Eating better as you age doesn’t have to be a complicated endeavor. A few thoughtful changes to your routine can allow you to access fresh food, making eating better more attainable than you might think. Our guide to better eating for seniors explores how to access fresh food in simple steps, helping you enjoy meals that nourish your body and lifestyle.
Fresh Food in Simple Steps
Learn some tips for growing your own food and making the most of what you already have.
Shop at a Farmer’s Market
There’s something truly special about visiting a fresh farmer’s market, especially for older adults wanting to improve their diet. Farmer’s markets offer various seasonal produce, picked at peak ripeness for the best nutrition and flavor.
From fall’s crisp apples to summer’s vibrant tomatoes, seasonal fruits tend to be more nutrient-dense than their off-season counterparts. Adding these fresh finds to your meals can elevate your health and culinary creations.
Another plus of shopping at a farmer’s market? Local vendors are usually happy to share recipe ideas or tips for preparing their offerings, making it easier to turn your purchases into satisfying and simple meals.
Add More Variety to Your Diet
Choose whole foods, such as legumes, whole grains, and fresh fruits when shopping for ingredients. You can also keep pantry staples, such as oatmeal, canned beans, and frozen vegetables and fruits, for days when you don’t have the energy to cook.
Swapping out overly processed foods for these options can lower sodium and additives in your diet, giving you more natural energy to do what you love.
Cooking at home also gives you greater control over the ingredients in your meals, helping you reduce unnecessary sodium or added sugars. Experimenting with spices and homemade dressings can add flavor without compromising on nutrition. Make meals even more enjoyable by experimenting with spices and herbs, many of which are easy to grow at home.
Better Eating Can Begin in Your Backyard
Speaking of growing ingredients at home, producing your own fresh food in simple steps supports better eating for seniors. Gardening can be advantageous for older adults, as it renders a fresh supply of fruits and vegetables while keeping them active and connected to nature.
Focus on low-maintenance crops, such as lettuce, spinach, and herbs. These plants are hardy and grow quickly, giving you an immediate sense of achievement. Plus, tending to a garden can brighten your day and provide some of the healthiest additions to your plate.
Starting Small-Scale Farming
Augment your gardening by starting a small farm if you really want to flex your green thumb. Consider using a pole barn to support this venture. These versatile structures can support various needs, from storing farming tools to housing chickens.
With a pole barn, you can raise chickens who’ll produce fresh, nutrient-rich eggs. Having a dedicated space for your farming efforts makes the venture more accessible, whether you construct the pole barn yourself or have it professionally built. A pole barn also offers protection for seasonal harvests with proper ventilation and storage capabilities, keeping your fresh food supply intact.
Making better food choices doesn’t mean a total overhaul of your lifestyle. Small steps can have a big impact, whether you’re trying out raised-bed gardening, investing in a barn for your small farm, or tweaking your everyday recipes. Choose what works for you and enjoy the process of making meals that fill your plate and bring you good health and joy.
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