Sterling Care Offers Nutrition Tips During National Nutrition Month
As we age, we become more at risk for malnutrition. Experts estimate that as many as one in four older
Americans suffer from poor nutrition. The reasons range from higher rates of chronic diseases, which can diminish one’s appetite, to changing taste buds, to living alone and losing interest in cooking.
Whatever the cause, the effects of malnutrition can be costly. Studies have shown that older Americans who are malnourished see their doctors more often and have more visits to the emergency room and hospitals. Additionally, their hospital stays last nearly twice as long, increasing the cost of their stay by thousands of dollars. Because poverty is another cause of malnutrition, this creates a vicious circle.
That’s why Sterling Care is providing this list of foods your body needs to stay healthy as you age:
- Fruits – Variety is key here. Enjoy berries, citrus, apples, bananas, and even avocados to get the full range of nutrients.
- Vegetables – Here, you’re looking for lots of color. Dark, leafy greens such as kale and spinach, purple cabbage, red beets, and orange peppers and carrots will provide a variety of healthy choices.
- Whole grains – Barley, oatmeal and whole grain bread and crackers provide lots of fiber while retaining most their nutrients.
- Calcium – Older adults need about 1,200 milligrams of calcium a day, which is critical for maintaining bone health. But you needn’t rely solely on dairy products to get it. Dark leafy greens, broccoli, almonds, white beans and sardines are all excellent sources of this mineral.
- Protein – Adults older than 50 need about 1 to 1.5 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. For a person weighing 150 pounds, this would translate to 102 grams of high-quality protein. To get the most nutrition for your proteins, avoid processed meats and go with fresh fish, chicken, eggs, and even red meat on occasion. Vegetarians can go with beans, nuts, and seeds.
As a company dedicated to the health and well-being of seniors, we recognize the importance of nutrition in maintaining optimum health. Older Americans are at greater risk for malnutrition and we’re dedicated to helping ensure seniors have the resources they need to eat well.
