How to Ensure the Elderly Consume Healthy Snacks Each Day

By Delan Cooper−

One: Flavored Yogurt

Nutritious snacks for the elderly are a vital part of their daily food plans because many seniors need to consume small portions. Flavored yogurt is a simple snack that is loaded with calcium to build strong bones and is available in every grocery store, or you can prepare it with a yogurt maker.

Two: Eggs

Eggs are quick to cook, and you can prepare hard-boil eggs ahead of time to keep in a refrigerator or make deviled eggs as a special treat. If an elderly individual is on a soft food diet or has dental health issues, then a scrambled egg is a great way to get additional protein.

Three: Dried Fruit

When a senior citizen is craving something sweet to eat for a snack, consider dried fruit such as raisins, apricots or cranberries. Make sure to read labels carefully when buying ready-made dried fruit to make sure it does not have added sugar.

Four: Cereal and Baked Goods

You probably think that baked goods and cereal are not good ideas for healthy snacks for seniors, but this is not true. To control calories from margarine and sugar, make cookies and cakes at home from scratch using special recipes. A warm bowl of oatmeal made with steel-cut oats is full of fiber and vitamins.

Five: Chopped Vegetables

Everyone should consume fresh vegetables several times a day, and this is one of the most nutritious snacks for the elderly. Cut celery, bell peppers and carrots into thin strips before placing the items in sealed containers to keep refrigerated for use later. It is also acceptable to have a small portion of dip with fresh vegetables.

Six: Seeds and Nuts

Nuts are often neglected as snacks by the elderly because this food is high in fat, but it is a good type of fact that increases brain health. Choose prepackaged seeds and nuts such as walnuts, pecans and sunflower seeds with the shells removed to make it easier for an elderly person to eat these foods.

Seven: Fresh Fruit

Bags of fresh fruit are an economical and nutritious choice for senior citizens who enjoy eating slices of apples, peaches or pears for an evening snack.

Eight: Cheese Cubes

Senior citizens need to consume calcium to protect their bones and teeth, and cheese cubes are delicious for mid morning or afternoon snacks. It is possible to buy cheese cubes at a supermarket, but you can also prepare your own before sealing the items in small portions inside plastic bags.

Nine: Tasty Beverages

Ideas for healthy snacks for the elderly include tasty beverages such as coffee, tea and cocoa. There is new evidence that these beverages can provide essential antioxidants that help to increase overall well-being. Use dark chocolate to make your cocoa, choose high-quality beans to make your coffee, and drink green tea instead of regular tea.

Ten: Smoothies

Prepare a cold smoothie drink on a hot day rather than having a sugary soft drink that has no nutritional value. You can make a smoothie by adding fresh or frozen fruit such as bananas, pineapple and strawberries along with plain yogurt, cold water and crushed ice.

Delan Cooper is an inspirational writer. He is part of crews at Real Estate Academy Australia (Brisbane’s real estate licensing, training, coaching and certification specialists), working with entrepreneurs and small business owner to grow their careers and achieve results that raise the standards of professionalism and respect in the Real Estate industry.