Good Eating is Good Medicine

Two concepts have been around for ages:  “good eating is good medicine” and “you are what you eat.”  While both are timeless clichés, they underscore a common concept:   it is vitally important to our good health that we consume healthy foods – no matter our age.   Studies undertaken over the years have indicated that certain foods may fight the free radicals of cancer.  Our food choices can help us to sustain muscle tone and bone density.  They may even improve our moods.

While good eating is not to be perceived as a cure, nutritious diets certainly contribute to our overall good health and longevity.  Because of the natural changes our bodies undergo through aging, good nutrition becomes more important for seniors to foster healthy, independent living.  By eating well and choosing the right foods packed with the most nutritional benefits, seniors (and the rest of us) can increase their chances of aging gracefully…every step of the way.

As a leader in the senior home care industry, Comfort Keepers® knows that for seniors good nutrition does not depend solely on knowing what foods to eat.  Many seniors living alone find it hard to cook for one or are lonely during meals, which can emotionally curb appetites,  and in turn may lead to malnutrition.  Others may face financial difficulties and are tempted to purchase food with low nutritional value that costs less than some healthy choices.

With these thoughts in mind, Comfort Keepers launched a worldwide initiative called STOP Senior Hunger.  Designed specifically for seniors, this initiative provides education, direction and tips for seniors to avoid the hazards of becoming malnourished. “Eating well as you age is easier than you think,” said Jim Booth, CEO of CK Franchising, Inc., the home office of Comfort Keepers.  “Some of these common sense choices may help you eat better and smarter with age.”

• Turn planning and preparation into a fun experience.  Involve family or friends and try new recipes.
• Cook once, eat twice.  Prepare enough to save the leftovers for another meal.
• Focus on foods that provide high-quality nutrition.  Choose complex carbohydrates over simple sugars; whole grains over processed white flours and refined sugars.
• Include lower-cost, high-quality protein.  Good examples include low-fat ground meat, eggs, beans, tofu, tuna, milk, cottage cheese, cheese and yogurt.
• Purchase lower-cost store brands if you like them.  Use coupons and look for grocery store specials on favorite foods.
• Take advantage of senior menus and discounts when eating out.  Lunch portions are often not only smaller, but cost less, too.
• Eat the right snacks and include raw fruits and vegetables.  Small, healthy snacks are essential for people with small appetites.  Meal replacement drinks offer complete nutrition for those who have trouble maintaining or gaining weight.
• Encourage exercise. Daily exercise can increase appetites, alleviate depression, and help facilitate healthy bone and muscle strength.

These are just a few ideas that may help seniors maintain happy, healthy, independent lifestyles.  If you desire additional detailed information, please visit our websites at www.stopseniorhunger.com, www.interactivecaregiving.com  or contact any local Comfort Keepers franchise.