Unfortunately, turning back time is not possible but we can still try and maintain a healthy mind and body for as long as possible!
One of the best ways to stop aging in its tracks is a healthy diet and exercise.
If you’re over the age of 50 and are trying to build some great habits, here is some advice from Clinical Dietitian, Media Spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and Owner of Florida Nutrition Group, Jessica Sylvester, who talked to EatThis and shared her knowledge.
First of all, it’s important to remember that all the recommendations on this list are meant for those who are mostly healthy, with no chronic conditions.
Sylvester stressed that dietary advice in such cases needs to be unique to the person depending on their condition so as not to make things worse in any way.
With that being said, if you know you’ve been diagnosed with a chronic medical condition, make sure to consult a medical specialist before making any dietary changes.
Other than that, here are the best eating habits you should develop in your later years:
- Take Vitamin D and Calcium Supplements
Sylvester explains that “As we age, our bones begin to leach calcium and we become more susceptible to falls. Sometimes, falls are a result of bone frailty. Other times, they simply highlight diminished bone health.”
As a result, vitamin D and calcium can really help you avoid terrible injuries in the eventuality of a fall or accident.
- Eat More Meals in Smaller Portions
The metabolism tends to slow down as we age as well so older adults need less calories to function throughout the day.
Some will discover that they are naturally less hungry after a certain age but others will have to actively adjust to this new reality and a good way to do so is by eating smaller meals.
“To do this while eating less calories, it’s best to eat more frequently throughout the day. This will ensure you meet your caloric needs but also your vitamin and mineral requirements,” the expert tells the outlet.
- Drink Enough Liquids with Your Meals
“Our thirst mechanism, the signals in our brain that tell us to drink, aren’t as strong in older adulthood as in childhood. So, it is important to make a conscious effort,” Sylvester shares.
She goes on to mention that hydration contributes to maintaining a healthy metabolism.
If you’re struggling with consuming enough water in a day, she recommends drinking from a smaller bottle and refilling it multiple times.
- Include Enough Protein
Sylvester explains that “Most adults begin to lose muscle mass as they age. Our muscles play a big role in metabolic health, in physical stability, and wound healing.”
In other words, while eating plenty of protein rich foods is always important, it’s especially vital later on in life.
