Eat Well, Be Well – Fuel for the Future

By Greg Pascucci

March is National Nutrition Month, and this year’s theme is “Fuel for the Future,” which reminds people that “eating with sustainability in mind is a tasty way to nourish ourselves during every phase of life and protect the environment.”

Created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the campaign also encourages us to make informed food choices and develop healthy eating 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 taste. 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.

Here are three tips for incorporating this year’s theme into your diet:

1. Eat & Buy Local
Proper nutrition is vital to preventing diseases such as diabetes and ailments like high blood pressure and arthritis, all of which can negatively affect one’s independence. Florida’s near-perfect weather is ideal for taking advantage of our rich bounty of fruits and vegetables. Local farmer’s markets offer various options for those wanting to add more variety to their diets. 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. Research shows locally grown foods are fresher and begin to lose nutrients within 24 hours of being picked. According to a study by the University of New Hampshire, less steps from farm to plate can reduce the risk of bacterial or viral contamination, plus eating locally sourced ingredients is great for the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

At The Carlisle Naples, Executive Chef Marlon Perez and his talented culinary team are raising the bar on five-star dining at a senior living community. He ensures The Carlisle’s rotating menu features fresh, healthy food choices year-round that are not only delicious but nutritious. In addition, he works closely with vendors who purchase directly from local farms, supporting the local economy while reducing the community’s carbon footprint.

2. Try Plant-Based Options
According to New York Times bestselling author Dan Buettner, centenarians featured in “Blue Zones” – places with high concentrations of super-agers – consume a mostly plant-based diet, limiting quantities of meat and eating four to six vegetable servings daily. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics suggests beans, peas and lentils as plant-based protein options that will work well in a variety of dishes.

At senior living communities such as The Carlisle, an executive chef ensures residents have well-balanced and nutritious options, including fresh salads and an assortment of fruits and vegetables. The Carlisle also offers FreshZest, an initiative that encourages a plant-based, whole-food diet that has been shown to offer numerous health benefits and may even reverse some chronic ailments, particularly in older adults. FreshZest is part of the expansive dining choices available in the community’s restaurant, The Carlisle Room.

3. Start a Garden
A garden is a great way to stay healthy while being kind to the environment. The Mayo Clinic reported that gardeners are more likely to incorporate fruits and vegetables into their diets. Gardening doesn’t have to require much space. Grow bags are perfect for patio gardening and lettuce, tomatoes and herbs can be hydroponically grown on a kitchen counter.

Thanks to The Carlisle’s maintenance-free lifestyle, residents now have more time to pursue interests and hobbies such as gardening. In addition to providing healthy harvests, gardening offers physical and mental benefits. It is an enjoyable aerobic exercise and can boost one’s mood.

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