Healthy Diet for Aging Adults

The cells in our bodies are in a constant process of breaking down as we age. The older we are, the more wear and tear on our cells. This process makes it vitally important to provide our cells with the resources they require for optimal maintenance and repair.

A healthy diet is the strongest ally our body has in the fight against disease and cell deterioration. Eating healthy foods makes it easier for our bodies to function better and longer and can impact the progression of many diseases and conditions.

Learning to eat a nutritious and healthy diet is not as difficult as it sounds and the rewards are abundant. Making simple changes in our diet can help us live longer, reduce the risk of many diseases, and give us a feeling of renewed energy.

The guidelines listed below will help you make intelligent and healthy choices in your diet and lifestyle.

-Eat a Well-Balanced Diet. Try to incorporate a variety of healthy foods into your diet every day. Fruits and vegetables (whole foods are best), moderate amounts of lean protein, and foods that are high in complex carbohydrates are the healthiest choices for your diet.

-ALWAYS eat in moderation. This is probably the most important advice you can receive. If your favorite foods are high in fat or sugar, do not avoid them. Simply eat them in moderation.

-Eat Regularly Spaced Meals. Never skip meals or completely eliminate certain foods. This will lead to out-of-control hunger that usually results in binge eating.

-Eat High-Antioxidant Foods. Foods that are high in antioxidants strengthen the ability of the body to fight diseases and keep cells healthy and constantly regenerating. Brightly colored fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and herbs are rich in antioxidants.

-Drink Water. Believe it or not, most people are dehydrated and do not even know it! Our bodies need water to operate at optimal capacity and function properly. If the body becomes dehydrated, the organs become damaged and result in degenerative diseases. Every organ in the body relies on water to work properly.

-Exercise Every Day. Regular exercise is necessary to maintain good health and better mobility. The best exercise that is the most accessible and beneficial is walking. Walking even 10-15 minutes per day can help control blood sugar, detoxify your body, and help to lose weight.

-Get Plenty Of Rest. Many people, as they get older, suffer from insomnia or other sleep problems. Getting good rest is essential, however, for physical and emotional health. Some tips to help you sleep better: never read, watch television, or eat in bed. Listen to soothing music or try some easy yoga movements for relaxation.

-Lower Your Stress Level. There is nothing that ages you more quickly than extreme amounts of stress. Avoid excessive amounts of caffeine that can increase your stress level. The same holds true for alcohol. Too much alcohol can mask the problem and increase stress levels. Learn how to say NO sometimes. Learn deep breathing exercises, massage or meditation.

-Take A Good Multivitamin. A good multivitamin will fill in any nutritional gaps that your diet is missing. There is an abundance of vitamins to choose from nowadays that address specific nutritional needs and age groups. Ask your doctor for suggestions if you are unsure about the choices.

-Have Regular Checkups. See your doctor for regular checkups and preventive services. Many diseases such as heart disease, cancer, high blood pressure, and diabetes can be discovered early and treated successfully.

Living a healthy lifestyle is a wise choice no matter what your age. However, making the extra effort to stay healthy as you age will decrease your chances of suffering through many debilitating diseases and increase your chances or enjoying a fuller, happier life.