Welcome to the Aging Well Journal Newsletter for September 2013!
Nutrition for Healthy Aging
As people age, they need fewer calories. Their metabolism slows and they are less active. So choose your foods wisely. In an effort to get proper nutrition, you might gain extra pounds you don’t want!
To help the elderly manage nutritional and caloric intake, the Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging (HNRCA) at Tufts University developed “MyPlate for Older Adults” which follows the federal government’s dietary guidelines for Americans called “MyPlate”. The new HNRCA “MyPlate for Older Adults” limits foods high in trans and saturated fats, salt, and added sugars. It emphasizes whole grains. “MyPlate for Older Adults” is intended to be a guide for healthy older adults who are living independently.
Do You Have Special Dietary Needs?
People with diabetes, heart conditions and bone/joint conditions may need help learning what foods are best and choosing proper foods. AW can help you with dietary education and meal planning. Call us (314) 726-5600.
Which foods do older people need in particular?
“MyPlate for Older Adults” provides examples of foods that contain high levels of vitamins and minerals per serving for healthy older adults:
- Bright-colored vegetables like carrots and broccoli,
- Deep-colored fruit like berries and peaches,
- Whole, enriched, fortified grains and cereals like brown rice and 100% whole wheat bread,
- Low- and non-fat dairy products such as yogurt and low-lactose milk,
- Dry beans, nuts, fish, poultry, lean meat and eggs,
- Liquid vegetable oils, soft spreads low in saturated and trans fat, and spices to replace salt,
- Fluids such as water and fat-free milk,
- Physical activity such as walking, resistance training and light cleaning.
Do You Need Help With Shopping and Preparing Nutritious Meals?
AW Health Care can take you to the store and send a caregiver to help you shop and prepare delicious nutritious meals. Call us at (314) 726-5600.
An Apple A Day…?
Yes! Besides being a good source of fiber, apples also contain potassium, phosphorus, calcium, manganese, magnesium, iron and zinc…and Vitamins A, B1, B2, C, E, K, folate and niacin! There are no fats, sodium or cholesterol in apples. So the next time you need a snack, reach for an apple.
Be Awake to Better Health: Flu Season is Coming
It’s not too early to start thinking about the start of the flu season. Call AW Health Care for information on flu shots (314) 726-5600!
Please know that AW can provide a flu shot on site at 7201 Balson Avenue beginning October 1, 2013. Flu shots are $25 each with insurance (including Medicare HMOs) or private pay. No Charge for Medicare patients. Bring your Medicare card with you. Walk Ins are welcome!
Why Should I Get a Flu Shot?
The flu shot is your best bet for avoiding influenza. Although the flu shot doesn’t always provide total protection, it is worth getting according to many physicians. Influenza can cause serious complications in the elderly especially if you have asthma, COPD, kidney or liver disease, obesity or sickle cell disease.
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