Nutrition for Seniors

Our bodies change as we grow old, resulting in different nutritional needs compared to babies. Change in age greatly affects how your body processes food, thus influencing your dietary wants and appetite. Therefore, considering a diet that boosts your immunity and prevents chronic diseases can be important as you grow older. Seniors can suffer from micronutrients deficiency that hinders proper nutrition. You can always choose your diet rich in the following nutrient;

 

Foods high in omega-three and fatty acids

Fatty acids are important because they prevent inflammation, resulting in cancer, arthritis, or heart diseases. It helps slow down the muscular degeneration process- a condition leading to poor eyesight. The fatty acids enhance the brain's alertness by reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

 

Water

According to research, drinking eight glasses of water every day is considered physical activity and is important for your health. As one grows old, the body's ability to conserve water decreases, and he rarely feels thirsty. Dehydration can cause drowsiness and sometimes confusion, and so many side effects. Therefore it is advised to take lots of water.

 

Magnesium

It plays a critical role in the 300 physiological body functions.  It helps keep the heart and immune system healthy and enhances strong bones. Magnesium is mostly found in nuts, grains, vegetables, and fresh fruits.

 

Foods rich in iron

Iron produces hemoglobin that helps carry oxygen to different body parts of the body. When the body is not getting enough iron, there is less oxygen supply to the rest of the body parts from the lungs. Anemia is caused by a lack of iron in the body.

 

Foods rich in fiber

The digestive system slows down as you grow old. Gastrointestinal walls thicken, resulting in fewer contractions, thus leading to constipation. Foods rich in fiber promote proper digestion by forcing food through the digestive tract.

 

Diet Grade

Older people should have the healthiest diet ever. The foundation for your diet should be naturally nutrient-rich foods like fruits and vegetables, legumes, grains, and non-fatty dairy. Also, consider foods with high protein levels such as fish, nuts, soy, lean meat, and poultry.

A healthy life and proper diet always go hand in hand, especially for seniors. Most seniors always suffer from diseases caused by a lack of proper diet. Adults should check their diet constantly.

 

Sources:

1. https://aging.com/elderly-nutrition-101-10-foods-to-keep-you-healthy/

2. https://www.everydayhealth.com/senior-health/understanding/diet-and-aging-gaining-a-nutritional-edge.aspx

3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK51837/

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