Nutritious And Healthy Meals For Seniors
According to the Academy Of Nutrition and Dietetics, on average, women and men below 50 need 2000 and 2500 calories, respectively.
As they grow old, as their ability to work reduces, the number of calories their body requires also reduces. For example, after 50, women need 1600-1800 calories, while men need 2000 calories daily.
Regardless of the number of reduced calories, they still require the same amount of nutrients. Hence, older people require meals that are healthy and easy to make. As they have little ability and get tired more quickly, they need food recipes that are easy to make.
Furthermore, with time, they must use a minimum amount of salt or sugar and diet to prevent health problems like diabetes or high blood pressure. Hence, they must have nutritious diets that not only improve their health but also contribute to physical activity and prevent other illnesses.
This article will list some of the nutritious yet best, easy-to-make meals for the elderly.
Starting The Day With A Healthy Breakfast
Nothing says nutritious and healthy than starting the day with a healthy, full of nutrients and breakfast meal. The breakfast meal for seniors should be fulfilling and nourishing enough to give them the energy for the whole day. However, the meals should be easy to make as well.
For breakfast, older people can opt for scrambled eggs, and if they are watching their cholesterol level, then boil eggs and consume egg whites.
They should also include fruits as part of the day. They can make fresh juice, but that requires a bit of effort. Even cutting pieces of pineapple, apples, grapes, strawberries, or any fruit of the season will add freshness to the breakfast.
Eating them with oatmeal or yogurt makes the meal hearty and nutritious.
If they want a bit of sweetness, then wholewheat bread and spread jam, butter, and honey. However, for this option, it’s better to consult the doctor.
Don’t Keep The Lunch Waiting
Although the elderly do not have a huge diet and often opt for breakfast or dinner. We recommend taking a light lunch as skipping a meal or adding too much time differences between meals can add to weakness.
Hence, let’s look at some light, easy-to-make yet nutritious lunches. For homemade soup, vegetable or chicken stock. All one has to do is put it on the stove, add ingredients, and let it simmer in low heat.
A tuna and chicken sandwich is also a great option; add some cold cheese and greens like lettuce or cucumbers. For a healthier option, if one wishes to skip the bread, make a salad bowl with tomatoes and cucumbers or broccoli and drizzle it with olive oil.
Finish Off The Day With Dinner
End your day with a healthy dinner meal. A nutritious dinner will lead to a good night’s sleep; hence, let’s look at some easy-to-make dinner options for senior citizens.
Add protein to your diet, so bake chicken breast or fish. Not much effort, just marinate the protein and cook it in the oven. Combine the meal with rice or steamed vegetables if the doctor allows. Broccoli, Cauliflower, Beets, Spinach; play with the greens and change the menu daily for some variety.
Overall, we looked at some healthy meals for older people. They need their nutrients; hence, providing them with easy-to-make yet nutritious options will improve their diet and keep them fit.
At Reyna Care, we provide exceptional and quality care to senior citizens. You can contact us today to learn which meals we offer to our elderly.