Nutrition as we age

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If you are what you eat and you can get better with age, doesn’t it make sense to eat for optimal aging? Here’s how your nutritional needs change and how to get the max from the foods you love.

You don’t need to look in the mirror to know that we change as we get older. The good news is that we can take small, positive steps every day to make the most of our wiser years.

Since our nutritional needs change over time, it’s important to know how to adjust our food choices, serving sizes and meal plans so that we fuel our bodies right. Watch this slideshow to find out how.

Changing needs, changing tastes

One important change is that we need fewer calories as we get older. But we need approximately the same amount of nutrients — and even more of certain ones.

At the same time, many people take less enjoyment from eating than they used to. As children move away and social circles become closer knit, dining may no longer be the social event it once was. Perhaps foods just don’t taste the same any more.

But it doesn’t have to be that way! You can make adjustments and adapt to your new lifestyle and have fun doing it. Just remember that whatever your situation, it’s important to be more selective about food choices.

                     
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Useful links

Use these links for more information on topics introduced in this slideshow and for easy-to-follow tips to put what you’ve learned into practice.

For more information about good health as you age or support groups in your area, search “seniors” in Find Support.

This article may contain information related to nutrition, exercise and fitness and/or general information provided by select health care professionals. This information is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment or advice provided by a qualified professional. Speak to your healthcare professional before making any changes to your lifestyle or beginning or discontinuing any course of treatment.


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