Everyone loves a snack at some point during the day. You want your senior loved ones to make healthy choices when they need a snack. Here are some tips to ensure that they're snacking with their health in mind.
Benefits of Healthy Snacking for Seniors
Healthy snacking can provide many benefits to seniors. These include:
- Better energy levels: Eating snacks throughout the day can keep your senior loved one's energy levels up and help them stay active and alert. Plus, eating a variety of nutritious snacks can provide a range of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that are essential for seniors to stay energized throughout the day.
- Improve cognitive function: A nutrient-rich snacks can also help seniors keep their minds sharp and help improve their cognitive functioning. A healthy snack also provides the brain with the nutrients it needs to remain active and alert.
- Weight management: The right snacks in moderation can help seniors maintain their weight and reduce the risk of gaining excess weight. Snacks with high nutritional values can also help seniors maintain their health and enjoy a higher quality of life.
Healthy Snack Options for Seniors
When choosing snacks, seniors should look for snacks that are high in vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. Here are some great snack options for seniors to consider:
Fruits
Fruits like apples, pears, and citrus fruits are full of essential vitamins and minerals and are low in sugar. One of these fruits can help your senior loved one keep their blood sugar levels stable.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, and chia seeds are full of healthy fats, proteins, and fiber. Additionally, eating a handful of nuts or seeds as a snack can help your senior relative feel fuller for longer.
Dairy Products
Rich in calcium and protein, dairy products like yogurt, cheese, and cottage cheese make an excellent snack option. Eating dairy products as a snack can also help keep your senior loved one's bones strong.
Whole Grains
Oats, quinoa, and brown rice are full of important vitamins and minerals. These whole grains improve your senior relative's energy levels.
Lean Proteins
Lean proteins like fish, chicken, and eggs are low in fat. Eating lean proteins as a snack can provide additional energy.
Smart Snacking Tips for Seniors
In addition to choosing nutritious snacks, seniors should also consider the following smart snacking tips:
For Seniors With Diabetes
If your senior loved one has diabetes, you should be especially mindful of the snacks you choose. Choose snacks that are low in sugar, carbohydrates, and fat. You want to check your senior parent's blood sugar levels before and after snacking.
For Seniors With Dental Issues
When your senior parent has dental issues, avoid foods that are hard to chew, sticky, or sugary. Instead, opt for softer snacks like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, or oatmeal.
Seniors Who Need Heart-Healthy Snacks
You always want your senior loved one to eat snacks that are good for their heart. Look for snacks that are low in saturated fat and sodium. You can choose fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products.
Senior Helpers Vero Beach Helps Seniors Prepare Healthy Snacks
Healthy snacking can provide many benefits to seniors in Fellsmere, Sebastian, Vero Beach, and Fort Pierce. At Senior Helpers Vero Beach, we are passionate about helping our senior clients. Call us today to learn more about how we can help you or your loved one stay healthy and active.