Five Nutritious Snacks Every Senior Should Keep Stocked

Whether you crave a cookie with your afternoon tea or a bag of chips while you watch television, snacking between meals has become an integral part of our lives. According to one study, only three percent of respondents stated they never snack, while 57% reported snacking multiple times a day. 

There are many reasons why Americans snack throughout the day. From real thirst or hunger needs to snacking out of boredom, snacking can be habit-forming. That’s why it’s important for all snackers, including older adults, to snack in the healthiest way possible. Healthy snacking allows older adults with low appetites to ingest the nutrition that their bodies need.

February is National Snack Food Month. This month, we invite you to examine your pantry and take stock of your snacking habits. By replacing snacks that offer little nutritious value with healthier choices, snacking can improve your overall health. Here are five nutritious snacks every senior should keep stocked so that there’s always a healthy option within reach.

Raw Nuts

Raw nuts are a great snack to keep stocked because they have a long shelf life and don’t require refrigeration. They are the ideal nutritious snack, providing the perfect balance of healthy fat, fiber, and protein. They are also surprisingly filling. Eating a handful of nuts thirty minutes to one hour before a meal can help prevent overeating. Choose raw or lightly salted nuts to avoid consuming too much sodium.

Light Cheese

Many older adults shy away from snacking on cheese. However, cheese is an excellent source of protein, calcium, vitamins A and B-12, and zinc. Older adults who struggle with a low appetite can get much-needed calories and nutrients by snacking on a piece of cheese. If you’re concerned about the high-fat content found in some cheeses, stick with lower-calorie cheeses, labeled as “light” or “part-skim.”

Fresh Fruits & Vegetables

 Fresh fruits and vegetables are always an excellent snack choice. Set yourself up for success by taking time each week to slice fruits and vegetables. This way, you always have a healthy snack readily available. Most fresh fruits and vegetables will keep for at least a week when refrigerated. If you don’t have the dexterity to prep your produce, purchase pre-sliced vegetables or fruits from your local grocery store. Dip your vegetables in hummus to help combat the bitter flavor and to consume more nutrition in each bite. Hummus is high in fiber, which promotes digestive health.

Yogurt

Like cheese, yogurt is an excellent source of protein and calcium. It’s also filled with bacteria that are very beneficial for our bodies; some varieties even contain probiotics. There are many yogurts to choose from, from incredibly healthy to high in added sugar or flavorings. It’s important to read the nutrition label before selecting a yogurt. Select a variety that is low in added sugar and fat content. Consider trying a plain yogurt and add your own flavorings, such as honey, granola, or fruit, at home.

Homemade Granola

Finally, mix a batch of homemade granola and restock as needed. Why homemade? When you choose to make your own granola, you get to control what’s in it. Use rolled oats as your base, then pack them with nutritious ingredients, such as wheat germ, coconut, sesame seeds, chia seeds, or chopped nuts. Coat with healthy oil, such as coconut oil, and add some honey and vanilla to sweeten it. Bake it in the oven until it’s lightly golden. Once it’s thoroughly cooled, stir in dried fruits to add more flavor and nutrition. If you prefer to purchase granola in the store, look for one that is low in sugar.

As you take stock of your pantry, perhaps it’s time that you take stock of your everyday life. Visiting Angels Richmond offers in-home care for older adults who need assistance to remain safe and independent. Our compassionate caregivers are currently helping clients with various care tasks, from grooming and bathing to laundry and errands. They can also assist with snack planning and preparation so that you always have healthy snacks readily available. Many of our clients find comfort in a familiar, friendly face provided by our company. Please contact us today by calling 804-353-0000 so that we can learn more about your situation.