The best snack to grow old in health, according to a nutritionist

Nwhat concerns food everything counts, including snacks that are consuming throughout the day. The key is to choose options rich in protein, fiber and healthy fats, besides micronutrients and antioxidants. Together, these nutrients can reduce the risk of chronic diseases by promoting long-term well-being. 

The best snack for healthy aging

Although there are many snacks that promote healthy aging, there is one that stands out: Greek yogurt with red fruits and seeds, as recommended by Carlyne Remedios to Real Simple. Then notice the benefits of this choice.

Muscle mass

“ As we get older, we lose muscle mass naturally, a condition known as sarcopenia”, explains Remedios. “This process begins around 30 years and accelerates with age, making the intake of proteins more and more important,” he adds. 

According to the expert, Greek yogurt provides approximately 15 grams of complete protein per serving. In turn, hemp seeds contribute more than 3.5 grams of complete protein per tablespoon. 

Together, Greek yogurt and hemp seeds help maintain muscle strength, mobility, balance, metabolic health and independence as we age

Bone health

“ Adequate calcium intake becomes increasingly important with age, especially for women after menopause ", says Remedios. 

Calcium helps maintain bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. “Hemp seeds are also an excellent source of magnesium, another essential mineral that contributes to bone health and plays an important role in muscle and nervous function.”. 

Intestinal health

“ Many Greek yogurts contain active living cultures that help maintain a healthy intestinal microbiome,” says the nutritionist. 

This allows the microbial population in the intestine to be diverse, which is linked to better digestion, stronger immune function and reduced inflammation. 

A healthy intestine is also associated with better brain function through the bowel-brain axis, another benefit that contributes to healthy aging.

Antioxidant properties

“Mirtils, strawberries and raspberries are rich in polyphenols and anthocyanins, compounds that help protect cells from oxidative stress,” says the expert. This is important since oxidative damage contributes to aging and increases the risk of chronic diseases. 

In addition, increased intake of red fruits is associated with better cognitive function and healthier aging.

Heart health

This snack can also help reduce the risk of heart disease. The most popular snacks are risks in saturated fat and sodium, which are associated with increased cholesterol and blood pressure. Greek yogurt with red fruits and seeds can reduce both conditions.