Benefits of Healthy Eating
As You Get Older!

Eating Well Promotes Health and Energy
Eating a balanced mix of foods every day has many health benefits. For instance, eating well may reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, bone loss, some kinds of cancer, and anemia. If you already have one or more of these chronic diseases, eating well and being physically active may help you better manage them. Healthy eating may also help you reduce high blood pressure, lower high cholesterol, and manage diabetes.

By consuming enough calories — a way to measure the energy you get from food –you give your body the fuel it needs throughout the day. The number of calories needed depends on how old you are, whether you’re a man or woman, your height and weight, and how active you are. Check with your doctor or registered dietitian.

Food Choices Affect Digestion
Your food choices also affect your digestion. Not getting enough fiber or fluids may cause constipation. Eating more whole-grain foods with fiber, fruits and vegetables or drinking more water may help with constipation.

Make One Change at a Time
To eat healthier, you can begin by taking small steps, making one change at a time. You might take the salt shaker (or soy sauce) off your table. Switch to whole-grain bread, seafood, or more vegetables and fruits when you shop.

Eating well isn’t just a “diet” or “program”, it is part of a www lifestyle that you can adopt now and stay with in the years to come.