Many seniors don't have the energy or interest to cook.
Others prefer a less than healthy meal alternative in order to fill the void.
My 82 year old mom for example, wouldn't hesitate to consider a bowl of popcorn or a chocolate covered ice-cream bar a reasonable substitute for a dinner-time meal.
I was recently browsing "The Discovery Health" website and came across some interesting information on the benefits of healthy nutrition for seniors.
They noted: "As you age, you need to make a concerted effort to get more of some nutrients and less of others.
In most cases, it's not because your body actually needs more or less of the nutrient now, but that your body's ability to absorb or retain it has changed, your eating and other lifestyle habits have changed, or you are more vulnerable to diseases that can be affected by too little or too much of a nutrient.
" They go on to reveal that the fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K and the water soluble vitamins such as B and C are essential to a healthy body and even more important as we age to help fight disease.
We all understand that carbohydrates, proteins and fats are measured in grams, and that vitamins and minerals are measured in micrograms, milligrams, and international units.
But finding an easy to digest food source (rather than taking supplements the size of horse pills) with all of these nutrients is sometimes the issue at hand.
So what do we do when we know that proper nutrition is essential to good health for seniors but the desire, ability, or interest is lacking when preparing wholesome meals? One of the tastiest sources of dense nutrition for the body can come in the form of a frosty, protein, vitamin-packed meal substitute shake that can be made in less than 30 seconds.
By adding some fresh fruit, fruit juice, or simple ingredients, you can take an ordinary protein shake and make it into something with pizazz.
For example, try taking two scoops of vanilla protein shake mix and add 1/2 cup of crushed ice, 1/2 cup of cold water, and 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries.
Blend until frosty and presto! A delicious (and nutritious) frozen blueberry meal in a cup.
I also enjoy taking 2 scoops of chocolate meal substitute shake mix and adding 1/2 cup of crushed ice, 1/2 cup of cold water, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla, and and dash of peppermint extract to make a yummy peppermint patty tasting shake.
And my kids? They love one scoop of vanilla with one scoop of chocolate meal substitute shake mix along with a sprinkle of sugar-free/fat-free white chocolate pudding mix with ice and water.
Again, just blend and enjoy a delicious nutrient packed meal! Healthy nutrition for seniors doesn't have to be difficult.
With a little ice, water, and a reliable blender, you can easily turn meal time into a fun and healthy meal.