As we age, it’s totally normal — and more common than not! — to develop medical conditions that impact our daily lives. But the way we live our lives also impacts how much those medical conditions control us. One way to keep nagging health problems at bay? Diet. So many things can be prevented, or at least mitigated, by simple dietary restrictions or guidelines specific to your medical condition. Here is a guide to what seniors, whether they’re living at one of Kingsway Community’s senior living facilities or on their own, should (and shouldn’t!) be eating, given their medical condition.
If you have hypertension…
The DASH diet is for you. DASH, which stands for dietary approaches to stop hypertension, focuses on a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables, lean meats and low-fat dairy products. Specific foods to avoid include red meats, sweets, sugary beverages, and foods high in sodium.
If you have gout…
You should avoid foods high in purines, such as organ meats, red meats, and seafood including shellfish, sardines, and tuna, which can trigger attacks. (Alcohol can as well.) Having a healthy body mass index (BMI) can also help decrease intensity and quantity of gouty arthritic flares.
If you have high cholesterol…
Focus on eating whole grain foods, lean meats, beans, lentils, and lots of fruits and vegetables. Foods high in fiber and low in cholesterol are most important for trying to lower your high cholesterol.
If you have osteoporosis or osteopenia…
After women go through menopause, they have a decreased amount of estrogen in their bodies. Estrogen has qualities to protect our bones, so after menopause it’s even more important to make sure to eat foods high in calcium and vitamin D. Lots of foods are naturally fortified with these, including yogurt, cheese, and milk, but supplements can be used as well.
If you have diabetes…
It’s important to control your sugar intake. Sneaky sugars can be found in morning drinks like coffee and teas, plus condiments and cereals. Make sure you are focusing on eating whole grains like brown rice, oatmeal, and whole grain breads. There are many low-sugar condiment options, such as sugar-free barbecue sauce, peanut butter, and salad dressings. Keep your eye out for sugar-free oatmeal, too!
If you’re perfectly healthy, just getting up there in years…
A balanced diet high in fruits, vegetables, lean meats and whole grains is important. Balanced diet, weight control, and exercise are the keys to staying healthy. Everything is OK in moderation—just don’t let the cakes, cookies, and potato chips become a part of every meal.
At Kingsway Community our talented and professionally trained Dining Team creates meal that are flavorful, nutritious, and careful attention paid to each resident's personal dietary needs and preferences. Let one of our Senior Living Specialists provide more details on the variety of dining, services and amenities of Kingsway Community's campus and our full continuum of care, by phone 518-393-8800 or contact us by email.