Avoiding Problem Foods as You Age (
COURTECT;- webMD )
Slideshow: Avoiding Problem Foods as You
Age
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Grapefruit
It may be surprising, but foods can affect how
your medicine works. That’s why it's always best to ask your doctor or
pharmacist if you should avoid any foods. For example, if you take medicine for
high blood pressure, anxiety, or insomnia, grapefruit juice may interact with
your drugs. Don't miss out on the vitamin C and potassium that grapefruit
holds. Instead, enjoy other citrus fruits like oranges and limes. But
check the labels of other juices before you drink them. Some may contain
grapefruit juice.
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Raw Vegetables
If you have sensitive, decayed, or missing
teeth, raw vegetables may be high on your list of foods to avoid. But don't
miss out on the vitamins and fiber. Instead, try cooking vegetables until they
are softer. Or use pureed vegetables -- such as carrots, pumpkins, and beets --
in soups or stews. You can also try canned vegetables. Just look for those with
no added salt.
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Beans
Some people avoid beans because of the gas and
stomach pain they can cause. But if you've banned beans from your diet, you may
want to reconsider. An excellent source of fiber, beans are also high in
protein and iron and low in fat. The trick is to add beans to your diet slowly.
Start by having a small serving a few times a week. Or try using a digestive
enzyme that's sold over the counter to reduce gas.
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Alcohol
Moderate drinking may reduce your risk of
heart attack and some types of strokes. But as you age, alcohol may affect you
differently, even if you're used to a glass of wine with dinner or a beer with
TV. Alcohol disrupts sleep and can raise your blood pressure, too. Alcohol can
also cause hypoglycemia in people with diabetes. It even affects the way
medicines work. Talk to your doctor about your alcohol use.
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Dairy
You may have trouble digesting milk or dairy
products as you age. But you may not have to give up all dairy products and the
calcium and protein they provide. Many people can have small amounts of dairy
with no stomach upset. And some dairy products are better tolerated than
others. Non-fat plain yogurt and low-fat cheeses are especially nutritious choices.
Or try lactose-free dairy products.
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Caffeine
Although caffeine may not be a problem for
everyone, it can make some people feel anxious or jittery. Caffeine can also
increase your heart rate and cause sleeping problems. If you're trying to cut
back, be sure to taper off slowly. Stopping caffeine too quickly may cause
headaches, nausea, or vomiting. Slowly replace caffeinated drinks with water,
herbal tea, or decaf.
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Meats
Some of the healthiest cuts of meat, such as
lean steak, can be the most difficult to chew. While hamburger is much easier
on the teeth, it's often a less nutritious choice. It can contain 20% to 30%
fat. Instead, look for lean ground beef with no more than 10% fat. Or for a
healthier protein source that's easy to chew, try fish.
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High-Salt Foods
If you're 51 or over or in a high-risk group,
the CDC recommends you watch how much sodium you get, If you're over 51, the
recommended limit is 2,300 mg her day. And if you're in a high risk group
make sure you get no more than 1,500 mg of sodium each day. Too much sodium can
raise your blood pressure and put you at higher risk for heart attack and
stroke. The main culprits? Processed foods, such as frozen foods, snack foods,
salad dressings, and lunch meats. Read labels carefully and look for
"sodium free," low-salt, or no-salt alternatives.
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Cruciferous Vegetables
Do you avoid cruciferous vegetables because of
problems with gas? Cruciferous vegetables -- broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower,
and kale, for example -- are high in vitamin C, beta-carotene, fiber, calcium,
iron, and folate. Some studies have shown they may also reduce your cancer
risk. Don't avoid these vegetables. Just add them to meals gradually, in
smaller servings. Drinking plenty of fluids may help too.
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Fruit
Fresh fruits contain an abundance of vitamins,
fiber, and other important nutrients. But it may be hard to eat your
"apple a day" if you have trouble chewing. Instead, try canned fruits
with no added sugar or syrup, or eat softer fruits, such as berries, bananas,
and melons. You can also blend your favorites into a fruit smoothie.
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Raw Sprouts
Clover, alfalfa, radish, and mung bean sprouts
are high in B vitamins and other nutrients. But raw sprouts can also pose a
health threat to seniors and anyone with a weakened immune system. Because they
are grown in warm, humid conditions, sprouts are more likely to harbor bacteria
than other fresh produce. To enjoy sprouts safely, cook them thoroughly before
eating.
This tool does not provide medical
advice
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