Having a healthy diet can reduce the risk of chronic illnesses and ensure a better quality of life. Chronic diseases like cardiovascular issues, high cholesterol, osteoporosis, diabetes, memory issues, strokes, visual problems and certain cancers are actually impacted by the diet that people eat. Due to this, it is important to eat a balanced diet that is rich in water, protein, vitamins, carbohydrate, minerals and fats. These essential components are necessary to provide cell's with the fuel they need to run.
Getting a Balanced Diet
As a rule, individuals should avoid saturated fats from animals because it can increase cholesterol levels and lead to clogged arteries. Instead, it is important to focus on getting fat from sources like nuts, seeds, fish and lean meats. Seniors should make sure to include plenty of fruits and vegetables in their daily diet because these foods are high in fiber and vitamins. Fiber is important because it helps to slow the processing of food in the body, so the nutrients have more time to be absorbed. At the same time, fiber binds with fat and cholesterol. This means that fat and cholesterol that have already been consumed are removed from the body. While the recommended dose is 25 grams of fiber a day, some individuals may need up to 38 grams of fiber in their daily diet.To ensure a healthy diet, seniors should avoid eating empty calories. While vegetables contain a high level of nutrients per calorie, junk food does not. Seniors should avoid eating foods that are low in nutrients. Foods to avoid include alcohol, soda, donuts, chips, cookies and other junk food. Ideally, an individual's daily calorie intake should be between 1,500 and 2,000 calories.
Exercise, Diet and Long-Term Health
To ensure the best level of health, seniors should exercise on a regular basis. Strength-bearing exercise helps to strengthen the bones and prevent osteoporosis. Meanwhile, aerobic activities boost heart health and increase weight management. Receiving the optimal amount of exercise each day can protect the body against heart disease, diabetes, depression, lung problems and muscle weakness. In addition, it can ensure better quality sleep and a more positive mood.
Dietary Needs Change With Aging
According to recent research, aging adults lose some of their ability to absorb nutrients as they get older. Individuals become less active and their metabolism slows. These two factors make it extremely important to eat a balanced diet. Seniors typically consume fewer calories due to their slower metabolism, and their bodies are less able to absorb the nutrients. Due to this, seniors must focus on eating nutrient-dense foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals. Otherwise, the individual may develop a nutrient deficiency or other health problems.Diet and exercise play a vital role in alleviating chronic illnesses and preventing future problems. Due to an inability to absorb food efficiently, it is vital for seniors to receive the optimal diet. Eating healthy can improve the physical, mental and emotional health of seniors if they are willing to change their diet.
