What you eat shapes wallet

RETIREES: DON'T FALL INTO DIETARY PITFALLS

- Jaco Fouché

Most people meticulously plan their finances for retirement; however, one of the most critical investments affecting your health in retirement is often overlooked—nutrition.

Nutrition and diet include eating habits, fluid intake, and the use or abstinence from drugs and alcohol. The food you eat and the supplements you take can significantly impact your longevity, energy levels, and overall well-being.

Your diet: every bite counts. Retirement often brings more flexibility in daily routines, allowing for greater control over meal planning. However, many retirees fall into dietary pitfalls, including overindulging in comfort foods, skipping meals, consuming excessive sugar and processed foods, and neglecting hydration.

These habits can lead to chronic health conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, all of which can diminish the quality of life. There are, however, a few practical measures you can consider:

Prioritise nutrient-dense foods

Focus on consuming a diet rich in essential nutrients. Key components include: