As we age, it is not so easy to eat a Big Mac three times a week like we did when we were 20! Nutrition plays a big part in your overall health and can prevent health issues, diseases, and energy loss. As we age, it is important to practice a well-rounded diet for seniors that improves health.

Importance of Proper Nutrition and Diet for Seniors

Even if you have been eating Big Macs weekly since you were 20, it is not too late to change your nutrition and improve your diet as a senior citizen. This diet change, or maintaining a great diet for seniors, is important for your health with these nutritious benefits:

• Improved Energy. The vitamins and nutrients in a healthier diet is something your body is craving, both physically and mentally. When you eat healthy, your body has the right source to zap your limbs and mind full of energy. Your mood, self-esteem, and even looks will get better with happier hormones flowing through you.
• Improved Mental Capacity. When you have a healthy diet of fruit, veggies, nuts, and fish with good fat packed in every punch, you can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other issues your memory suffers as you age. Mental alertness will improve with these nutritious options.
• Improved Longevity. Eating well improves your immune system and can help you fight off disease and conditions that occur in your body as you age. A healthy diet will allow your immune system to prevent stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and general illnesses.

How to Eat Healthier

So how do you make this change to a healthier diet for seniors and see all the nutritious benefits as you age? A lot of aspects of a healthy diet depend on how your body reacts to certain foods. Generally speaking, it is a good idea to follow these guidelines when it comes to your senior nutrition:

• Get Meal Smart. Sometimes seniors skip meals or only eat one big meal a day. This is the opposite of what you should be doing. Try to eat five to six small meals per day to avoid strain on your stomach from a large meal and to maintain level insulin levels. It is also important to make lunch your big meal of the day so you don’t suffer digestive issues at bed time.
• Increase Whole Grains. When you are adding carbs to your diet, it is important to make them good carbs with whole grain breads, cereals, and rice.
• Add More Fruits and Veggies to Your Diet. The enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and fiber that occurs naturally in fresh fruit and veggies does wonders for your diet and health!
• Stay Hydrated. Water is very important to maintain your fluid levels. Try to keep a water bottle with you at all times to keep sipping from. Changing your diet to include more fruits and veggies will also help provide natural hydration.