Healthy Eating Tips For Active Adults  

Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet is important at any age, but especially for older adults. As we age, it is essential that our bodies receive proper nutrients to stay healthy, active, independent and equipped to manage chronic illnesses, like heart disease, diabetes, bone loss, high blood pressure and even some types of cancer. 

Here are some easy ways to improve your diet safely and effectively:

Stay hydrated

Since thirst can decrease with age, it is important that older adults drink small amounts of fluids throughout the day. In addition to water, other liquids such as tea, coffee, soup, milk and juice are also great ways to keep your body hydrated. Try to avoid drinks with a lot of sugar and salt unless your doctor suggests otherwise. Staying hydrated can improve digestion, keep joints limber and help you feel better overall. 

Eat a variety of nutrient-rich foods
According to the National Council on Aging, a balanced, nutrient-dense meal should consist of a lean protein, fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy. Regularly eating a variety of fresh, wholesome foods will ensure you are providing your body with the proper nutrients it needs to stay healthy and strong. 

Pay attention to nutrition labels

Nutritional fact labels tell you a lot about the foods you are putting in your body, specifically related to calories, sugars, fats and sodium. It is always best to talk to your doctor to understand which ingredients and nutrients you should limit or increase to optimize your diet. Generally, try to limit processed foods and foods with extra additives. Similarly, it is important to always check for expiration dates to avoid food-related illnesses. 

Dine with friends

Most things in life are more enjoyable in the company of others—and this includes mealtime! Consider hosting weekly dinner parties in your apartment with other neighbors, meet a friend for breakfast at The Bistro or enjoy dinner in The Reserve’s beautiful dining room. When you make mealtime a social event, you can help promote healthy, routine eating habits while enjoying meaningful encounters with neighbors and friends. 

At The Reserve, we take great pleasure in providing residents with high quality foods and services in the comfort of their home. Residents can enjoy a fresh and healthy meal, planned and prepared by our onsite culinary director.

Simplify meal planning

Not everyone loves grocery shopping and cooking. Fortunately, there are many resources and services available today that make meal preparation for active adults easier and healthier than ever before. For instance, most grocery stores today allow for online ordering with curbside pickup or delivery right to your door. Another way to simplify healthy eating is to create a meal plan every week. You are less likely to choose unhealthy options like fast food or a sugar-filled snack if you have healthy ingredients on hand.  

Bottom line: Being thoughtful about what you eat on a regular basis will result in more energy, a stronger body and an overall improved quality of life. Since everyone’s nutritional needs are different, always talk to your doctor first before making changes to your eating habits. Remember, healthy eating doesn’t have to be about dieting and giving up the foods you love. Rather, it should be all about enjoying fresh, tasty foods, wholesome ingredients and eating meals in the company of friends and family.