It’s no secret that a nutritious diet is necessary for a healthy body. What many people don’t understand, however, is that nutritional recommendations for adults change as we grow older. Nutritional professionals at Tufts University have introduced the MyPlate system, which is a more advanced adaptation of the former food pyramid, supplying up-to-date dietary guidelines to ensure a healthy diet for seniors in particular.
The MyPlate for Older Adults model offers facts on foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals and low in salt, sugar, and fat; however, it also offers guidance on topics such as suggested physical activities and fluid consumption, issues that are of special concern for seniors.
Given that activity levels are oftentimes diminished, seniors tend to need fewer calories as they grow older, but they also still need identical or higher levels of nutrients and regular activity for ideal health. MyPlate for Older Adults suggests:
- Brightly-colored vegetables, like peppers and carrots
- Deeply-colored fruits, including melons and berries
- Whole, fortified, enriched grains and cereals, such as brown rice
- Low- and non-fat dairy products, like yogurt and low lactose milk
- Liquid vegetable oils and soft spreads, which are lower in saturated and trans fats
- Spices instead of salt
- Liquids such as water and fat-free milk
- Physical activity, like walking, resistance training, and light household chores
Additionally, other recommendations include taking advantage of options that are more simplified to prepare and reduce waste, including bags of frozen pre-cut vegetables and individual-portion containers of fruit.
At Compassionate Care Home Health Services, the experts in senior care in Traverse City and nearby areas, we understand it can be a struggle to help ensure a healthy diet for seniors. Our trained and experienced caregivers can help plan and prepare nutritious, appetizing meals according to your loved one’s specific nutritional needs, along with a full range of both non-medical and skilled nursing home health services.
Contact us online or call us at 877.308.1212 to learn more about our professional senior care in Traverse City and to arrange for a free in-home assessment. Our caregivers are available to provide a variety of personal care services, including grocery shopping and meal preparation, to help support a healthy diet for seniors. To learn more about all of the areas we serve, please visit our Locations page.