Seniors
As we get older, our nutritional requirements begin to change and although the rules for a healthy balanced diet remain the same, our need for certain nutrients such as protein, calcium, iron, folic acid and vitamin D may increase.
Because we're usually less active than younger members of the family, as we get older we need fewer calories than we once did and may find our appetite dwindling.
With a proper diet and as much exercise as we can comfortably manage, however, there’s no reason why any of us shouldn’t stay healthy and active into our old age.
- Digestive disorders
- Good digestive health is as vital in our later years as it is at any other time of life. With a decrease in levels of exercise and the slow down in metabolism we all experience as we get older, eating properly and including enough fibre, fruit, vegetables and fluid will help keep the digestive system healthy and reduce discomfort.
- Eating for one
- There’s no doubt the pleasure of a good meal is doubled when it's shared and it's all too easy to give up on creative cuisine and healthy meals when you spend most of your time on your own. With a little thought though, you can still eat well and enjoy your food, even if it’s just dinner for one.
- Exercise and activity
- Half an hour’s physical activity, even if it’s just a brisk stroll, can contribute enormously to your general health and wellbeing, whatever your age. With its beneficial effects on the heart, circulation, joints, muscles, bones and even your overall outlook on life, you’re never too old to exercise.
- Food hygiene
- Older people are more susceptible to disease and illness and often take longer to recover. These common sense rules for handling, storing and cooking food will help reduce the risk of cross infection in the kitchen.
- Eating for a healthy heart
- Heart disease kills more people in the UK and ROI each year than any other illness. Stress, poor diet and growing obesity levels all contribute to its causes, but by eating properly and exercising regularly; you can cut down your chances of becoming a victim.
- Healthy snacking
- Snacking isn’t a bad habit. In fact, it can often be the most efficient way of getting the nutrients you need throughout the day, especially if you lose your appetite for the traditional ‘three meals a day’.
- Supplements
- Because of changes in your metabolism as you get older, you may find your bodies requirements of certain minerals and vitamins changes. By including more foods that are rich in particular nutrients or taking daily supplements to replace any you’re missing out on, you can make sure you still get all the nutrients you need.
- Weight management
- As we get older, our metabolism slows down. This, combined with a lack of exercise, means it’s all too easy to put on weight unless we watch what we eat and try and stay active. Sticking to a healthy weight won’t only keep you feeling fitter and more alert; it will also help reduce the risk of other ailments associated with old age too.
- Healthy eating on a budget
- Eating well doesn’t just make you healthier - it can also make you better off! Follow our tips and advice on eating properly and watching the pennies at the same time.