Easy Ways to Add More Fruits and Veggies to Your Meals

7 Tips from the Nutrition Experts at Our Independent Living Facility

You hear this all the time—eat more fruits and veggies. Yet, it is easier said than done. Understanding the importance of eating right, especially in your senior years can help correct your diet and avoid many health problems. Vegetables and fruits are an important source of many vitamins and minerals. They help reduce the risk of various diseases such as cancer, obesity, heart disease, stroke, arthritis, asthma, macular degeneration, etc. The nutrition experts at our independent living community in West Hartford, Connecticut share easy ways to increase your intake.

1. Begin the day with a fruit and vegetable smoothie: Combine your favorite fruits and veggies into a delicious breakfast smoothie. This is an ideal way to achieve the 5-a-day requirement. Seniors love the creamy texture, plus it makes it easier for those who may have problems with chewing and biting to consume them. It is also a great way to get your seniors to eat fruits or veggies they do not like. Toss in some ice-cream for a treat.
2. Make breakfast toppings: Fresh fruit makes a delicious topping for oatmeal, waffles, pancakes as well as yogurt. Satisfy your cravings with slices of banana and strawberry or blueberries instead of syrup and sugary items like doughnuts and pastries. Our favorites include Cheerios, Rice Krispies & Chex.
3. Have a pureed soup: In addition to being warm and delicious, soups allow you to combine a variety of veggies in an easy-to-eat meal. Being cooked and pureed, they are also easier for seniors to digest. Choose carrots and peppers (rich in vitamin A) and root vegetables like potatoes and beets to thicken the soup. This is especially beneficial for seniors with a high calorie intake.
4. Add layers to your hamburgers: From onions and tomatoes to different colored peppers and dark lettuce leaves, there are so many ways to fortify your burgers with nutritious embellishments. Roast peppers and onions for soft and sweet, caramelized flavor.
5. Freshen up your spaghetti and pasta: Toss in fresh tomatoes, baby spinach and squash and zucchini (even mushrooms) into your pasta dishes for added flavor and nutrition.
6. Add veggies to your bakes and casseroles: This is a flavorful way to enhance the nutritional value of favorite casseroles and baked dishes. Spinach, tomatoes, peas, and broccoli take mac ‘n’ cheese to the next level. You can also sneak finely shredded zucchini or summer squash into virtually any casserole as they will not change the taste or texture of the dish.
7. Pick healthy snacks, sides and appetizers: Snack on baby carrots and celery instead of chips. Pick a salad instead of fries when you go to a restaurant. Choose steamed vegetables for a side.

At The Holiday independent living community in West Hartford, Connecticut, we provide fresh, flavorful and nutritious meals for our residents. You or your elderly loved ones can retire in style with all the amenities and services they need. From fun-filled activities to delicious dining and tender loving care, we give our residents more than they wished for. For over 45 years, families have relied on us to care for their dear ones.

Give us a call at 860-233-8208 to learn more about the services and amenities we provide at our independent living facility in West Hartford, Connecticut. Fill out our online form to book a tour.