Are you aware that your dietary needs and habits actually change as you age? Statistics from the National Association of Nutrition and Aging revealed that one out of every two older Americans is at risk for malnutrition. Additionally, bodily functions are continuously adjusting, so what used to work in your diet might not work for you five years down the line. This is why understanding how to properly fuel your body is important — it also dictates how you’ll be living your life. If you need help figuring out your nutritional needs and where to get them, then keep reading.

Learn to listen to your body

Older people tend to eat less due to a loss of appetite, according to Healthline. This can be largely due to changes in the body. People with dental problems can find it hard to chew meats and hard foods. Additionally, the taste receptors and sense of smell gradually weaken with age as well, so some foods might not be as appetizing as they used to be. You need to understand these changes in your body and try your best to work with them. Eating softer foods or eating more fruits and vegetables can help, and try putting in more herbs and spices to your dishes as well. Trying out new recipes can also keep your daily life exciting.

Start eating intuitively

Maybe you struggle with maintaining a diet because you view various foods as “good” or “bad”. Restricting yourself to certain diets can also put you at risk for malnutrition and ill health. The lack of calcium, iron, zinc, B vitamins, and E vitamins could lead to conditions like heart disease, cancer, and osteoporosis. That said, it may be beneficial for older adults to start learning how to eat intuitively. This entails tapping into your body’s natural ability to tell you when you’re hungry or satisfied. WebMD encourages you to pay attention to hunger pangs and to pay attention to fullness. That way, you can choose foods that satisfy both your health needs and your taste buds.

Talk to your healthcare provider

People with existing health conditions need to be more vigilant when it comes to specific nutritional needs. Consult with your doctor, or ask them to refer you to a dietitian, nutritionist or Intuitive Eating Health Coach. Fortunately, you won't need to worry about out-of-pocket fees if you have Medicare. KelseyCare Advantage explains how nutritional counseling can be covered by Medicare Part B, as long as your doctor thinks that it's medically necessary. Medicare may cover nutritionist or dietitian fees for an initial consultation, therapy sessions, assistance with managing lifestyle factors, and even succeeding visits. With a more personalized assessment, you’ll be sure you’re getting all the nutrients you require.

Plan healthy meals

Finally, follow through by shopping for ingredients suited to your health needs. Generally, any hearty meal emphasizes fruit, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and lean protein sources. It’s also recommended that you avoid saturated fats, trans fats, and high amounts of salt and sugar. Moreover, in our article "Mindful Eating - The Path Away From Diet Culture", we highlight how being mindful and present during mealtimes can lead you to better food choices, and ultimately encourage you to develop better-eating habits. The more prepared you are for your meals, the less likely you’ll be tempted to reach for unhealthier food choices.

Your body requires different types of nourishment as you age. Therefore, it's vital that you take that time to recognize its needs before making drastic changes to your eating habits. This way, you're maximizing the health benefits of your diet. For more articles to help you on your health and wellness journey, visit our blog at Lisa Dahl Wellness.