Recipe Ideas for Your Loved One

 

Recipe Ideas for Your Loved One

 

For over-weight elderly parents, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables will help weight loss. It can also help increase their energy levels. For those who suffer from heart disease or diabetes, low-fat and lower-calorie diets are recommended to prevent worsening conditions. In addition, breastfeeding mothers can stock up on the nutrients and vitamins necessary for a healthy pregnancy and newborn.

 

Certain food items can also be used to help people who quit smoking to improve their health condition. While the benefit of quitting smoking is obvious, it is not recommended that people start a diet while trying to stop indulging in unhealthy foods. The latest studies show that new diets often lead to increased cravings during the initial period of weight loss. In such cases, one should first reduce calorie intake and then gradually introduce fresh foods into their diet.

The American Dietetic Association's Nutrition Care Manual offers specific meal planning for the elderly. They suggest that people with a BMI under 25 who are not getting enough nutrition should have six servings of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and two servings of protein a day. The seniors can also supplement their diet by adding other healthy foods. For example, they should consume at least three cups of non-fat dairy products per day to ensure adequate calcium intake.

Some of the healthier snacks for people who have a BMI under 25 include:

 

1. Non-fat plain yogurt

2. Tuna, chicken or salmon canned in water (seaweed and spices not included)

Some of the less healthy snacks for people who have a BMI under 25 include:

 

1. Chips, crackers and pretzels that are high in trans fat

2. Pastries, cake, doughnuts and cookies that are high in saturated fat

3. Foods made with flour which is believed to be linked with cancer

The elderly are encouraged to eat more fruits and vegetables, seafood, whole grains, non-fat dairy products, and lean proteins. Certain foods may also help people who are trying to quit smoking. The American Dietetic Association's Nutrition Care Manual offers specific meal planning for the elderly.