Eating well is essential for senior health. National Nutrition Month is the perfect time to focus on ways to improve your diet, whether you’re recovering from a hospital stay or living with chronic health conditions. Here are seven tips to help you make the most of your meals:
- Tweak your recipes to meet your needs. If you’ve been prescribed a special diet, you don’t have to give up your favorite dishes. Minor changes to ingredients and preparation can make them work for you.
- Experiment with herbs and spices instead of salt. If you’re on a low-sodium diet, you can retrain your taste buds to appreciate the flavors of different herbs and spices. A splash of lemon juice can also add a lot of flavor.
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Eating healthy snacks can help you stay on track. Listen to your body and eat when you’re hungry, not just when it’s time for a meal.
- Have your medications reviewed. Some drugs can suppress your appetite, while others can change the way foods taste. If you’re experiencing changes in your appetite, talk to your doctor.
- Get more exercise. Physical activity can stimulate your appetite and also help with depression, which can suppress appetite.
- Dine with friends and family. Eating alone can lead to a less healthy diet. Enjoying meals and snacks with others can make them more enjoyable and help you eat more.
- Consider home care. Trained caregivers can help with meal planning, grocery shopping, and companionship while you enjoy delicious meals and snacks they prepare.
