Adapting a lifestyle, especially if it has something to do with how a person eats can dramatically change a person, physically and otherwise. Vegetarianism seems to be the most favorite adapted lifestyle these days, young and old, it’s just one or the other reason for turning vegetarian however, for seniors, it is a lot more for the health than any other.
As you all may know, we seniors suffer from several limitations on food intake and consumption. Whatever it is that’s being offered to us, we must first be certain what’s in it and how it could affect our health. There is almost always no work-around either, no matter what these “healthy alternatives” companies say – say, artificial sweeteners versus sugar or salt alternative versus real salt. You will still end up missing the real thing.
Now, going vegan is not really a bad idea for seniors, again, considering the many “don’ts” we have to remember when eating. If we look closely to the general order of things, seniors should be limiting consumption of sweets, diuretics such as coffee and tea, fried and greasy foods, and salty – among other things, all the while loading up on fruits, veggies and whole grains. In other words, most of us seniors are encouraged to a life of vegetarianism and I must say, the lifestyle won’t hurt us any, in fact it might even help us solve some of our heath problems.
Still, you need to check with your doctor if this is a good idea for you and ask her/him his thoughts about your decision to go vegetarian. Don’t be ashamed to check, there are many people who do this and doing so will also prepare your doctor for future analysis and treatment with regard to your health.
Taking into consideration how sensitive your digestive system has become, a vegan diet might suit you since you exclude meat in your diet and even its byproducts which often cause trouble to your digestive track. However, it is very important to consult healthcare providers before you start a vegan diet as there are still aspects to it that an aging body won’t probably be able to manage. For example, it is best if you consult a nutritionist to properly plan your vegan meals instead of striking it completely on your own. Aside from that, pay close attention to types of food that have undesirable reaction to your body such as cabbage which is known for their gas-making properties and figs which induce laxative effects. On top of that, a vegan must make sure they are getting all their needed nutrients, even those that are normally found in meats which you are not supposed to take anymore since you have just turned vegan.
