Healthy Eating Tips for Older Adults
May 16, 2023 | Kathy Ingulsrud
Eating healthy is important at all ages, though it is essential to maintain optimal health and wellness as we age. A healthy diet can help reduce the risk of illnesses and chronic diseases. By eating a balanced diet, your body will receive the minerals, vitamins and nutrients you need to thrive in your senior years!
Consistency
When it comes to healthy eating habits, one of the most important things to do is to keep it consistent! Eating healthy one day but poorly most days will not lead to overall health. A good rule of thumb that many doctors advocate is the 80/20 rule. This approach to healthy eating implements the notion of eating nutritious foods 80% of the time and enjoying more sweet, savory, or higher-caloric foods 20% of the time. This concept works well for many individuals as the consistency of eating healthy most of the time leads to establishing a routine and allows the body to benefit from healthful foods. Additionally, allowing yourself to indulge occasionally prevents overeating and overindulging in unhealthy foods.
Related Read: Nutrition Tips for Older Adults
Variety
Meal planning and meal prepping have become quite popular in the past few years, and these tactics can help individuals pursue a healthy lifestyle. Just be sure to incorporate enough variety of foods in your diet; doing so will help you to consume various nutrients to maintain adequate levels of vitamins and minerals.
Did you know that some Medicare plans may even have extra benefits to promote healthy eating, such as an allowance or discounts on healthy foods at the grocery store?
Get Expert Advice
As we age, our bodies change, with it, the nutrient requirements it needs to thrive. Conversations with your doctor can help you determine a baseline for the amount of protein, carbohydrates and healthy fats needed to keep your body running efficiently. Your doctor may even refer you to a registered dietitian nutritionist to help you create a sustainable plan tailored to your unique needs; this can be especially helpful if you do have an existing disease such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
Read More: 7 Ways Seniors Can Stay Sharp: Improve Mental Well-Being, Memory and Focus
Stay Hydrated
What you drink is just as important as what you eat! Be sure to drink water daily and stay well hydrated. Staying hydrated helps internal organs function properly. Drinking enough water can also help maintain elasticity in your skin and improve cognitive function by supporting mood and energy levels.
These are some ways you can practice healthy eating habits in your life. Your Medicare plan may even offer additional opportunities for maintaining a healthy lifestyle! Contact Twin City Underwriters for more information on what is covered under your specific plan.
Choosing a Medicare plan can be difficult. Twin City Underwriters helps Medicare recipients in Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa and Florida find the Medicare plan that meets their unique needs. Schedule a one-on-one meeting with one of our Medicare insurance brokers to get your questions answered!
Do you need help with Medicare, insurance and health plans? Explore your options with Allina Health Aetna, Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Minnesota, Medica and UCare. We work with you to find the best plan for your needs and budget. Contact us today to get started.
