A big component of healthy aging is how well we are eating. With fast food joints on every corner and the convenience of getting fast food it may be difficult to eat healthy for some. Whether you are on your way to a book club or going to see your grandchild's sporting event if you find you must pull into a fast food restauraunt, consider ordering a salad with low fat dressing rather than a burger and fries for example. There are other tips that can help with planning meals. If you are cooking meals at home, consider these tips for nutritional healthy aging:
- Eat a diet that is low in saturated fats
- Eat 5 or more servings of fruit and vegetables each day
- Reduce salt to help prevent high blood pressure or water retention
- Consume more fiber rich foods to help prevent constipation
- Limit sugar and dry food
American Dietetic Association
http://www.eatright.org/cps/rde/xchg/ada/hs.xsl/home_4479_ENU_HTML.htm
Eric Tinsley
George Slater
Posted by: Jeff Grossnickle on Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Hey Natalie, Very nice! As I am quickly approaching the geriatric period of my life, I found this to be very interesting and helpful. I'm glad Stephanie told me about it. I totally agree about the diet. We just started a "meltdown" program through Iron Pit Gym. Responsible eating and exercise. I was not sure what you meant though about dry food. I assume that's about not getting dehydrated. Can you please elaborate? Thanks for all you do for the aging. Nice blog.
Posted by: Natalie on Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Hi Jeff! Thank you for checking out my blog. Good for you for starting the program at the Iron Pit, that's great. Yes, you are correct on dry foods - anything with a lot of sugar in it can be considered a dry food. Since those tend to make you more thirsty it could contribute to dehydration. Good luck with the exercise program!