Most people understand the link between what we eat and our health. Food is not only the fuel that drives us but it is also a key determinant of our health. It does this in several ways. Principally, it provides the nutrients that our body needs to stay strong and healthy. If we miss these nutrients, then we are weaker, and more prone to opportunistic diseases and we could even catch other diseases due to malnutrition. The other way that food determines how healthy we are is because it provides the fuel we need to stay active and thus more healthy. If we are weak, we are are unable to work out and this means we face the risk of conditions such as obesity and many other illnesses.
The key takeaway from this is that what we eat matters. So how can we ensure that our loved ones eat a balanced diet and stay healthy and strong? Here are some great tips for a healthy diet for seniors.
Less Junk and Trans-fats
The United States is facing an obesity crisis and this, in turn, translates to higher incidences of diabetes, high blood pressure, heart diseases, and many others. One of the reasons for this is the prevalence of fast food and fizzy drinks. These kinds of food have become cheaper and more accessible over the years, meaning that many Americans are likely to order such food rather than spend an hour or two preparing a healthy meal. This is especially true for seniors who may not have the energy to cook or to go out to get fresh ingredients.
By planning meals better and ensuring that we keep fast food to a minimum, your loved one can enjoy the benefits of a healthy diet.
Drink More Water
Water is one of the most important fluids in our lives and yet it is often the most overlooked. In the United States, there are numerous products that seem to suggest that they are just as effective as plain water. The truth of the matter is that water is the most healthy drink that your loved one can take. It contains no calories and helps with many body functions including metabolism. Water is even great for your skin and organ health. For the best results, do not wait to feel thirsty in order to drink water. Instead, drink water throughout the day and stick to the recommended eight glasses of water a day.
Eat More Healthily
Healthy eating is not just about what you eat but how you eat and how it is prepared. For starters, wherever possible, try to eat food that is grown organically without the use of pesticides and fertilizers. A great way to do this is to grow some of your own food items such as vegetables. This way, you know exactly what is in the food you are eating. You also get to stay active and healthy while gardening. You should also take time to savor your food and eat without distractions. This is because research suggests that we eat less when we focus on our food as we tend to notice when we are full.
