Healthy Pantry Staples for Seniors: Essential Nutritious Snacks
According to a recent study, approximately 90 percent of Americans report eating one or more snacks at least once daily. Snacking can be habit-forming. Therefore, all snackers, including older adults, should be selective about which foods they choose to eat for a snack. For seniors, snacking can be an easy way to get vital nutrients their bodies need to remain healthy and strong, especially if they struggle with low appetite.
February is National Snack Food Month. Visiting Angels Beaver Dam encourages every senior to examine their pantries and take notice of their snacking habits. By choosing healthier foods for snacks, seniors can improve their health, boost their immune systems, and curve cravings. Below are four essential nutritious snacks that should become pantry staples for seniors.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables are always the best choices when it comes to snacking. Fresh fruits like apples, bananas, blueberries, strawberries, and oranges are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Carrot sticks, cucumbers, sliced peppers, and raw broccoli provide seniors with a mix of fiber, protein, and vitamins, especially when dipped in hummus. Pick up a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables at your local grocery store each week so that you always have a healthy snack on hand.
Whole Grain Crackers With Nut Butter
Another essential nutritious snack is whole grain crackers topped with nut butter. Crackers made with whole grains contain more fiber and nutrients than those made with refined grains. Fiber is an essential nutrient because it aids with digestion and helps us feel full for longer periods. Nut butters are rich in protein, healthy fats, and various vitamins and minerals.
Energy Bars
An easy go-to snack for seniors is energy bars. Energy bars are convenient and portable, making them the perfect snack to tuck into a purse or pocket. They can be consumed anywhere and can help give seniors a boost before or after an active older adult fitness class at the YMCA of Dodge County. Seniors must make healthy choices when selecting energy bars because many on the market contain added sugars. Look for energy bars made with whole food ingredients, such as nuts, seeds, or dried fruits, and opt for minimal added sugars.
Pre-Portioned Nut Packs
The last essential nutritious snack seniors should keep stocked is pre-portioned nut packs. Nuts are an excellent snack choice due to their extended shelf life and no need for refrigeration. They offer a perfect blend of healthy fats, fiber, and protein, while surprisingly keeping seniors full. Regularly consuming nuts can help to lower “bad” cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Although nuts are healthy, they are also high in calories and can lead to digestive discomfort if too many are consumed. Choosing pre-portioned nut packs ensures seniors eat the perfect amount.
Local Resources for Healthy Pantry Staples
If you’re a senior who needs help keeping a stocked pantry with nutritious foods and snacks, the following organizations may be able to assist.
The Watermark Senior Center — offers a hot meal program five days a week. Meals can be delivered to homebound seniors within the city limits.
Dodge County Department of Health and Human Services — offers a variety of food assistance programs for seniors, including the Emergency Food Assistance Program and the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program.
Beaver Dam Community Food Pantry — provides free groceries to anyone in need, including seniors. They are open on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Aging and Disability Resource Center— offers several senior dining programs, including home-delivered meals and dining centers where seniors can enjoy a meal in person with other seniors.
Another local resource for seniors is Visiting Angels Beaver Dam. We’re here to help seniors make healthier choices in their snacking habits. One of the ways we do this is by assisting our clients with meal planning and preparation. Our compassionate caregivers can help you create a healthy menu that includes nutritious snacks. They can then help you with grocery shopping or do the shopping for you. Afterward, they can work alongside you in your kitchen so that your snacks and meals are ready for you to eat. We are a trusted agency that has been providing senior living assistance for nearly 20 years. To learn more about our senior living plans that can help seniors age in place, please contact us by calling 920-821-1111.