As we age, we need to take a closer look at what we are putting into our bodies. Our diets are bound to change, especially when we have certain medical conditions. Ensuring that we get enough fresh and nutrient-dense foods in the dishes we eat is important. Healthy food doesn’t have to taste bland or be boring and we can still have our chips and sweet treats but just remember that everything must be in moderation.
If you are running out of ideas for delicious and healthy snacks that you can easily make at home, don’t worry. We’ve got you covered!
Avocado Dip or Spread
The avocado is an interesting fruit. It packs several health benefits and is considered a healthy fat that our bodies need. With simple ingredients like avocado, Greek yogurt, a little squeeze of lime or lemon, and a pinch of salt, you’ve got an avocado dip for your whole-wheat crackers and raw vegetables or a spread for your toast. You can even add some garlic powder to ramp up the flavor or a bit of paprika for an extra spicy kick.
Vegetables and Hummus
You might think of raw celery or carrot sticks when you hear about healthy snacks. Let’s face it, they’re really healthy and good for you but they are incredibly bland and boring foods that won’t get you excited for snacking. So, why not add a delicious dip to make them taste a little better? Some hummus on the side can be a gamechanger. This healthy and scrumptious dip is made with chickpeas, olive oil, tahini, garlic, and some lemon juice. Hummus is packed with nutrient-dense ingredients that will also help fight inflammation, which can be a common issue for older adults.
Fruit Popsicles
You might usually reach for an ice-cream cone to beat the heat on a hot day but older adults should be eating less of these sugary treats. A scoop of ice cream contains a whopping 22 grams of sugar and is also full of saturated fats. Instead, opt for a fruit popsicle made with your favorite fruits and yogurt. Blend it and pop it in the freezer for a cool snack on a warm day.
Turkey Wraps
For some extra protein to meet your daily intake, try some turkey wraps. Protein is an important part of your diet as it helps you maintain muscle mass and prevent muscle loss as you age. For a turkey wrap, you need slices of turkey and some cheese. It’s that easy and you can even get creative and add some other ingredients that you might enjoy, such as some fresh vegetables for a satisfying crunch.
Popcorn With Nutritional Yeast
It’s everyone’s go-to movie snack but do you know that popcorn is an amazingly healthy snack when it isn’t dripping with butter or coated in caramel. When served plain, it is a whole grain rich in complex carbohydrates and fiber. However, eating plain popcorn sounds sad, so you can add some nutritional yeast to give it a kind of nuttiness and add some flavor to this simple snack.
