5 Steps to Healthy Eating in Later Life

Here are 5 ways to create a healthy balance in your diet:

1. Reduce salt, sugar and fat

Heart disease, obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure have all been linked to diets that are high in salt, sugar and fat. So, it stands to reason that reducing your intake of salt, sugar and fat will help to reduce your risk of these illnesses.

Watch out for processed food and ready-made foods as they can often hide surprisingly high levels of these three offenders!

2. Maintain a healthy weight

As you age it’s common to find that your appetite reduces, and you find it hard not to lose weight.

If you’re finding it hard to eat enough calories to prevent weight loss, try eating little and often. Six small meals throughout the day may be more appealing than the more traditional three meals a day. Choose calorie dense options like milky drinks packed full of calcium, fruit and vegetable smoothies brimming with vitamins and minerals, or soups.

Keeping active will also help as the activity will usually improve your appetite, your mood and of course your muscle.

3. Stay properly hydrated

In order for your body to work properly, it needs water. If you become dehydrated you increase your risk of falls as well as an increased likelihood of experiencing headaches, constipation and a lack of concentration. Tea, coffee, soup, water, fruit juices and smoothies all count towards your fluid intake.

However, some medical conditions can affect how much water you need. If your GP or other health professional has discussed the need to monitor your daily fluid intake, then you might find it useful to keep a record of how much you consume.

4. Eat a rainbow

The Eatwell Guide (click here to download) provides a useful visual representation of what a healthy, balanced diet looks like. When it comes to fruit and veg, using seasonal produce is budget and environmentally friendly. Eating a wide variety of colours will ensure that you consume a mix of vitamins and minerals.

Fruit and vegetables are a great source of fibre which is important to keep your digestive system functioning.

5. Good fats

Keeping your body in tip top shape means that you do need some fats – but it’s all about moderation. Nuts, seeds and ingredients like avocados are rich sources of heart healthy fats, as well as being really tasty.

Healthy eating at The Dower House

The incredible kitchen team at The Dower House ensure that residents have a wide and varied menu to choose from. Where possible we like to make the most of local and seasonal produce, including delicious Hampshire Watercress which makes for a delightful and healthy watercress soup.

Meryl and her team are able to cater for all dietary requirements and they always spend time getting to know our new residents and understanding their likes and dislikes.

We also offer a suitable menu for residents who experience difficulties with eating, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy mealtimes.

If you’d like to join us for lunch and a tour of the house and grounds, we would be delighted to arrange an appointment. Simply call 01962 882848