Tips for Healthy Boomer Eating

Guest Blogger Gloria Troyer:

Eating healthy when you are a boomer is particularly important. When we age our appetite decreases and our nutritional needs change. Even our sense of taste or smell can be altered. Older adults don’t need as many calories per day. They must be diligent, though, to make sure that they are getting enough nutrients.


Research has shown that people over 50 need more calcium, vitamin D and vitamin B6. Bone care is extremely important. The following tips will help keep you on track to maximize the health benefits from the foods that you eat:

Vegetables and Fruit
Make sure that you choose more vegetables and fruits. Foods that have a brighter color have more nutrients. Be adventuresome and try something you have never eaten before. You might find a new favorite.

Milk and Alternatives
Calcium and vitamin D are very important for bone health. Dairy and dairy products are ideal if you do not have an allergy, food sensitivity or personal belief regarding animal foodstuffs. There are many alternatives made from soy or almonds. Find products that you like. Make sure that you check their sugar content and that they are fortified with vitamin D and other vitamins.

Meat and Alternatives
If you eat meat, choose leaner cuts and include poultry and fish. Consider adding more beans, lentils and dried peas into your day to day meal plan.

Grains
The best choice for energy and fiber are whole grains and enriched grain products. Check with a nutritionist, dietician or your family doctor to find out what and how much you need to eat from a dietary perspective. Reduced activity and extra servings of grains can lead to weight gain.

A good place to check for valuable information related to food and aging is at Canada’s Food Guide http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/food-guide-aliment/index-eng.php and USDA’s My Plate http://www.choosemyplate.gov/ . Both sites offer valuable information regarding the dietary needs of boomers.

Gloria Troyer is an award winning freelance writer, broadcaster and author. Her writing career has branched out into many areas. She is keenly interested in the education of elementary students especially when it comes to food and diet. She also writes about health issues. She is a member of the Professional Writers Association of Canada. You can read more about her at www.writers.ca or http://tempteverypalate.blogspot.com/