Grow Grey Healthfully!

Healthy Living

Thanks to the advancements of medical science the life expectancy has increased many folds. The population of baby bloomers is bigger than ever and is growing. However, there is a flip side. It is burdening the medical system of Canada because living longer rarely means living healthier.

But we can change this. If you are at that stage of life where you have started using expressions such as “these young people” consider this the right time to pay more attention to your diet. A nutritious diet helps you grow grey healthfully.

As the age advances body’s wear and tear also increases. But our metabolism slows down and so does its inbuilt healing capacity. So, we need to include such nutrients in our diet that are easy to digest yet fulfil the changing needs of our body.

To devise a good diet plan to suit your changing needs, just follow the guidelines below:

• Old age erodes our bones of their calcium deposits. This leads to health problems such as arthritis and osteoporosis. Eat more of diary food products or alternatively, calcium-rich soybean products to compensate for calcium deficit.

• Cognitive performance declines naturally with age. Green leafy vegetables can improve this as well as memory and ability to process information as they are rich in folic acid. Alternatively, you can ask your doctor if folic acid supplements are good for you.

• Zinc metabolism too gets a beating as we age. Opt for wholegrain cereals and fish to beat zinc deficiency.

• Seniors with heart conditions should cut down their intake of red meat, high-fat cheese, butter and cream. Fibre-rich diet such as whole grain cereals, wholemeal breads, vegetables and fruits is a healthier choice.

• Elderly people with high blood pressure must cut on their salt consumptions and increase their intake of vegetables, fruits and calcium.

• When we approach our retiring age, our taste buds also become sluggish. Use of spices/flavourings such as curry powder, onions, garlic, ginger, pepper, dry mustard, bay leaf, paprika, parsley, tomato, lemon and mint can pamper the taste buds in a healthy way.

• If your appetite is diminishing, try using vegetables and fruits of different colour and shapes. A colourful and attractive serving, especially in pleasant surroundings can bring back the appetite and interest in the food.

• And don’t forget the age-old formula of drinking enough water to keep the digestive system running properly. You can supplement it further by adding other healthy drinks such as fresh fruit juices and shakes.