial for Seniors to consume are foods that contain complex carbohydrates because they can assist in generating more energy. As well as foods that include things such as Omega 3 fatty acids, potassium, and vitamins have benefits that reduce your fatigue and increase your energy. Overall, since seniors are more likely to have lower energy levels, good nutrition and eating healthy are very beneficial to increase their daily energy.
Protects Against Diseases
One of the main benefits of eating healthy and good nutrition is the health benefits it prevents seniors. Healthy eating can reduce high blood sugar, which is beneficial because high blood pressure can cause heart attacks or strokes. As well as good nutrition and healthy eating can also reduce the risk of diabetes, dementia, and heart and liver diseases. It also can help reduce the risk of other conditions such as cancer, type 2 diabetes, and osteoporosis. Overall, eating healthy provides a plethora of benefits for seniors but is especially beneficial because it helps prevents the risk of diseases that are more common among seniors.
Improve Cognitive Function
Research suggests that eating correctly and eating specific types of foods can improve cognitive function as well as a slow down cognitive decline when you get older. It has been found that foods that have high omega-three fatty acids can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s as well as improve cognitive function. Foods that have high antioxidants can increase memory and alertness. Also, foods such as broccoli, spinach, collards, and kale are rich in brain-healthy nutrients, which benefit seniors. Oranges are also very good for cognitive function because they contain Vitamin C. According to research having a lot of vitamin C in your bloodstream was associated with improvements in focus, attention, decision, and speed. Overall good nutrition and healthy eating are very beneficial to seniors because they can improve cognitive function and decrease the risk of memory loss.
Healthy Food Choices
A healthy diet consists of different foods that provide different things, such as vitamins, protein, and other nutrients we need. Below we will list healthy foods seniors can eat to reap the benefit of eating healthy and having a good nutritional diet.
- Lean Protein
- Lean meats( beef, pork, chicken, fish)
- Eggs
- Seafood
- Nuts
- Tofu
- Whole grain Foods
- Brown rice
- Bread
- Whole wheat pasta
- Oats or Oatmeal
- Dairy
- Cheese
- Milk
- Yogurt
- Fruits and Vegetables
- Oranges
- Blueberries
- Papayas
- Prunes
- Berries
- Kiwi
- Bananas
- Broccoli
- Kale
- Spinach
- Collards
Conclusion
Overall good nutrition and healthy eating are very beneficial for seniors because they keep them healthy as they age. Eating healthy also improves cognitive function and decreases seniors’ cognitive function loss as they get older, which is beneficial because 40% of people 65 and older experience memory loss. Also, it increases their energy as most seniors experience lower energy, as it is stated that energy loss starts at the age of 50. Are you interested in healthy eating and nutrition? We have an incredible program on senior health and nutrition. Register Today!
Nutrition and Proper Eating
Strong Play has an incredible program that teaches seniors about the importance of nutrition head to https://strongplay.ca/senior-health-and-nutrition/ to learn more!