For seniors, getting proper nutrition is one of the most critical things that can be done to maintain health. Obstacles like reduced appetite, difficulty preparing meals, and easy availability of unhealthy choices can all contribute to problems like malnutrition that are sadly common among seniors. Unhealthy foods can not only contribute to chronic conditions, but also compromise a healthy, happy future and enjoyment of the twilight years.
Fast food is ultra-processed food, and almost always high in fat, salt, and sugar. For seniors, it’s often cited as one of the easiest foods to taste, given that the aging process can decrease the number of taste buds. While the occasional treat or quick meal is certainly okay, a diet based around fast food can cause a lot of health issues, such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, and others.
Another thing to limit or avoid is alcohol. As we age, we process alcohol differently in our bodies, losing the tolerance we may have had in our youth. Our metabolisms slow and our body mass drops, which makes the effects of alcohol more pronounced. Alcohol can also disrupt sleep, worsen diabetes, and the impairment of intoxication can lead to slips and falls.
Most Americans have too much salt in their diets to begin with, which is a big problem. Having large amounts of salt in the diet can greatly affect your overall health, raising blood pressure which can increase your risk of stroke or heart attack. Avoid processed snack foods like chips or canned nuts, which are invariably high in sodium.