Why is maintaining a healthy weight important?  

You might notice changes in the makeup of your body as you age.  You may eliminate muscle mass, which may increase frailty.  Fewer calories may burn, especially if you aren't very active.  You might want to eat fewer calories than you did when you were younger to prevent weight gain.  This means that you have to make healthier choices when it comes to what food you eat.  So, you have to eat foods that are high in nutrients or are "nutrient dense."Maintaining a wholesome weight is crucial, but what is healthy varies from person to person.  Consult your healthcare provider about what is a healthy weight for you. As we age being over or under weight is of concern and may be associated with not having enough to eat,  having a disorder or an illness, or not eating foods that are nutrient rich. Many people stop cooking as much and start eating more prepared foods which may be higher in calories and have less nutritients. Eating sensibly and being active to maintain muscle and bone may help you maintain a healthy weight and strength as you get older.What is a healthy weight for me?  

Two measures if You're at a healthy weight for seeing are those:

    Your body mass index (BMI) is a measure of weight in relation to height.  While a BMI score of 18.5 to 24.9 generally indicates a healthy weight for adults, the BMI is restricted in how well it gauges body fat in older people or people who have lost muscle.  

    Measuring around your waist may let you know in the event that you carry more fat.  A waist circumference of more than 35 inches for women or 40 inches for men signifies increased risk for any number of health problems.  

 

Check with your health care provider if you have concerns about weight loss.

 

Healthy Eating

What types of foods do I want to eat as I age?  

Your body begins to want fewer calories when you get old, however, you need as many nutrients.  Nutrient-dense foods pack plenty of minerals, vitamins, and nutrients that your body requires into a small amount of calories. Eat more of those nutrient-dense foods and should eat from the rainbow of foods rich in nutrients, such as these:

 

    Fruits and vegetables (select a range of types with vibrant colors)

    whole grains, like oatmeal, whole-wheat bread, and brown rice

    fat-free or low-fat dairy and cheese, or soy or rice milk That's fortified with vitamin D and calcium

    fish, lean meats, poultry, and eggs

    legumes, nuts, and seeds

 

Some foods have calories but provide several nutrients.  Older adults should consume less of the below foods:

 

Sugar-sweetened drinks and desserts that have added sugars

 

White bread, rice, and pasta made from processed grains.

 

Here at A Caring Hand for Mom (and Dad) we try to provide you with information you can use to stay healthy.  When the time comes that you are considering moving to a retirement community or assisted living community call us.  We are licensed healthcare professionals that are happy to help you and we will never caharge you for our services.  So don't delay call us today 800-881-7706.