Getting the right amount of nutrition can be an obstacle as you get older. With the increase of age, the number of calories you require starts to reduce. Every calorie you take must contain the right nutrition in order to maintain good health. There are few nutrients that older people require to stay healthy.
Vitamin B12
This vitamin is vital in creating red blood cells and DNA in order to maintain a healthy nerve function. If you get enough vitamin B12, you tend to overcome problems like not absorbing food well. In addition, older people must eat food that contains vitamin B12 from good sources like fish, meat, eggs and milk.
Calcium
This nutrient plays a lot of role in the human body especially when it comes to maintaining strong bones. Unfortunately speaking, when we grow old, our body needs more calcium. Calcium is very essential as it would affect your bone such as fractures if you do not gain it enough. With that, it is crucial to consume at least three servings of low-fat milk or even other dairy products.
Potassium
Beside calcium, older adults may consume potassium to keep their bones strong. This needed mineral is important for cells to function and it can lower the blood pressure and avoid kidney stones. By that, you can consume fruits and vegetables that contain a lot of potassium such as bananas and potatoes. On the other hand, if you feel like taking potassium supplements, it is crucial to seek advice from your doctor as too little and too much consumption may lead to danger to your health.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D would help the body to absorb calcium and maintain bone density. In older people, insufficient vitamin D may lead to a high risk of getting diseases. To avoid that, consume many foods containing vitamin D like cereals, milk and even yogurts. But then, it is seen that many doctors suggested that older people should consume vitamin D supplements as their skin becomes less efficient at producing the vitamin from sunlight as we get older. Before doing so, it is better to seek advice from any health experts.
Fiber
This nutrient would assist in promoting a much better digestion by moving foods through the digestive tract. With foods that contain a lot of fiber like whole grains and vegetables, it actually protects older people from heart disease. There are a lot of ways to consume it, especially by mixing up the fruits and vegetables and turning it into a good salad.
Omega- 3 Fats
Now this is different. These fats that are found in fish have very strong benefits that include lowering the symptoms in rheumatoid arthritis and avoiding the rapid process of vision reduction in elderly people. This is why older people should eat a lot of fish at least two servings in a week. Fishes like salmon, sardine and tuna have high omega-3 fats in it. Not to forget, there is even a supplement but do consult with any health experts before taking it.
In conclusion, elderly need to find a solution in order to maintain their health to an optimum level. With the sufficient nutrients and a healthy lifestyle, you definitely can enjoy a quality of life.