Neglecting your nutrition is one of the most common health problems in older adults. Eating too many high-fat foods and not exercising is a combination that leads to diabetes and heart disease in many older adults. Malnutrition opens the door to a number of medical conditions. It is important not to neglect your nutrition. Here are some tips to help you maintain good nutrition:

• Eat plenty of high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, and beans and whole grains.
• Cut down on high-fat foods.
• Consider taking a daily vitamin and mineral supplement as dietary insurance.
• Avoid too much salt.
• Keep plenty of easily prepared nutritious foods handy to snack on.
• To keep bones strong, you have to get plenty of calcium and get exercise as well.
• Ask your healthcare provider for your ideal body weight and try to stay near that.
• If you don't have energy to cook, think about getting Meals on Wheels or low-cost meals at your local senior center.
• Getting a microwave oven makes cooking much simpler.

As you grow older, you may lose some of your sense of smell or sense of taste. This means you may need to have more highly seasoned food in order to be able to enjoy it. There are many spices that won't upset your digestion but will add flavor. Some may even help aid digestion.

A good nutritionist may be able to help you with your diet. Many times nutritionists may be available for consultation through your local senior center or health care facility.

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