Food Connects Us

Picture of Kali McCrackin Goodenough

Kali McCrackin Goodenough

Picture of Mindy Meuli

Mindy Meuli

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Why Food Connections Matter for Healthy Aging

Food is often a foundation for our relationships, traditions, and culture. It is also a key part of our health. As we age, the food we eat can play a critical role in managing and preventing chronic diseases. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans focus on the importance of eating a variety of foods from around MyPlate. This includes fruits, vegetables, dairy, grains, and protein. Eating a variety of foods can help you get the nutrients you need for healthy aging. Connecting through food can benefit your physical health, as well as your mental and emotional wellbeing.

3 Ways to connect through food:

  • Plan to eat more meals with family, friends, and/or community during the week. Start with 1 or 2 days, as your schedule allows. Food has a way of bringing people together. Meals can be a space for connecting with others and making memories.
  • Add variety to your plate. Variety provides new flavors and textures. It also helps ensure you get all the nutrients you need for good health.
  • Try cooking at home more often. Cooking at home lets you have more control over what you are eating. It gives you the opportunity to add different foods to your plate or try new ways of cooking that benefit health.
It is never too late to make a small change for your health. Small changes add up and can make a big difference over time.

Source: https://www.eatright.org/health/wellness/awareness-campaigns/50-ideas-to-get-involved-in-national-nutrition-month

Nutrition Highlight: Vitamin B12

Mindy Meuli, MS, RD MyPlate recommends varying your protein foods, which are a key source of vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 an important nutrient for brain function, red blood cell production, and preventing depression. Getting adequate B12 can help prevent anemia, fatigue, muscle weakness, and mood changes. It can help improve cognitive skill and memory.

The ability to absorb vitamin B12 decreases with age. Some medications may also decrease absorption. Boost your consumption of Vitamin B12 by adding a variety of protein foods to your plate. Meat, poultry, and eggs are all good protein sources of B12. Additional sources include dairy and fortified foods, such as cereals and breads.

Source: https://www.myplate.gov/life-stages/older-adults

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