Sometimes the meals we eat are just not enough, so we often eat snacks to keep us full until the next meal. Snacks are often great energizers throughout the day. Some older adults have difficulty having full meals, so a great alternative is to have small nutritious and healthy snacks throughout the day.
It is understandable as medications can cause the reduction of appetite and cause nausea which will impact their eating habits. When snacking, it is important to be aware of what and when you are snacking. Having scrumptious healthy snack options will encourage them to have more!
Healthy snacks can help make your loved ones feel energized and can nourish and fill in nutrition gaps. You should give snacks that are based on your loved ones’ specific health requirements. If they have a lack of vitamin C, do serve some oranges and citrus fruits to your loved ones instead! These snacks should include foods that your loved ones enjoy!
At the end of the day, snacking should be enjoyable! If your loved ones are living in a senior living community, they can head down to the dining hall where there are nutritious and healthy snacks available for every resident!
Protein
Often, most older adults do lack the consumption of protein. Protein is important as it aids in tissue repair and helps to strengthen the immune system. They are also used to make hormones and enzymes and are often used as energy sources. Some options you can choose are some whole grain toasts and some hard-boiled eggs, nuts that are dipped in chocolate, chicken salad, and a different variety of cheeses.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are great options but do remember to serve in moderation. Do remember that the timing in which your loved ones snack is important. Carbohydrates tend to be more filling so ensure that the portions are smaller and that they are served a few hours before the next meal. Some carbohydrate options you can consider are oatmeal, healthy granola bars, yummy oatmeal cookies, whole-grain crackers with cheese spread, and pasta!
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are filled with vitamins and minerals. Some older adults may not be too keen on trying them so you would need to make them more appealing! You can choose to make some baked apple or banana chips, a fruit or vegetable smoothie that is filled with vitamins, frozen grapes, greek yogurt with dried blueberries, or peach slices. Having some carrots with hummus is a great option too! There are so many ways to make fruits and vegetables more palatable and enjoyable for your loved ones!
Fiber and Fluids
Sometimes snacks can come in the form of liquids as your loved ones may not be too keen on chewing their foods so much. Constipation and dehydration can cause mobility issues and inadequate fiber and fluid intake. Here are some options to consider: Low-fat milk, tea, decaffeinated coffee, fresh fruit and vegetable smoothies, and even their favorite high fiber cereal!
