Eating a nutritious diet is important for everyone of any age. However, as we get older we can become more susceptible to certain conditions and diseases. Eating well is an essential part of staying healthy and keeping our organisms at top form.  

Yet, people who are just getting started incorporating a healthier diet in their lifestyle at an older age may not be sure where to begin.  To help you kickstart better nutrition in your senior years, here are some of the best tips.

Eat Plenty of Vegetables

Vegetables are the cornerstone of a healthy diet because they are full of plenty of nutrients, fiber, and are extremely low in calories. Rather than filling yourself up with starches and proteins initially, always start your meal with some vegetables. Although raw vegetables are ideal, any sort of vegetables are a good thing. Whether frozen, or any can, try to incorporate more vegetables into every meal whenever possible.

Eat a Wide Range of Proteins

Protein is equally as important in a diet. However, it’s important that you vary the protein sources that you eat.  From poultry, to fish, to eggs, add different sorts of proteins to get the maximum benefit out of them. Get creative with your recipes, and try proteins that you may not have considered trying before. You may be surprised to find that you like things you never imagined!  Sometimes it just takes a little creativity and flavor.

Avoid “Diet” Foods

There are all sorts of “diet” options available on the market— from cookies, to dairy, to breads. Although the idea of eating “diet” versions of foods is admirable, ultimately, foods in their original form are always best. Often diet foods are lower in fat, but are packed full of sugars and extra calories trying to make up for the lack of flavor. Do yourself a favor and eat small amounts of full fat foods rather than large quantities of so-called “diet” variations.

Cut Back on Salt

Salt adds flavor to food, and it’s a great way to bring life to your food that would otherwise be bland. However, too much of anything is a bad thing.  Not only can salt impact your blood pressure, but it can also lead to water retention, and feeling bloated. Instead of always reaching for the salt, consider other spices like pepper, sage, or even rosemary. While you’re at it, consider starting your own herb garden and get creative with different spice combinations. You might just find that once you discover the world of flavors out there, salt becomes your least favorite spice.

Food Prep

One of the biggest culprits for opting for unhealthy meal options is convenience. All too often we’re hungry and we reach for the first thing we find in our cupboards or fridge. That’s why, meal prepping is a great way to ensure you have healthy choices on hand at all times.  Spend one day a week batch cooking and store it in Tupperware in your fridge or even freeze to be thawed later.