Seniors at Residences at Deer Creek and Coffee Creek have a real advantage when it comes to dining. Every day, every meal is chef-prepared and delicious. Add “nutritious” to that list, because special diets are always accommodated for residents. But they also partake in meals at local restaurants or visit family and friends especially during the holiday season. For everyone’s enjoyment and continued good health, we’d like to offer tips and reminders to keep it all jolly.
Everyone’s eating, maybe drinking, and being merry these next few weeks but if your regular diet is special to your health needs, it’s important to think of your guidelines as positives, not as a focus on restrictions. Think of it this way: although many friends may over-indulge that won’t be your experience. You’ll feel good and also satisfied because you stayed within your special guidelines.
Will you be going to a restaurant for a family or friends gathering? Will you be traveling? That probably means stopping for a snack or lunch break; suddenly you’re tempted with all sorts of choices, some less desirable! Pack those readers before venturing out! You’ll need them to check the fine print for info on carbs, fats, sodium, etc. before you make your food selection. Here’s an extra tip: ask your grandkids to google it for you!
Focus on favored foods like fruit, veggies, protein; whatever your diet recommends. In fact, make an extra effort to keep these fresh and available whether you’re staying at home, visiting relatives out of town or even close by—pack a snack bag for yourself, just to keep on track. You’re regularly disciplined with your meal preparation so you can continue on during holidays, too. You can eat healthy, and probably even enjoy one small something you normally don’t keep in your kitchen.
Sometimes others don’t understand the importance of staying true to a special diet. When you’re encouraged to “just try this cake” or pour on the turkey gravy, just take a polite taste and let everyone, including yourself, move on! Maintain your normal portion controls, too. It’s what your digestive system is used to on a daily basis.
STAY HYDRATED! Don’t forget to increase your water intake—it’s winter, the air is naturally drier, you’re indoors where it’s nice and warm but drier, and if you notice even your skin is drier! Really pay attention to caffeine intake—another winter “thing” that can sneak up on us as we seek to get cozy with a cup! Opt for herbal teas rather than teas that contain caffeine. Ask for decaf or half and half coffees. Pack a bottle or two of water wherever you go. Do you think we should leave a bottle of water for Santa with those cookies? Santa is a senior, after all!
