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The old saying that you are what you eat, applies to everyone. For the elderly, the food that is being consumed needs to be healthy in order to ensure they are getting the vitamins and minerals that they need to thrive. There are several food types that the elderly need to focus on, in order to provide them with a diet that is going to help them to feel better and prevent the sudden onset of preventable illness and disease. Though a diet for the elderly is meant to eat the same basic food types as everyone else, there are specifications of foods that they should avoid within these categories of foods.
Food Type #1: Meats
Everyone needs meats in order to ensure that they are getting their protein intake. However, for the elderly, it’s vital that they consume regular portions of eat meats like fish and chicken, for the development of bone strength and general fitness. Red meats as this can be harder to digest and lead to issues, so smaller doses can help. They will want to avoid eating fatty pieces of these meats, and instead opt for lean cuts and methods for preparation that are going to reduce the fat.
Food Type #2: Vegetables
Elderly men and women, especially those under care in nursing homes, will want to stay away from too many starchy vegetables such as white potatoes, green peas and corn. Instead, a healthier option can be a greater emphasis on green leafy vegetables, along with beans such as chickpeas, lima beans and soybeans to assist the immune system and provide strength of everyday activities.
Food Type #3: Fruits
Fruits can be a great snack food, and can hit a sweet tooth issue for those who crave sugar but can’t risk tinkering with blood sugar levels because of their state of health. Some examples of fruit to eat to keep the system fighting fit and free of infection include:
- Peaches
- Plumbs
- Cantaloupe
- Watermelon
- Strawberries
- Grapes
- Grapefruit
Be aware of citrus fruits, as this can cause a person to feel as though they have indigestion. Therefore, pay attention to your own body to know what to eat.
Food Type #4: Dairy
Diary is a food type that not enough adults get into their diet. However, for seniors, it is important that they are aware of the choice of dairy products that are low fat or fat free to take in the goodness without the risk of putting on fat. A few examples of safe dairy products include:
- Low fat yogourt
- Soy milk that is calcium fortified
- Cottage cheese that is low fat
- Cheeses such as cheddar, parmesan, swiss or mozzarella
Food Type #5: Grains
Grains that are not considered whole are doing little for your body in terms of health. Few examples of whole grains are:
- English muffins
- Corn tortilla
- Slice of whole wheat bread
- Flaked cereal
- Rice or pasta
You will want to eat these grains with the other food types on this list to ensure that you have a well-balanced meal.
At First Care Nursing Homes in Ireland, men and women residents are provided with substantial meals to ensure their health is always a top priority. Combined with special attention and a comfortable living environment, a diet can assist in a happier lifestyle.
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