Local doctor reveals the best and worst foods for older adults.

By Melissa Borgerding
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE

Older Americans need to be especially vigilant about what they eat, reports the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Although nutritional needs change with age, experts agree that the vast majority of older adults do not alter their eating habits, even though just a few simple changes could mean a sharper memory, higher energy levels, and a lower risk of illness and disease.

Nutritional needs change
An alarming number of older adults suffer from poor nutrition without even realizing it. That’s partially because many older adults still eat like they did at thirty, according to the FDA. Every year after the age of 40, metabolism slows down, making it tougher for the body to burn calories, and easier to pack on those extra pounds. Older adults who don’t have a regular fitness routine are especially at risk.

Rather than cut back on how much you eat, the FDA recommends first taking a good, hard look at what you eat. This may mean replacing the chocolate chip cookies in your fridge with fresh grapes to snack on instead, or substituting a turkey sandwich in place of that pizza for lunch. In short, choose foods that maximize nutritional value, not calories.

Avoid the canned goods
“Older adults often don’t see the benefit of cooking, especially if they’re living alone,” says Dr. Elliott Kroger, medical director at Sedgebrook. “Others may not have easy access to grocery stores to shop for the necessary fresh fruits and vegetables they need. As a result, they sometimes stock up on non-perishable foods that are high in fats and sodium, and lacking in fiber and vitamins.”

The best foods for older adults
So what foods should you stock up on to replace those convenient but badfor- you cans of salty, condensed soup and packets of instant mac and cheese?