Making healthy food choices is not always easy, especially when the more convenient options tend to be processed and fast food. There are many temptations out there that can sway your diet. However, getting older does not mean you should throw your nutrition out the window.  

Eating a nutritious, balanced diet can make a difference as you age. It can improve how you feel mentally and physically and can even reduce your risk of developing serious diseases, like heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.  

Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Diet

Not sure how to maintain a healthy diet? According to MyPlate, try to focus on the following:1  

  • Eat seafood, dairy or fortified soy alternatives, beans, peas, and lentils to help maintain muscle mass.  
  • Add more fruits and vegetables to your meals and snacks. Fruits and vegetables are full of vitamins and fiber, which can help make you fuller, while providing nutrients.  
  • Get more fiber by eating whole grains instead of regular sandwich bread.  
  • Switch to low-fat alternatives for dairy, like milk, yogurt and cheese.
  • Drink lots of water throughout the day to help you stay hydrated.  
  • Be mindful of foods with added sugar, and instead have fruit for a sweet snack craving.
  • Talk to your primary care provider about any dietary supplements, like vitamins, you may need based on your bloodwork and overall health.
Meal planning for the week can also help you stay on track and avoid last-minute takeout food options. An occasional meal out is part of life, but make sure you are cooking at home more than you go out. You can control the portion sizes, ingredients and mode of cooking (baking versus frying) in your own meals. 

Test Your Nutrition Knowledge

MyPlate is full of helpful resources that can get your nutrition on the right track. Try taking their “What’s on your plate?” quiz to determine if you are making every bite count.  

Take the Quiz

Schedule Your Annual Preventive Care Visit

Your primary care provider is an excellent resource and should be consulted before you make any dietary changes. Be sure to keep up with annual preventive care visits, which give you the opportunity to discuss things regarding your overall health, like your diet. Your provider can recommend a nutrition plan, supplements or vitamins that may help your overall wellbeing. They can also refer you to see a specialist, like a dietitian or nutritionist, both of which are completely covered under the Compass Rose Health Plan. Having an open dialogue with your provider is the most important way to stay healthy.

Need More Help Managing Your Nutrition?

Our Compass Rose Aging Well Resource Coordinator can help you understand your dietary needs and stay on track with your exercise goals.

Learn More About Aging Well

Source: 

1 My Plate. https://www.myplate.gov/life-stages/older-adults#:~:text=Unique%20Needs%20of%20People%20Ages%2060%2B&text=Choose%20foods%20with%20little%20to,dietary%20fiber%2C%20and%20vitamin%20B12.