The Importance of Eating Well
Sep 27, 2022
Why do we need to eat well?
Even small changes matter when it comes to healthy eating. Ensuring you eat from the 5 food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, protein and dairy and drinking plenty of water is key.
It is important to create variety in the foods we eat, ensuring they come from each food group as they all provide different amounts and types of nutrients to our bodies.
Foods high in sugars, salt and saturated fats provide fewer nutrients. Our bodies do not need these foods. Usually high in energy content, these foods can lead to weight gain and should only form a small part of your diet.
Eating well as we age can help to:
- Improve our blood pressure and cholesterol levels
- Gain more energy
- Reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases
- Improve oral health and bone strength
- Protect from infections
How to make healthy food choices
Currently, diet-related chronic diseases are a major cause of death and disability among Australians. Preferences for food can be affected by an array of factors including personal preferences, cultural backgrounds, and philosophical choices (vegetarian and vegan).
Many problems due to poor diet in Australia stem from excessive intake of fried and fatty foods, pastries, cakes and biscuits, chips, and sugary drinks. With food consumption and nutrition closely linked to our overall quality of life, careful thought and creativity with mealtimes are required in aged care.
As nutrition professionals, we recommend providing choices when offering meals to aged care residents. This is important in avoiding meal rejection, which could result in nutritional deficiencies, weight loss and poorer physical health.
Benefits of eating well
Important at any age, eating a healthy and balanced diet is necessary to keep your body and mind healthy. Healthy eating doesn’t have to be about sacrifice, but rather about enjoying wholesome and fresh-tasting meals which your Accredited Practising Dietitian can help you with.
Live stronger
Boost immunity, fight illness, and reduce the risk of stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, and cancer through a balanced diet.
Fuel your mind
Fruit, leafy vegetables, fish, and nuts packed with anti-oxidants and omega-3 fatty acids can assist in improving focus and increase mental alertness.
Feel better on the inside and out
Eating wholesome meals can enhance energy levels and boost your mood. Everything is connected. If you are fuelling your body with quality food, your body will thank you from the inside, and out.
