Diet & Nutrition – for a healthy life

A healthy and balanced diet is important no matter what age you are. It provides the nutrients our bodies need to function and develop properly – carbohydrates, fats, proteins, minerals and water. It gives us energy, improves mood and gives us a zest for life.

As our bodies go through the life cycle these nutritional needs change. Lifestyles change, often becoming less active, meaning we may require less calories and more protein, for example. But we still need to get enough nutrients to give us strength and vitality and help prevent diseases such as osteoporosis, heart disease, high blood pressure.

Understanding what constitutes good nutrition and thinking about what you eat is a huge help in maintaining and improving your health.

What does a well-balanced diet consist of?

The key word is variety – consuming a range of foods such as fruit, vegetables, dairy, whole grains and protein. It’s important to choose fresh ingredients where possible and eat more foods that are closer to the way nature makes them. Avoid items that are overly processed and those with a high salt content.

Eat in moderation. Know when you have had enough, feel satisfied but not stuffed. You don’t necessarily have to give up the things you love, for example think about having bacon for breakfast once a week and a healthier option on other days.

You don’t need to eliminate certain categories of food either, we all need protein, fat, carbohydrates, fibre, vitamins, and minerals, instead find a balance of options from each of these food groups.

It is also not just what you eat but when.? It is important to eat regularly to keep our energy up.? Our bodies take energy from the foods absorbed and if we fail to eat adequately throughout the day it can be hard to keep active and focused.

Nutritional Needs of Older Adults

As our bodies age, they have different needs, and in order to maintain optimum health, certain nutrients become more important.

Poor nutrition in older adults is most often seen in significant weight loss, protein deficits, dehydration, or pressure injuries and malnutrition is a common issue in the elderly and those needing care.

Malnutrition is defined as someone not eating enough or the right foods to maintain health and wellbeing.? According to Age UK, it is estimated that over one million older people in the UK are malnourished or at the risk of malnutrition.

Malnutrition is associated with poorer recovery and increased infection, hospitalisation, re-admission and long-term ill health. Good nutrition is therefore essential to avoid these issues and can help increase independence and increase wellbeing all round.

The elderly and those in care homes often have a unique, complex mix of healthcare needs that can be accompanied by loss of appetite or difficulty with eating and drinking. Older people living with severe dementia may forget to eat or even forget how to eat, and those with neurological conditions may have swallowing difficulties or problems with self-feeding.

Implementing good nutrition ensures that as well as risk of malnutrition being identified, people have access to and are guided in the consumption of food that not only meets nutritional, but also cultural and religious needs and preferences.

At AgeCare all our staff are trained in the importance of nutrition, how to spot malnutrition and to work as a team to provide personalised care for those who need it.

Our catering teams plan and provide freshly cooked meals that are balanced and tasty, taking into consideration seasonal produce and variety.? When needed, we provide personalise meal plans, working on a one to one basis to maintain health and tackle specific issues.

It’s not just about the food

Mealtimes are important not only because of the food but also the company. A pleasurable dining experience is often the highlight of the day, and our homes provide warm and welcoming dining spaces where residents can enjoy a meal together.? Residents also have the option to eat in their rooms and we cater for visitors and family members, making these important times even more enjoyable.

Eating well and enjoying good nutrition are essential elements of living a fulfilling life.? Our management and staff work hard to ensure all our residents benefit from a pleasurable culinary experience as part of the outstanding care we provide.