5 Foods Elderly Should Avoid (2024)

FAQs

5 Foods Elderly Should Avoid? ›

Eat a wide variety of foods from the five food groups : plenty of colourful vegetables, legumes/beans; fruit; grain (cereal) foods, mostly wholegrain and high fibre varieties; lean meats and poultry, fish, eggs, tofu, nuts and seeds; milk, yoghurt, cheese or their alternatives, mostly reduced fat.

Eat a wide variety of foods from the five food groups : plenty of colourful vegetables, legumes/beans; fruit; grain (cereal) foods, mostly wholegrain and high fibre varieties; lean meats and poultry, fish, eggs, tofu, nuts and seeds; milk, yoghurt, cheese or their alternatives, mostly reduced fat.

Choosing a whole-grain bread option is a great way to help seniors who are not eating enough to include more nutrients in their daily diet. Whole-grain bread is also a great source of fiber, which can aid digestive health.

Citrus Fruits for Immunity

Seniors should eat plenty of citrus fruits to obtain enough vitamin C in their day. Vitamin C is known to produce antibodies, which boost immunity and help older adults fight off infections.

Potatoes contain vitamins and nutrients that seniors need to stay healthy. A single 5.2-ounce potato contains 27 mg of vitamin C and 620 mg of potassium. They also contain magnesium, phosphorous, niacin, and folate. It's important to note that the skin of the potato contains many of the nutrients.

The American Heart Association recommends up to one egg a day for most people, fewer for people with high blood cholesterol, especially those with diabetes or who are at risk for heart failure, and up to two eggs a day for older people with normal cholesterol levels and who eat a healthy diet.

Is peanut butter good for senior citizens? ›

Plant-based proteins like peanut butter can help seniors maintain muscle mass, but it also provides more benefits. Plant proteins such as those found in peanuts contain more dietary fiber, which helps to reduce the risk of heart disease and can also help to regulate blood sugar levels.

Due to the variety of nutrients found in eggs, they are an ideal food to include in the diets of older adults. They are also economical, easily prepared and soft in texture which makes them appropriate for people of this age group.

Bananas are a quick and easy source of energy, thanks to their natural sugars and carbohydrates. This can be especially helpful for seniors who may tire easily or need a boost to get through the day. Bananas contain vitamin B6, which is essential for maintaining cognitive function and preventing memory loss.

Your Senior Should Avoid Soft Cheese

Although brie and crackers tend to be a favorite snack, it isn't the best for seniors to munch on. Elderly people and other vulnerable people are particularly susceptible to food illness from mold-ripened cheeses such as brie and camembert.

Eggs contain many of the nutrients which are essential for the healthy ageing and well-being of older adults. These include: Protein: provides energy and is also essential for the repair and maintenance of body tissues. Older adults should aim to have at least 1-2 serves per day of protein-rich foods.

Raw or unpasteurized foods

Older foodies who enjoy sushi, rare hamburgers, and unpasteurized milk and dairy products should be cautious with their dining choices after age 60.

Fried Foods

Fried foods are especially unhealthy for seniors as they are high in saturated and trans fats, which can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and Type 2 diabetes. Eating fried foods too often can contribute to obesity and other health issues.

Your Senior Should Avoid Soft Cheese

Although brie and crackers tend to be a favorite snack, it isn't the best for seniors to munch on. Elderly people and other vulnerable people are particularly susceptible to food illness from mold-ripened cheeses such as brie and camembert.