Foods you need to avoid as you age include foods that interfere with medicine’s effectiveness and chewing ability or increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and blood pressure. Or promote lactose intolerance, indigestion, and flatulence. However, physical activity and a diet free from foods you need to avoid as you age also improve your self-reliance.
Heart Friendly And Fast Healthy Foods
Fried Foods
Fried foods are especially unhealthy for seniors as they are high in saturated and trans fats, which can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Also eating fried foods can contribute to obesity and other health issues
Grapefruit
It may be surprising, but foods can affect how your medicine works. That’s why it’s always best to ask your doctor or pharmacist if you should avoid some foods. For example, if you take medicine for high blood pressure, anxiety, or insomnia, grapefruit juice may interact with your drugs. Don’t miss out on the vitamin C and potassium that grapefruit holds. Instead, enjoy other citrus fruits like oranges and limes. But check the labels of juices before you drink them. Some may contain grapefruit juice.
Raw Vegetables
Raw vegetables may be high on your list of foods to avoid if you have sensitive, decayed, or missing teeth. But don’t miss out on the vitamins and fiber. Instead, try cooking vegetables until they are softer. Or use pureed vegetables, such as carrots, pumpkins, and beets, in soups or stews. You can also try canned vegetables. Just pick those with no added salt.
Beans
Some people avoid beans because of the flatulence and stomach pain they can cause. But you may want to give it a second thought if you’ve banned beans from your diet. An excellent source of fiber, beans are also high in protein and iron and low in fat. The trick is to add beans to your diet slowly. Start by having a small serving a few times a week. Or try using a digestive enzyme sold over the counter to reduce gas.
Alcohol
Moderate drinking may reduce your risk of heart attack and some types of strokes. But as you age, alcohol may affect you differently, even if you’re used to a glass of wine with dinner or a beer with a TV. Alcohol disrupts sleep and can raise your blood pressure, too. Alcohol can also cause hypoglycemia in people with diabetes. It even affects the way medicines work. Talk to your doctor about your alcohol use.
Dairy
You may have trouble digesting milk or dairy products as you age. But you may not have to give up all dairy products and the calcium and protein they provide. Many people can have small amounts of dairy with no stomach upset. And some dairy products are better tolerated than others. Non-fat plain yogurt and low-fat cheeses are especially nutritious choices. Or try lactose-free dairy products.
Caffeine
Although caffeine may not be a problem for everyone, it can make some people anxious or jittery. Caffeine can also increase your heart rate and cause sleeping problems. If you’re trying to cut back, reduce slowly. Stopping caffeine too quickly may cause headaches, nausea, or vomiting. Slowly replace caffeinated drinks with water, herbal tea, or decaf.
Red Meat
Some of the healthiest cuts of meat, such as lean steak, can be the most difficult to chew. While hamburger is easier to chew, it’s often less nutritious. It can contain 20% to 30% fat. Instead, look for lean ground beef with no more than 10% fat. Or for a healthier protein source that’s easy to chew, try fish.
Salty Foods
If you’re 51 or over or in a high-risk group, you need to watch how much sodium you get. If you’re over 51, the recommended limit is 2,300 mg per day. And if you’re in a high-risk group, you get no more than 1,500 mg of sodium each day. Too much sodium can raise your blood pressure and put you at higher risk for a heart attack and stroke. The main culprits are processed foods, such as frozen foods, snack foods, salad dressings, and lunch meats. So read labels carefully and look for “sodium-free,” low-salt, or no-salt alternatives.
Cruciferous Vegetables
Do you avoid cruciferous vegetables because of problems with gas? Cruciferous vegetables — broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and kale are high in vitamin C, beta-carotene, fiber, calcium, iron, and folate. Many are also high in vitamins A and K, and low in calories. Studies have shown they may also reduce your cancer risk. Rather than avoid these vegetables, add them to meals gradually, in smaller servings. Drinking plenty of fluids may help too.
Fruit
Fresh fruits contain plenty of vitamins, fiber, and other important nutrients. However, it may be difficult to eat your apple if you have trouble chewing. Instead, try canned fruits with no added sugar or syrup, or eat softer fruits, such as berries, bananas, and melons. You can also blend your favorites into a fruit smoothie.
Bottom Line
As you try to deal with foods you need to avoid as you age, remember that the foods and drinks that make up a healthy diet for you may change from when you were younger. So be aware of specific nutritional needs such as serving sizes and amounts for your age, If you need help preparing a healthy diet, talk to a family member, your healthcare professional, or an accredited practicing dietician. Most important talk to your doctor about your specific health needs.
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https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/Nutrition-needs-when-youre-over-65#:~:
