Back to basics: Five power foods for boomers

(NC)—Baby boomers face a unique set of health issues and challenges. While many turn to vitamins and supplements to help protect their health, research suggests eating a variety of 'real foods' may be beneficial. “I suggest that boomers return to their 'real food' roots,” says Helene Charlebois, RD, Ottawa-based Registered Dietitian/nutritionist. “The focus for boomers is vitality of life and longevity. I suggest eating a variety of foods from each of the food groups. Eating foods from “as close to the farm as possible” provides multiple disease fighting nutrients. This can fall short if dependent on vitamins in the form of pills. Choose a citrus fruit or 100 per cent juice. A glass of Tropicana Essentials Orange Juice with added Calcium provides a daily dose of Vitamin C, calcium, folate, potassium and powerful antioxidants.”

Charlebois recommends five power foods for good health:

100% orange juice and citrus fruits

A glass of 100 per cent orange juice packs a punch with Vitamin C, fibre, B vitamins, calcium, folate and other nutrients. It also contains antioxidants, which boost the immune system to help prevent disease and protect cells.

Oats

Oat-based cereals like Quaker Oatmeal can contribute to healthy cholesterol levels, and help with weight control. Soluble fibres found in oats act like tiny sponges during digestion to help soak up cholesterol.

Milk

Milk contains calcium, and vitamin D, which are both essential for bone health. Vitamin D has recently been hailed as a wonder nutrient for its potential role in the prevention of certain cancers; autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis; type 1 diabetes; and infectious diseases such as the flu.

Salmon

Fatty fish such as salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and is also a source of Vitamin D. Omega-3 fatty acids help protect against heart disease, act as an anti-inflammatory and can have a significant effect on the muscle function of older men and women.

Almonds

Nuts are a source of disease fighting antioxidants and Vitamin E. Almonds are also known to have a beneficial effect on heart disease and may even help in weight management due to their high satiety effect. - News Canada