Good nutrition is important at any age but becomes even more so as we reach midlife and beyond. Eating well and drinking plenty of water gives you energy and can help you control your weight. It may also help prevent some diseases, such as osteoporosis, high blood pressure, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. Not only does it keep your body and mind healthy, but eating well can also be the key to a positive outlook and staying emotionally balanced. But healthy eating doesn’t have to be about dieting and sacrifice. Rather, it should be all about enjoying fresh, tasty, and wholesome foods in the company of friends and family. We can make everyday choices for ourselves and our families that make a real difference in our ability to remain healthy and enjoy life to the fullest. No matter where you’re starting from, eating well is healthy living and leads to improvements in how you think and feel.

It can be as simple as choosing a healthier alternative when we get the munchies, adding a slice of lemon to a glass of water, or making room for more fruits and vegetables on the plate. We often forget that what we are putting into our bodies is the fuel we need to go about our days. Those little changes to our eating habits can make a big difference in the long run.

Here are some simple and easy actions we’ve come up with to help make healthy choices: 

• Consider making substitutions. Instead of fries as your side, a green leafy strawberry salad can be a better option.
• Keep an eye on the extra salt and sugar that you’re adding to your dish. Low salt or sugar-free items are the way to go.
• Go for whole grains instead of white bread or rice.
• Make your plate colorful and keep the four food groups in mind! Typically, the brighter the color of the food, the more nutritious it is.
• Drink more water. Sometimes we may think we’re hungry but all our body needs is a nice refreshing glass of water. Stay hydrated and drink, drink, drink!
• Lastly, if you’re unsure and need some guidance don’t be afraid to ask your server for tips and tricks to healthy-up your meal!

At Harbour Landing Village, we look out for the health and well-being of our residents, and the food they’re eating is a big part of that! In relation to this month’s theme of eating well to live well, we’ve provided the resources throughout the month to learn more about what’s going into our bodies and the opportunity to make healthier choices. To name just a few, we’ve listened to invited professionals speak about the topic, nutritional pamphlets have been placed at every dinner table to promote healthy eating, nutritious delicious snacks are prepared for the snack table and events, and so much more. With the help of our Red Seal certified Chef, Chris Miller, Roots Kitchen & Bar, plans, prepares, cooks, and serves meals with this in mind. At the very start of May, we will be launching Roots En-Route.

It’s a senior meal-to-go delivery service that offers great-tasting food from your local restaurant, Roots Kitchen and Bar. These fresh, delicious, and nutritious meals can be easily reheated and stored in the fridge or freezer for later. Click here for details.

We place health and safety at the top of priorities because healthy eating is important for anyone as they grow and age, building and contributing to their future selves. The entire Harbour Landing Community and every Reginian’s dining needs are at the heart of this establishment, knowing eating does not have to be all about dieting and sacrifice but rather enjoying fresh, tasty food and wholesome ingredients.

Remember, you are what you eat.  Eat to live, feel and be well! 

Reference: https://medlineplus.gov/nutritionfor olderadults.html