March is Nutrition Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of making informed food choices and developing healthy eating habits. As we age, our nutritional needs evolve, making it crucial to prioritize a well-balanced diet to support overall health and well-being.
Our bodies undergo natural changes as we age, including decreased muscle mass, changes in metabolism, and a higher risk of chronic diseases. Therefore, proper nutrition becomes a key factor in maintaining good health for older adults to help maintain strength, mobility and good quality of life. But making better choices about what we eat can be hard since we are constantly bombarded by new and often conflicting information. It is important to seek out evidence-based advice.
When discussing nutrition, we must consider more than the food we eat. Nutritional strategies include dietary strategies, nutritional counselling, oral nutritional supplements, or any combination. Several nutritional strategies—including nutritional counselling, certain supplements, and dietary changes—can help different populations of older adults meet their personal nutritional needs. Furthermore, combining multiple strategies may provide greater benefits than using one.
By making informed food choices and prioritizing a well-balanced diet, older adults can enhance their quality of life, maintain vitality, and reduce the risk of age-related health issues. Remember, it's never too late to start on the path to a healthier, more nourished you!
To learn more about nutrition's role in helping us age optimally, what the evidence says about popular diets and more, read our resources below.
