This, unfortunately, is something you may already know from experience: Your gastrointestinal functioning slows down as you age, and as a result, it’s important to focus on eating enough fiber to keep your system moving along. “Fiber not only helps your gastrointestinal function run smoothly, but it also decreases gastrointestinal inflammation and cholesterol, while providing a slow release of energy-rich carbohydrates into the bloodstream,” says Dr. Peeke. “Senior women and men should aim for about 25-30 grams of fiber per day,” she says.
Some of the best fiber sources: raspberries, which according to the Mayo Clinic have 8 grams per cup; whole wheat pasta, 6.3 grams per cup; lentils, 15.6 grams per cup; and green peas, 8.8 grams per cup. To find out more fiber rich foods, click here.
