Have you ever noticed your diet habits starting to slip during the winter? Maybe you blame the holidays, relatives in town, or being busy. However, winter time is just as important as ever to stay on top of your eating. Eating right during the winter can help you maintain your weight, keep your health up, boost your energy, and even fight off the flu. A well-balanced diet is such an important part of healthy aging that it can even lead to improved overall health and independence. Here are some of our suggestions to keep your energy levels high while eating nutritiously:
- Opt for Foods High Fiber Foods
Fiber is an important aspect of a well-balanced diet. Not only does fiber help you feel full, it can even prevent heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers. Our favorite high-fiber recipe for a winter evening is this tasty veggie lentil soup recipe. It’s warm, filling and delicious; the perfect meal for a chilly winter night!
Here are some fruits and vegetables that are high in fiber:
- Apples
- Lentils
- Chia Seeds
- Brussel Sprouts
- Broccoli
- Strawberries
- Avocado
- Oat bran
- Add Seasonal Fruits & Vegetables to Meals
We all know how important it is to eat our vegetables. However, in the freezing temperatures of winter, we understand you may not be in the mood for a spring salad or chilled fruits. Research seasonal produce in your area to spruce up your dinner time. Some common winter vegetables are: turnips, leek, radishes, and butternut squash. This delicious Maple-Chili Roasted Butternut Squash is the perfect combination of heat and comfort to help you through a frigid winter night.
Blueberries are delicious winter fruits that contain abundant vitamins and health benefits such as: fiber, Vitamin C, antioxidants, iron, calcium, and magnesium.
- Try a Healthier Dessert
Instead of going for that second (or third) holiday sugar cookie, have fun baking creative and healthy alternatives. Being healthy doesn’t mean having to give up sweets for good! You can try tangy caramelized oranges, delectable no-bake peanut butter cookies, or even a rich healthy pumpkin-chocolate cream cake!
- Keep Up With Your Vitamins
Winter time means shorter days. Shorter days mean less sunlight and Vitamin D! Consider having a talk with your doctor about adding a Vitamin D supplement to your everyday routine. Some healthy foods that are high in Vitamin D are: salmon, canned tuna, shrimp, egg yolks, mushrooms, and milk.
This Garlic-Lovers Salmon in foil is the perfect go-to when you need a little boost in Vitamin D and Omega 3!
At Conservatory Senior Living, we understand what an instrumental role a proper diet plays in healthy aging. That’s why our Sensations Dining program offers healthy and delicious meals made from scratch with whole ingredients. Our Executive Culinary team prepares daily menus filled with international cuisines and homemade favorites prepared to suit every palate. Using only the best ingredients available, our team creates mouthwatering appetizers, entrees, and desserts that keep our resident’s taste buds tingling and body’s healthy. Browse a sample of one of our delicious menus here! And remember, winter is one of the most important times to consume the right seasonal foods that fuel your body and mind!
