Eating to Live Well

The right foods can help you maintain strength, energy, and independence so you can continue doing the things you enjoy. As we get older, our bodies need slightly different things from food. Protein helps maintain muscle strength and mobility, calcium and vitamin D support bone health, fibre keeps digestion, and healthy fats support heart and brain health. Staying hydrated helps with energy and concentration.

A simple way to build a balanced meal is to include:

• Protein such as eggs, fish, lean meat, beans, or yoghurt
• Plenty of vegetables or salad for fibre, colour, and nutrients
• Wholegrains or starchy vegetables for energy
• Healthy fats like olive oil, nuts, avocado, and oily fish for heart and brain health
• Regular fluids such as water, milk, tea, coffee and soups.

If your appetite has changed, smaller meals throughout the day and easy snacks such as yoghurt, cheese and crackers, or nuts can help ensure you’re still getting the nutrition you need. Most importantly, food should still be enjoyable. The pleasure of a well-prepared meal, familiar flavours, and sharing food with others all contribute to wellbeing.

Eating well doesn’t need to be complicated. Regular meals, a variety of foods, and plenty of fluids can make a big difference in supporting a healthy, active life. Here's a popular favourite in the Arvida community kitchens..