Surprising Foods Seniors Should Avoid For Better Health
Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for a vibrant retirement, but as we age, certain foods may become more problematic. Experts suggest making mindful changes, especially after 65, to ensure better health and well-being. “It’s the habits you follow most days that matter,” says Dr. Amit Shah, an internal medicine specialist at the Mayo Clinic. Below are seven foods to be cautious about after 65, as they could lead to health complications.
Over-easy eggs may be a tasty breakfast, but they pose a risk for older adults due to the potential for salmonella contamination. Registered dietician Amanda Holtzer recommends frying eggs thoroughly—at least two to three minutes—so that the whites are fully set and the yolk, if runny, has only a slight jiggle. This ensures a safer cooking method, especially for older individuals whose immune systems may be more vulnerable.
Canned fruit may seem like a convenient option, but it’s not as nutritious as fresh alternatives. Dr. Colleen Christmas, a geriatrics physician, warns that canned fruits have significantly lower vitamin C levels, and their added sugars can promote inflammation. For the most benefits, choose fresh fruit over canned options whenever possible.
Raw oysters and other shellfish are best avoided, particularly by older adults. The USDA advises against eating raw or undercooked shellfish and fish due to the risk of bacterial infections. This includes avoiding raw eggs, soft cheeses, raw meats, and unpasteurized products, which can also be hazardous to health in older adults.
Grapefruit is a healthy fruit, but its juice can interfere with certain medications, especially those used to treat high cholesterol, depression, anxiety, and insomnia. According to the National Council on Aging, grapefruit juice can interfere with the effectiveness of medications, making other fruit juices like orange, cranberry, or tomato juice a safer choice.
Excessive caffeine from coffee or tea can lead to sleep disturbances, increased anxiety, and even heart problems in older adults, particularly those with preexisting conditions. Sun Health Communities cautions that caffeine can affect heart rhythms and make it harder to get restful sleep, which is essential for overall health.
While soup can be a healthy meal option, many commercially prepared varieties are high in sodium. Dr. Shah advises caution when consuming canned or pre-packaged soups, particularly for individuals with heart conditions, as excessive sodium can worsen heart-related issues like congestive heart failure.
Lastly, artificial sweeteners found in diet sodas have been linked to serious health concerns, including obesity, sugar cravings, and depression. Research suggests that regularly consuming artificially sweetened sodas can increase the risk of vascular events like heart attacks and strokes. As we age, it’s important to minimize consumption of these products for better cardiovascular health.
Discussion about this post