Understanding Nutrition

Malnutrition is a common concern among older adults in the United States. Being malnourished means you’re not getting the proper nutrients you need from your diet to sustain a healthy quality of life. Understanding the basics of nutrition can help you better nourish yourself and combat the concerns often caused by a poor diet.

What Is Nutrition?

Nutrition is how your body uses food to function. At the center of nutrition is your diet. A healthy diet should encompass all the nutrients your body needs to support itself. A healthy diet also supports your overall health and reduces your risk for chronic conditions.

Nutrition Considerations For Seniors

Everyone’s nutritional needs can vary, but in general, you want to have well-balanced meals that include a healthy mix of protein, carbs, and fat. You also want to ensure you’re getting enough vitamins, minerals, and water for a nutrient-rich diet.

Protein is necessary for building muscles, tissue, and cells. It’s also important for a healthy immune system.
Carbs are your body’s primary source of energy. The three main carbs are starches (breads and potatoes), sugars (fruits), and fiber (vegetables and beans).
Fat has a negative connotation, but you do want fat in your diet, primarily from meats or dairy, to store energy and support strong cells.
Vitamins help regulate your body’s natural functions and support various organs.
Minerals also help regulate the body and contribute to cellular function and healthy body tissue.
Water transports all necessary nutrients throughout the body and keeps you hydrated. Your nutrition needs change with age. They may also change depending on health concerns such as heart disease or diabetes. As you age, consider the following nutritional needs.
Calcium: Many seniors experience lower calcium levels as they age. Calcium is a mineral necessary for strong bones.

If you have a health condition that affects your nutrition needs, always be sure to talk with a registered dietitian to ensure your diet is meeting your nutritional needs.

Meal Prepping Tips For Seniors

The World Health Organization recommends various measures of nutrients for people to aim to eat each day. Unless a nutritionist has told you to measure your nutrients, you can focus less on the specific amounts of nutrients and more on eating consistent, well-balanced meals throughout the day. Consider these tips for building a well-balanced meal.

Center your meals around protein, carbs, and fats. Your protein and fat is generally going to come from your meat source, whether that’s chicken, fish, or beef. Your carbs can primarily come from sides, such as vegetables and bread.
Try to eat fresh, whole foods whenever possible. Frozen dinners and fast-food are convenient, but you want to try and eat fresh produce, lean meats, and whole grains as often as you can.
Consider what you’re drinking. What you drink contains nutrients just like the foods you eat. Natural juices, milks, and smoothies are all great ways to get added nutrients into your diet.

How Can Visiting Angels Help?

Visiting Angels is dedicated to helping seniors lead healthy lives so they can age gracefully and enjoy a quality life. Part of healthy aging includes ensuring clients have access to nutritious meals.

Our caregivers understand the challenges of preparing and cooking as you age. Caregivers are available to help you with personal care needs such as grocery shopping, prep meals, and cooking so you can enjoy the nutritious foods you deserve, regardless of your confidence in the kitchen.

In addition to kitchen assistance, our caregivers can assist with light housekeeping, medication reminders, mobility, personal grooming, and other non-medical tasks. Contact our Prince William County office to learn more about how our at-home care services can improve your independence and ensure you live safely and comfortably at home.