Eating a healthy diet is essential at any age, as it can help to support overall health and well-being. However, making healthy food choices can be challenging for a variety of reasons. The tips we’ve provided below are intended to be easy additions to your current diet. No matter if you’re short on time or if your loved one is a picky eater, these tips can help you add more fruits and vegetables to your diet.
Offer a variety of options
Try offering a range of vegetables and fruits in different colors, textures, and flavors to keep things interesting. You can also serve them cooked, raw, or in a pureed form.
Make them easy to access
Keep a supply of pre-cut vegetables and fruits in the fridge or on the counter where they are easy to see and grab. This can make it more convenient for older adults to add them to their meals.
Add them to meals subtly
If the older adult is resistant to eating vegetables and fruits, try adding them to dishes subtly. For example, add grated zucchini to meatballs or pureed spinach to pasta sauce.
Serve them with a dip
Some people find it easier to eat vegetables and fruits if they are served with a dip or dressing. You can try hummus, ranch dressing, or peanut butter for dipping.
Make vegetables the main attraction
Serve vegetables as the main course rather than a side dish. For example, you could make a stir-fry with vegetables and tofu or a vegetarian pasta dish with lots of vegetables.
Add vegetables to soups and stews
Soups and stews are a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into the diet. For example, you can add pureed vegetables to cream soups to make them creamier and more flavorful.
Add vegetables to sandwiches and wraps
Add lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and other vegetables to sandwiches and wraps for a crunchy and nutritious boost.
Use vegetables as pizza toppings
Pizza is a favorite for many people, and you can make it healthier by adding a variety of vegetables as toppings. For example, you can add grilled, roasted, or sautéed vegetables to your pizza.
Encourage social eating
Mealtime can be a social and enjoyable activity for older adults. Consider setting the table with a colorful array of vegetables and fruits and encourage the older adult to try a little bit of everything.
Be a role model
Older adults may be more likely to eat vegetables and fruits if they see others around them doing so. Therefore, if you are eating a healthy diet that includes a variety of vegetables and fruits, it may encourage the older adult in your care to do the same.
Conclusion
Eating a healthy diet is essential at any age for maintaining overall health and well-being. While it can be challenging to make healthy food choices, many easy strategies can help you incorporate healthy eating into your daily routine.
Remember to be patient and persistent, as it may take time to develop healthy eating habits in your loved ones. Caregiving is a demanding role. If you need additional support or guidance, don’t hesitate to contact us at EQC Home Care.
