Health Foods For the Aging

Lets face it, our digestive system and much of everything else in our bodies are not the same as when we were twenty years old. Our cells age, everything slows down and well, things start to feel a bit ‘rusty’.

Foods to avoid as we age

What we eat also has a greater impact on our health. With medication and various ailments, it pays to take a closer look at what we eat because not all foods, even the healthy ones, are good for us.

Here is a list (courtesy of  Web MD) of foods we should if not avoid, then pay a little more attention to :

1) Grapefruit – Full of vitamin C but not necessarily the best choice if you are taking medication for anxiety, insomnia or high blood pressure. Instead, look to other fruits such as oranges or kiwis for your vitamin C intake.

2) Raw Vegetables – Not a good choice if you suffer from dental problems such as teeth decay and sensitivity but you can still eat vegetables lightly steamed, cooked as soup or stew or just pureed for all the good vitamins and fiber.

3) Beans – OK, we all know what beans can do if consumed excessively. Remember the song “beans, beans are good for your heart; but the more you eat, the more you f–t.” Yes, we all sung that as kids thinking it was hilarious but as we age it is no laughing matter. Beans are great for you but if you suffer from stomach and gas problems, introduce beans in small portions and slowly to your diet. Your family and friends will thank you for it.

4) Alcohol – We all know a good glass of red wine is good for you because of the resveratrol in it but as we age, even a small glass of wine or beer can have different effects on us. It will affect those with blood pressure problems or diabetes (as it raises blood sugar), and it could also affect medication you are taking. So make sure you consult a doctor before imbibing your glass of wine.

5) Dairy Products – Dairy could get more difficult to digest as we age but it does not mean we need to give up this source of calcium entirely. Try low fat or lactose free options for cheese and yoghurt which are better tolerated or Go Dairy Free.

6) Caffeine – This essential drink whilst we were working may no longer be so welcomed as we age. Caffeine can cause restlessness, sleeplessness and increase your heart rate. It does not mean you need to give it up entirely if you do not want to, but cut back and replace afternoon coffees with herbal teas and decaffeinated coffee.

7) Meat – Meat is a great source of protein but a lot of meats are fatty and hard to digest, especially as we age. Stick to very lean cuts of meat (10% fat) or better yet, eat more fish.

High Salt Foods – The days of eating packets of salty crisps and snacks are over especially if you are over forty. The CDC suggests less than 1,500 milligrams of salt a day fr adults over forty or you could be more prone to heart attacks and stroke. Watch out for processed foods such as luncheon meats, processed foods and snacks. Read labels carefully and if possible, go for the low or No-Salt Seasoning .

9) Fruit – No, we are not saying avoid fruit as they are full of vitamins, minerals and fiber but if you have teeth problems, go for the softer fruits such as berries, bananas and melons. Or you could blend these fruits into a delicious smoothie (using low fat milk of course).

10) Raw Sprouts – Because of the way they are grown – in warm humid conditions; sprouts such as radishes, alfalfa and mug bean sprouts can harbor bacteria that can be harmful to those with weakened immune systems. Enjoy them by all means but just make sure they are cooked.

Some of the above may or may not apply to you but it is always prudent to pay attention to our bodies and the changes it encounters over time.