National Nutrition Month for Seniors

March is National Nutrition Month, it’s a time for seniors to celebrate the vital role food plays in our bodies. It’s important to bring awareness to making mindful food choices and develop better eating habits. Making a change in your diet may seem intimidating, but we have some helpful tips to lead you on a healthy path.

Focus On Variety

Colorful foods are one of the best sources of nutrients. When choosing your meals try to make your plate look like a rainbow. Eating a balanced variety of foods ensures you get all the necessary vitamins and minerals your body needs. Simple changes can go a long way when developing healthy eating habits. It can be easy to have the same meals every week, but don’t be afraid to try new foods. You never know what new foods you’ll discover you like while achieving your goal of eating a healthy, balanced meal. 

A balanced meal should include:

  • Lean proteins – such as lean meats, seafood, and beans.
  • Fruits and vegetables – add an assortment of colorful fruits and vegetables.
  • Whole Grains – try adding brown rice or whole wheat pasta instead of white rice and pasta.
  • Low-Fat Dairy – or you can try something new and opt for a dairy free alternative

Stay Hydrated

Seniors are more at risk for dehydration because your sense of thirst may decline. Being dehydrated can cause UTI’s, confusion, and other serious problems. Drinking tea and coffee in excess can lead to dehydration so try to limit your consumption. Try to get creative when it comes to staying hydrated. You can freeze grapes for a sweet treat when it gets hot out. Try infusing your water with fruit for a refreshing drink and make drinking water fun. You can also try eating more vegetables with a high water content such as cucumbers, celery, and lettuce.

If you’d like to learn more about eating healthy and some fun recipe ideas, check out https://www.myplate.gov/ there are plenty of resources for you to explore. If you’d like some Heart Health tips check out our blog Heart Health Tips For Seniors.