“This is a common theme among people as we get older. So this is what I’m trying to advocate now as a health professional.”
An Emphasis on Protein as Nutrition Needs Change
A major example of changing needs is protein. As we age, humans lose muscle mass unless we practice resistance training – and eat enough protein.
“Our body is starting to go through this process of use it or lose it,” Angel says. “As we’re getting older, if we aren’t being active, our muscle mass is going to start to decrease.”
Also:
- Calcium and Vitamin D, which are essential for good bone health. These come from dairy, but also fatty fish, nuts, seeds, eggs, and more.
- Vitamin B – from animal protein and some cereals or supplements
- Fiber
“What works for one person may not work for everyone else,” Angel advises. “We, as a society, want quick fixes. We’d like something to occur very fast. If I want to lose 10 pounds, I’d like to lose it tomorrow.”
An excellent resource for further information is eatright.org of the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics. Read our tips on Losing Fat after 50.
Also, discuss any specific concerns about how your nutrition needs change with your doctor or a local nutritionist. We’re here to help you get a handle on the right eating plan for you, too.
Eating right is the most basic form of self-care, along with exercising on a consistent basis. Especially as we head into the holiday season, let’s take a moment to consider our relationship with food, family, fitness and gratitude.
As Jack Lalanne famously said, “Exercise is king, nutrition is queen, and when we put them together, we have quite a kingdom.”
For more with Angel Planells, listen to this Optimal Aging podcast interview.