Nutrient Rich Foods for Seniors

Foods that are high in vitamins, minerals, lean protein, and complex carbohydrates, while being relatively low in calories, are known as “nutrient-rich” foods. Most of these foods don’t need an aggressive marketing campaign, catchy name, or even much packaging. Despite that, however, it’s easier than you think it might be to find them and add them into your diet.

Most nutrient-rich foods come in all shapes and sizes, and are usually easy to remember as they typically are one ingredient. Nutrient-rich foods can be found in every section of the food pyramid, and include fruits, vegetables, lean meats like fish or poultry, seafood, eggs, beans, low or fat-free dairy products, nuts, and whole grains. Every individual’s calorie intake will be different based on their age, gender, activity level, and medical needs, but it’s still important to choose healthy, nutrient-rich foods for as many of your calories as you can, to pack a big beneficial nutritional punch in every bite.

A balanced, nutrient rich diet has many benefits, one of which being you’ll have more energy throughout the day. More energy means more activities, socializing, and more time feeling our best. Our bodies digest and process nutrient dense foods in a different way than calorically empty foods like candy or white bread, which is critical for maintaining energy. The more nutrient dense a food is, the slower our bodies process it, allowing the energy and nutrition stored in it to release in our system over a longer period. Something sugary, like soda or candy might give you some quick energy in the moment, but soon after your blood sugar will drop and leave you feeling a crash.