Good Health On Your Plate- Smart Cooking Hacks For Seniors

Updated on May 26, 2022

As you grow older, you need to be extra conscious of your health. It makes sense to adapt your diet so that you can get adequate nutrients while ensuring the good taste and easy digestion. At the same time, there is a need to be aware of food safety because you wouldn’t want to fall sick by consuming an unhealthy diet. Thankfully, there are some simple cooking hacks that can make things much easier for seniors. Here are the ones to embrace for bringing good health on your plate.

Be selective about what you eat

Aging adults need to be selective about dietary choices, basically sticking to a balanced diet that is high in protein and vitamins. Opt for fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts and seeds as they load up on nutrients and keep you energetic throughout the day. Additionally, they are easy to digest and prevent constipation due to high fiber content. Steer clear of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats as they can elevate the blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Apart from picking the right foods, focus on having smaller meals several times a day.

Have a weekly meal plan 

Another smart cooking hack for seniors is to have a weekly meal plan, whether you cook for yourself or do it for elderly parents. You can do it every weekend and stock up groceries for the entire week ahead to avoid making repeated trips to the grocery store. A well-planned weekly menu makes it easier to cook and ensures variety in meals, which obviously feels good. Also, give yourself the opportunity to eat your favorites though in moderation because you wouldn’t want to be deprived of the foods you love. Use healthy ingredients to experiment with cooking.

Switch to healthy cooking techniques

Healthy cooking techniques like baking, sautéing, steaming and roasting are great for cutting down the intake of unhealthy oils and fats. This makes them just apt for seniors who want to switch to a healthy lifestyle without compromising with the taste. Consider investing in utensils with high-quality non-stick coatings for your kitchen because these minimize the oil usage while cooking. Food does not stick on the surface of non-stick pots and pans, so you need not struggle to clean them after meals. For those that do want to use a healthier oil, check out Gundry MD Olive Oil coupon to get a discount, and these oils will support a healthy heart, skin, and health overall! 

Go the extra mile with hygiene 

Apart from choosing healthy diets and cooking techniques, aging adults need to go the extra mile with hygiene. Essentially, it is about taking the requisite preventive measures to ensure the food you are cooking is safe and will not make you sick. Buy fresh stuff and check the expiry dates as you pick them from the grocery shelves. Avoid using the same cutting boards for meat and vegetables. Another tip for seniors is to skip eating leftovers and stale food as they can make you sick. Wash your hands before and after cooking to cut down the risk of contamination. 

A little effort goes a long way in making life healthier for seniors, particularly when it comes to cooking. Go ahead and try these hacks to live healthier, happier, and longer! 

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Senior Outlook Today is your go-to source for information, inspiration, and connection as you navigate the later years of life. Our team of experts and writers is dedicated to providing relevant and engaging content for seniors, covering topics such as health and wellness, finances, technology and travel.