moving your loved one into a nursing home

Foods That Seniors Should Include In Their Diet

14 March 2016

Alisa Mantyla

If you have a loved one who lives alone or who is currently in an assisted living facility, it's important that they are getting the proper nutrition they need. Seniors may have different dietary needs than younger people, so it's essential that they are eating healthy meals each and every day. Here are a few foods that are especially important for elderly people to eat as part of a well-balanced diet.

Whole Grains

A diet rich in whole grains can give seniors the fiber they need to maintain a healthy heart and digestive system. Look for menus that include foods like oatmeal for breakfast to be sure your loved one is getting this important dietary staple. Whole grains can also lower cholesterol and limit their risk of things like stroke or heart disease.

Eggs And Egg Dishes

Whether they're scrambled, in an omelet, or sunny side up, eggs are very important to a healthy diet. This amazing food contains plenty of important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D which is necessary to help the bones absorb calcium. Vitamin D can also help to combat depression. Eggs are chock full of fiber and as older digestive systems have a more difficult time digesting meat, eggs make the perfect substitute.

Fruit

Fruit is great for anyone, and it's a good addition to any senior's diet. Fruit can provide a sweet taste without any high fructose corn syrup or other harmful sugars. Fruits like blueberries are loaded with antioxidants to help promote good eye health and they could also help to improve memory function when consumed on a regular basis. Apples are another good fruit for seniors since they contain high levels of natural fiber. Just be sure the apples are served in a way that won't harm dental health such as in applesauce or cooked form. 

Fish And Chicken

Fish and chicken are ideal meat choices and make a better option than pork or beef. Fish is full of healthy fats that can improve heart function. A serving of fish contains plenty of protein to help keep seniors' muscles strong. The same goes for chicken. This versatile meat can be prepared in many different ways so that seniors don't get bored with it, and it contains less fat than almost any other meat available. These essential foods can help to maintain senior's good health and provide them with the important nutrients that they need to stay strong and active.  Contact an assisted living community, like Cokato Charitable Trust - Cokato Manor, to find out menu offerings if you are considering these living arrangements.

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