For many individuals, the beginning of a new year can be a stressful time as they attempt to set food-related goals for the upcoming months. Many people acknowledge that they want to eat “healthier”, but they fail to create a realistic and attainable goal of what that means for them. As an older adult, it can be more difficult to choose a resolution due to health conditions and diet restrictions. However, this does not mean that you cannot set food-related goals. Here are some resolution ideas for you to try during 2019!

Resolution #1: Define “Healthy”

There are many connotations of the word “healthy”, and it is important to decide what that concept means to you. On one hand, eating healthy might mean following a strict diet to adhere to a doctor’s order or a specific health condition. On the other hand, eating healthy possibly means consuming a wide variety of foods when and where you choose. What is healthy for one is not necessarily the best option for another. Regardless of your situation, it is important to personally define the term “healthy” to have a strong relationship with food. Try writing your own definition!

Resolution #2: Try a New Food

If you cook for yourself, are you constantly preparing the same recipes? If you have your food prepared by your senior care facility, do you usually opt for the alternate hamburger? Why not try something new this year? Eating new foods can be intimidating, but you may find a new favorite dish. Do not be afraid to make suggestions to the kitchen staff and food service director at your facility. You can also ask family and friends for new recipes to try.

Resolution #3: Learn How to Cook

A new year is a great time to pick up a new hobby! For many people, cooking or baking is a great creative outlet. There may even be opportunities at your facility to learn how to cook! Talk to your activity coordinator to see if your facility offers cooking classes. If they don’t, ask if it would be a possibility in the future. You can also learn from family and friends or seek out classes offered in your community.

Resolution #4: Back to the Basics

For many people, a new year means a new diet. There are many different fad diets nowadays, and often they are tiring, restrictive and ineffective. If you find yourself caught in this cycle, it might be time to go back to the basics. A variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products and protein foods is a great place to start. Eating a combination of these food groups in moderation is the way to ensure that you are consuming all the nutrients that your body needs!