Cooking and eating well in our 70s, 80s, 90s...
Created on 6/3/2008
For those of us in our retirement years, or who have parents in their 60s, 70s and beyond, eating healthily can be associated with some new challenges. Many of us lose our enthusiasm for cooking and begin to rely on take-out meals or eating out more frequently. While I'm in favor of splurging on occasion by treating oneself to a nice restaurant meal, there's nothing like knowing the person who has prepared your meal with love and care - even if that person is you!
We actually require fewer calories as we age, but the yourwellness team's general recommendations for healthy eating still hold true: Asian- and Mediterranean-style diets appear to be best for us, with their emphasis on healthy fats and oils, fish, fruits and vegetables, and nuts. Limiting intake of saturated and trans fats is sage advice, as is avoiding fried foods and exercising appropriately.
Regarding easy ways to create healthy meals, some of my favorites include using a slow cooker or crockpot, quickly mixing some healthy ingredients for a home-made soup, making breakfast smoothies full of fruit, and having oatmeal on a regular basis (even for a light lunch or dinner!).
In addition, each of Ms. D's parents is facing some health issues. Ms. D's mother is experiencing memory problems. Some medical experts believe that enjoying curry dishes on a regular basis may be of help. Studies of the herbal supplement / spice turmeric and of curry, both of which contain the compound curcumin, suggest possible memory- and brain-protecting effects. Ms. D should ask her mother's doctor if these foods might be appropriate.
Ms. D's father has high cholesterol for which he takes medication. Providing his doctor says it is safe to do so, enjoying some of the following foods and drink on a regular basis, together with his medicines, may help better control his cholesterol: red chili peppers, onions, garlic, shiitake mushrooms, green tea, and perhaps soy products.
I hope this is of help to you, Ms. D, and don't forget to check out our "Healthy Aging" brochure later in the year.
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