Healthy edibles help elders avoid malnutrition

Good nutrition is always important, but eating healthy becomes more difficult as we age. "When the senses become dulled, it makes food less appetizing," says Liat Golan, licensed dietitian/nutritionist and owner of highly rated Bee Well Nutrition in Tampa Bay, Fla. "Also, some medications may leave a bitter taste, giving foods a bad flavor."

To prevent malnutrition, sample these healthy edibles:

Low-fat dairy products

Some older adults have trouble digesting milk. To protect bone health, eat calcium-rich foods like collard greens and spinach. A calcium supplement, usually paired with vitamin D, can also help.

Light seasoning

As we age, we lose our sense of taste. Make sweet sauces for meats and vegetables using fruit juices, coconut or chunks of fruit. Try honey and butter with a little cayenne pepper on roasted chicken.

Healthy snacks

Many seniors can't eat much in one sitting. To avoid malnutrition, try fresh fruit, vegetable sticks, nuts, olives, yogurt and crackers.

Fiber

Constipation can be a chronic problem, so eat a variety of high-fiber foods every day, such as raw fruits, vegetables and whole grains.