Making wise decisions about what you eat as you get older is important. Research shows that it’s not too late for smart food choices and other good health habits like being physically active, to help reduce your risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis. The goal is to make healthy lifestyle choices so you can stay active in the coming years. The foods you eat and your level of exercise is related. Because our metabolism slows with age, if you continue eating the same amount and types of food but do not become more active, you may gain weight. What you eat and how active you are keeps your weight in balance.
Healthy meal choices are important, but what about between meals? Sometimes you just need a little something to keep you going. Snacks are ok, as long as they are smart food choices. But remember, just because a snack is healthy, doesn’t mean you can eat all you want. Snacks contribute to overall daily calorie intake.
If you want an afternoon pick-me-up, or after-dinner snack, here are some healthy suggestions:
• Keep vegetables in your fridge such as carrots, sliced red bell peppers, edamame, cucumbers, broccoli, mushrooms or other veggies that you enjoy. Pair with
hummus or low-fat dressing for dipping.
• Keep fruit available. Favorite choices are bananas, apples (with a bit of your favorite
cheese), grapes, and melon slices. If you are diabetic, check with your doctor for the
type of fruits you should eat. Be aware that dried fruits contain both a high sugar
content and high calories. Also, certain medications and specific fruits don’t mix.
• Go nuts. Almonds are one of the best nuts to eat and a healthy snack. But only a
handful as they add a lot of calories. Walnuts, pecans, peanuts and cashews are also
good options.
• If you want some chips or nuts, don’t eat from the bag. Count out a serving and put
the bag away!
• Make some air-popped popcorn or low-fat microwave popcorn. Be cautious with
added salt.
• Enjoy a snack of dark chocolate occasionally. Remember moderation is the key.
• Minimize your intake of “empty calories.” These are foods and drinks with lots of
calories, but not many nutrients such as cookies, soda and alcohol.
It helps to learn how to read food labels so you can make informed choices and select snacks that are as healthy as possible. Eating healthy can be easier than you think!
If you would like information on Assisted Living Communities, please contact Mary Dembkowski or Margie Veis at Summerhill Villa, 661-254-9933 and online at www.mbkseniorliving.com.