VISITING ANGELS ATLANTA EAST, GA 404-358-5877
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Basic Nutrition for Older Adults

Basic Nutrition for Older Adults

You’ve likely heard about the importance of a healthy diet for most of your life. But what is a healthy diet? And how do you know if you’re getting the proper nutrition for your body? March is National Nutrition Month, making it a perfect time to learn about good nutrition and easy ways to incorporate more vital nutrients into your diet. 

What is good nutrition, and why is it important?

What you eat affects how your body functions. The body needs various vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to work correctly. Some of what the body needs, it can produce itself, such as cholesterol. But other nutrients need to come from food. A well-balanced diet is about including all the proper vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients so your body can stay healthy.

Your nutritional needs change with age. As you age, some nutrients, such as calcium and fiber, may become more critical than when you were older. Before completely overhauling your diet, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian about your nutritional needs. 

Vital nutrients for older adults

Everyone’s nutritional needs are different, but a few common nutrients that older adults typically need more of include protein, B vitamins, fluids, calcium, and fiber. 

  • Protein helps prevent lean muscle mass loss. You can incorporate more protein into your diet through seafood, beans, and lentils. 
  • B vitamins, specifically B12, are needed for red blood cell formation, nerve function, and cell metabolism. Not enough B12 can lead to anemia, muscle weakness, nerve damage, and intestinal issues. Fortified cereals and many types of fish, like salmon and trout, are good sources of B12.
  • Dehydration concerns many older adults, so ensuring you get enough fluids throughout the day is essential. Drink water throughout the day and limit caffeine and alcohol intake to ensure your body stays hydrated. 
  • Bone density changes with age, so getting enough calcium in your diet is essential. Good sources of calcium include yogurts, cheese, and plant-based milk. 
  • Fiber regulates the body’s sugar and helps maintain a healthy blood sugar level. You can get more fiber into your diet through whole grains, legumes, and nuts. 

If you’re concerned you’re not getting enough of these vitamins and minerals from your diet alone, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian before taking supplements. Speaking with a professional about your diet is essential if you’re living with a health condition such as heart disease or diabetes. These professionals can help you understand what your body needs and tell you if you’re truly deficient in something. 

How can Visiting Angels help?

Grocery shopping, meal preparation, and cooking can take much time and energy. But the good news is, you don’t have to do it alone. If you need help picking up groceries, preparing meals, or cooking, the team at Visiting Angels can help. Our professional caregivers love lending a hand to clients in the kitchen and are also available to help with other nonmedical tasks like light housekeeping, personal grooming, and mobility assistance. 

Our Atlanta East office works with seniors in Atlanta, Buckhead, Decatur, Vinings, and the surrounding communities in Georgia. If you’d like to learn more about our services or want to schedule a complimentary consultation, message us or call 404-358-5877.

Serving Atlanta, Buckhead, Decatur, Vinings, GA and the Surrounding Communities

Visiting Angels ATLANTA EAST, GA
309 E Paces Ferry Rd NE #400
Atlanta, GA 30305
Phone: 404-358-5877
Fax: 404-816-2539

Serving Atlanta, Buckhead, Decatur, Vinings, GA and the Surrounding Communities

Visiting Angels ATLANTA EAST, GA
309 E Paces Ferry Rd NE #400
Atlanta, GA 30305
Phone: 404-358-5877
Fax: 404-816-2539