Your nutritional needs tend to increase as you age because your body is in a degenerative mode. At an older age, growth of cells and tissues slows down while the rate of tissue repair goes high. This can get worse for seniors during summer when excess heat comes on and the rate of dehydration goes high which could cause loss of appetite. Nevertheless, proper food is important for the general well being of seniors. Below is the list of summer nutrition tips for present and future residents of Twin Rivers independent senior living Richardson,TX.
Tips for proper eating for seniors during summer
Keep in mind that healthy eating begins with you! It is important to provide your body with the right nutrients and also maintain a healthy weight through all seasons. Eating a healthy diet with organic fruits and vegetables will help you to stay active and independent during the summer season.
Keep your food refrigerated
Foods that are perishable such as raw salads or meat should not be kept at room temperature which is perfect for pathogen survival. Pathogens such as bacteria when consumed lead to food poisoning. However, the pathogens cannot survive in extremely cold conditions.
Consume perishable food in time
Once again, summer provides heat that is ideal for the survival of pathogens. This is why perishable food is likely to go bad fast during summer compared to other seasons. Consume such foods within the safety window to avoid food poisoning.
Clean your food
Fruits and vegetable are recommended during summer since most of them have antioxidants and have extra water to keep you hydrated. You have to wash them thoroughly under running water to get rid of dirt and bacteria before storing them in a refrigerator. Keep your hands clean as well.
Take plenty of water
This goes without saying. Staying on a diet with plenty of water will keep your body hydrated.
Understand your nutritional needs
You or your caregiver should be aware of your nutritional requirements based on your medical conditions or age. Such information can be inquired from your doctor.
What to eat and what to avoid this summer
- Avoid Caffeine: Dehydration is the greatest threat that you can face during summer. One of the ways in which you can reduce dehydration is by reducing your daily consumption of caffeine. Caffeine is known to deplete the body of fluid. You can replace coffee and tea with water or a sweet drink.
- Avoid sea foods: Sea foods have high quantities of salt and may make your body to be more susceptible to dehydration.
- Avoid unpasteurized dairy products, including soft cheeses
- Avoid uncooked foods such as fish, meat, poultry or seafood
- Avoid smoked meats or seafood
- Eat fresh fruits and vegetable: Fresh fruits and vegetables are generally nutritious and should definitely be included in your diet.
- Water melons are rich in water and will reduce dehydration.
- Blueberries, tomatoes and tart cherries are rich in antioxidants that are good for muscle health and reducing fatigue.
Generally, you have to understand that as you get older, your requirements for fluids, carbohydrates, minerals, proteins and vitamins change. A healthy diet promotes better immunity. It helps your body to be resistant to seasonal illness and alleviates chronic diseases. Therefore, ensure that you eat the right diet to stay healthy so as avoid frequent visits to the doctor.