Foods That Seniors Should Eat

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Seniors tend to eat less food than younger people but they still have some specific nutritional requirements and foods that they should be eating more of. Here’s a list of foods that seniors should eat more of in their daily diet.
Water
As we age we become less thirsty. Seniors tend to not drink as much so they can be prone to dehydration. It’s critical that seniors get enough water in their daily diet and not just coffee or tea which can be dehydrating. Water helps with hydration and it can eliminate instances of constipation.
Fruits
Fruit is better for seniors than juice because juice tends to have too much concentrated sugar. Fruit such as berries, melons, apples, bananas, oranges and other fruit are great for seniors. These fruit are packed with vitmain C and dietary fiber which helps aid in digestion.
Vegetables
Seniors should eat plenty of vegetables as they are high in fiber, low calories and easier to digest than other foods. Aim for a wide variety of colors for ample nutrition and variety in the diet. Eating vegetables should be a staple of any senior diet.
Calcium Rich Foods
As seniors age they lose calcium so they need to eat more foods rich is calcium. This includes milk, cheese, broccoli, and almonds. Often a calcium supplement is needed as many seniors can’t digest milk well.
Grains
Whole grains are ideal for a senior’s diet and they should replace refine white grain products. Aim for whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta, brown rice, and oatmeal. Whole grains are rich in nutrients and they contain dietary fiber for good digestion.
Protein
Seniors should eat lean cuts of meat such as chicken breasts and get more fish as they contain heart healthy Omega-3 fatty acids.
Foods High in Vitamin B 12
Vitamin B 12 is critical to the diet but we produce less gastric juice in our stomachs as we age so we can’t absorb it as well. Foods high in B 12 are recommended and these include shellfish, beef, almonds, turkey and ready to eat cereals.  12 injections can be given by a doctor if B12 is low in the senior and this lasts for several months. It can be difficult to get enough of this vitmain from foods. Supplements of B 12 can also help a senior get enough.
Vitamin D
Seniors need vitmain D but we don’t absorb as much as we age from the sun. Foods that are fortified in vitamin D such as milk are recommended. Other sources include fish such a as salmon.
A Varied Diet
Seniors can enjoy many foods but they need a varied diet. Try to avoid food high in sodium as this contributes to high blood pressure. Seniors should avoid fatty and fried foods as well as foods with hidden sugar. Add more water to the diet as well as fiber rich foods like fruits and vegetables. Seniors can enjoy food with a few simple modifications to their diet plan. Consult a nutritionist and a doctor for specific advice about conditions and medical advice.

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