Eating Well as You Grow Older

Below are some healthy eating plan tips you can implement to enhance your nutritious intake. These suggestions can help you feel more energized, and are applicable to any size household!

Talk to your doctor. Ask your doctor if a medical condition or medication is affecting your appetite or weight. Addressing untreated medical conditions, or adjusting medications, dosages, or medication schedules may help.

Pack in the nutrients. Prioritize protein to preserve lean body mass and calcium to prevent bone loss and fractures. Good sources of protein include poultry, fish, eggs and beans; dairy products, almonds, and leafy greens are good sources of calcium.

Enhance flavor. Spices and other ingredients such as garlic, olive oil, marinades, onions, and ginger can enhance taste and enjoyment. If you like a zing, you can add citrus or hot peppers.

Snack wisely. Eating a small meal or snack every two to three hours can help improve your appetite. Be sure to choose healthy snacks, including fresh fruits and vegetables, hummus, nuts, yogurt, oatmeal, and cottage cheese.

Find opportunities to socialize. Local volunteer opportunities or senior centers can offer social occasions that allow you to enjoy meals with others. Assisted or independent living communities also offer many opportunities to socialize—and the best part is that trained, talented, knowledgeable culinary professionals do the cooking for you.

Stay hydrated. Drink six to eight glasses of liquid a day, preferably water. Water helps your skin, hair, kidneys, brain, and spinal cord stay healthy. It’s also essential for digestion. You can add citrus to your water or opt for tea or low-fat soup, but limit your intake of alcohol, coffee and soda.

These tips can help you eat well and look forward to your meals.

For more information, please contact:

Newton Village

110 N. 5th Avenue W

Newton, Iowa 50208

Ph: 641-792-0115

www.newtonvillage.org