By Greg Pascucci
March is National Nutrition Month and this year’s theme is “Celebrate the World of Flavors.” Created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the campaign serves as a reminder to all of us to make informed food choices and develop healthy eating and physical activity habits.
For older adults, good nutrition is especially important. As we age, our bodies process food differently, which can affect our dietary needs, appetite and even how food tastes. Although there may be a natural decline in one’s appetite during aging, maintaining a well-balanced diet is key to overall health and wellness.
Healthy eating has been proven to reduce the effects of osteoporosis, high blood pressure, heart disease, gastrointestinal ailments and chronic malnutrition.
Here are a few tips for incorporating the “world of flavors” into your diet:
1. Enhance Dishes with Herbs and Spices
According to the National Institute of Health, seniors may experience a decline in taste or smell, causing them to begin adding too much sugar or salt to food to improve the flavor. This, in turn, can impact their health long term.
Experts recommend first seeking the advice of a doctor to be sure the decline is not connected to an underlying issue such as an upper respiratory infection. Then, consider using herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of food without adding extra calories or sodium.
At The Carlisle Naples, an active retirement community, Executive Chef Marlon Perez uses a variety of fresh herbs and spices to naturally kick up the intensity of foods. In addition to cooking with more well-known herbs, he also seeks out flavors from around the world such as cumin, a staple in South Indian curry pastes and a rich source of iron, and lemongrass, an essential ingredient in Thai cooking known for its antioxidant properties.
2. Be Adventurous
Eating the same foods over a prolonged period can become routine, causing us to indulge in unhealthy food choices. To avoid the monotony, try stepping outside your comfort zone. Spring offers the perfect time to taste-test antioxidant-rich, immune-boosting food options such as pomegranates, quinoa and kefir and discover new restaurants specializing in foods from other countries.
Cooking magazines, international grocers and even the internet can help guide your search to discover new healthy foods.
To please the palate and keep residents’ appetite sharp, The Carlisle offers a rotating menu, incorporating everything from traditional comfort foods to delicious, yet nutritious FreshZest options, highlighting a plant-based diet.
“The culinary team works closely with the Zest Department to celebrate national and international holidays. Whether a festive Asian-inspired menu for Chinese New Year or a delicious St. Patrick’s Day dinner with Irish favorites, we frequently “celebrate the world of flavors” at The Carlisle,” said Chef Perez, whose background includes serving as the Banquet Chef at the prestigious Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach. “Plus, our staff represents many nationalities, perfect for infusing culinary delights from around the globe.”
3. Make it Fun
Do you know Ethiopian food generally doesn’t require utensils to eat? Instead, diners tear off a piece of injera, a soft fermented flatbread with a slightly spongy texture, and use it to grab food before putting it directly into their mouths. And, in French culture, it is considered impolite to bite directly into a piece of bread (it should be torn first).
These are just a few interesting etiquette tips you can uncover about different cultures and ethnicities. Consider researching a country or region, learning about their most popular foods and then finding a local restaurant specializing in its cuisine. Collier County offers numerous opportunities to “celebrate the world of flavors,” with restaurants offering Mediterranean and Eastern European cuisine to Caribbean and Latin American specialties.
The Carlisle’s maintenance-free lifestyle means residents no longer have to worry about cooking. However, they can still enjoy freshly made, mouth-watering menu choices with international flavors. A monthly dining club also invites residents to explore local eateries to explore various cultures through food.
“Though there is no one-size-fits-all guide for proper nutrition, making small, gradual changes can make a significant impact on our health,” explained Chef Perez. “Healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. Add the flavors of other cultures to spice up your diet to ensure a well-rounded dining experience.”
Located at 6945 Carlisle Court in Naples, The Carlisle offers independent and assisted living lifestyles featuring spacious one-and two-bedroom residences, weekly housekeeping and flat linen services, basic cable TV, all utilities except telephone, and delicious dining with daily, chef-prepared specials. The community is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), an important distinction that provides residents with the assurance that the highest standards of quality care, services and safeguards are maintained.
For more information about the community, please call 239-221-0017 or visit www.TheCarlisleNaples.com.
Luxury Rental Retirement Living
6945 Carlisle Court, Naples, FL 34109
239-221-0017 . www.TheCarlisleNaples.com