It is very important for every human to get plenty of physical exercise and eat foods that are nutrient rich at all ages. As our bodies grow and mature our nutritional needs change, especially in our golden years. Some nutrients become especially important in aiding and maintaining a higher level of health.

Here are some key and essential nutrients that all older adults need:

• Calcium and Vitamin D

Calcium and vitamin D are key nutrients for bone health. Consuming three servings of low-fat or fat-free dairy products as well as calcium rich foods and beverages is a good way to give your body more calcium and vitamin D. Some great sources of calcium in food include fortified cereals, fruit juices, dark leafy green vegetables, canned fish with soft bones, and fortified plant-based beverages. Foods with great sources of vitamin D include fatty fish like salmon, eggs, and fortified foods and beverages. If you choose to take a calcium supplement, it is best to choose one with vitamin D.

• Vitamin B12

Some adults over the age of fifty may begin to absorb less and less vitamin B12. It is good to talk with a doctor, dietitian or nutritionist to see if you should add a vitamin B12 supplement to your daily routine. Foods that are rich in vitamin B12 include fortified cereals, lean meats, and some seafood.

• Dietary Fiber

Fiber is important for health because it helps the body to maintain regularity with disposal of waste from the body and it has been show to help lower the risk of heart disease as well as lower the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Great food sources of fiber include whole-grain breads and cereals, beans and peas, and some fruits and vegetables such as apples.

• Potassium

Making sure to eat potassium rich foods and limit your intake of salt will help to keep blood pressure lower. Good sources of potassium include bananas and other fruits and vegetables, beans, and low -fat or fat-free dairy products. Adding flavor to food with salt-free herbs and spices or spice blends (look for salt-free on the label) is a very beneficial way to lower sodium intake.

• Eat Healthy Fats

The healthy fats that are good for health include polyunsaturated fats and monounsaturated fats. These types of fats can be found in nuts, seeds, avocados, vegetable oils, and fish. You want to avoid foods with large amounts of saturated and trans fats and only eat them on special occasion.

For more information on the nutritional strategy we use for our residents within our assisted living care please contact us at any time.

We would love to answer any of your questions about our luxury adult assisted living home. At Three Tree Vista we take pride in treating all of our residents as if they were our own family. Their best care is our main focus and this includes proper daily nutrition and help with taking daily needed supplements.

We are a family owned and operated residential adult care home in Burien offering the highest quality in care for older adults.