Eating healthy foods is one of – if not the best – ways to stay healthy as you get older. A healthy diet provides ample energy to get through the day and nutrients to ward off illnesses. In this blog, we have talked at length about the types of foods you should include in your diet. But which ones should you avoid? Here are six groups of problematic foods and drinks that senior citizens may wish to avoid if they are trying to maintain optimal health.

Medication-inhibiting foods: Because seniors are often taking more medications compared to the average person, they are at a higher risk of ingesting foods that happen to inhibit or lessen the impact of their medicine. Some common foods and drinks that might put you at risk are alcohol, dairy, grapefruit, and even licorice. Even some over-the-counter medicines, such as Tylenol, have risks, albeit particularly with alcohol. Because medications and their risks vary, always ask your doctor if your particular regimen has any associated risks.
Fried Foods: Some of the most common ailments among seniors are diabetes and heart-related issues. Fried foods, while delicious, are among the most problematic foods for seniors. They are chock full of trans fats and unhealthy oils, which have been shown to raise cholesterol and harm your overall cardiovascular health. Instead, try filling that craving with healthy fats such as nuts and avocados, which tend to be full of more beneficial unsaturated blends of fats.
Caffeine: Caffeine, as a stimulant, can have a wide variety of effects on the body. People with issues related to their cardiovascular system might suffer more significant consequences because of the increased heart rate incurred after drinking large amounts of coffee, tea, or soda. Caffeine, in large doses, also contributes to dehydration. Seniors with a history of lightheadedness or injuries related to falling should supplement caffeine products with a healthy amount of water.
Alcohol: As with most things, moderation is key. All heavy drinkers could benefit from a moderation of alcohol use. Still, seniors, particularly those with liver problems, will receive a more concentrated amount of alcohol in their bloodstream compared to a younger person drinking the same amount. A small drink here or there might be okay for some, but the delayed reactions and impaired cognitive abilities from excessive alcohol use are especially dangerous for older Americans. As previously mentioned, alcohol might have unintended side effects with medications, and many physicians recommend that people over age 65 cut alcohol out of their diet entirely.
High-calorie, low-nutrient foods: The goal of eating should not be simply stopping hunger, and foods full of healthy nutrients and vitamins should be the first thing you grab for. Generally, the food you eat most during any given meal should not be something derived from sugars and fats. Pastries, candies, and full-fat dairy items are good for a snack but not the main course. Stick to the old adage: “Fill your plate with the colors of the rainbow. What pleases the eye, pleases the body.”
Salty foods: Another thing that everyone should strive for is a limitation on the amount of sodium they ingest daily. However, seniors who consume high amounts of sodium daily can develop high blood pressure over time, increasing their risk of stroke and various heart diseases. The American Heart Association recommends at most 1500mg per day for most adults. If you are routinely going over this amount, find healthy alternatives to foods you eat or cut some out entirely.

Of course, the above recommendations are general guidelines. Any senior citizen looking to change their diet for health purposes should consult with their physician as to any concerns they may have. Once your physician has approved your new regimen, feel free to incorporate it into your daily routine. Those living in assisted living can speak with the staff to see about avoiding certain problematic foods in their meals.

A Banyan Residence provides quality assisted living and memory care to those in The Villages.