Observations and Tips in relation to Nutrition during the later years.

Observation 1:

As age increases flexibility of joints decreases.

If joint pain is experienced, a daily supplement of fish oil is recommended.

This may be readily purchased in the form of capsules to avoid unpleasant, fishy flavours (although there is inevitably some aftertaste.)

Fish oil capsules should be taken once or twice a day with food and may also be found beneficial for the memory.

Observation 2:

The importance of a good breakfast cannot be stressed enough. It is the first meal of the day and should not be overlooked.

If working a shift pattern that requires you to start at an unearthly hour in the morning, it is recommended that a sugar-free, slow-release breakfast, such as muesli, is carried to work in a suitable container. This may then be consumed at the appropriate break during the shift. Both complex carbohydrates, such as oats and other grains, and proteins and ‘brown’ fats, such as those contained in nuts, are ideal foods for this purpose. Dried fruit in addition will allow a more instant energy release.

Tip 1:

Place sugar-free, slow-release muesli in a tub such as an empty ice-cream container, to take as mid-shift sustenance.

Tip 2:

Remember to take a fish oil capsule with you when you set off to work.

Place it in a safe place and somewhere where you will come across it easily when preparing to eat your breakfast. Remember fish oil capsules must be taken with food. (See Observation 1 above.)

For example...

Tip 3:

Place fish oil capsule in ice cream container also, so that it is readily available when the muesli is to be consumed.

Tip 4:

On cold mornings, at mid-shift break when ready to consume breakfast, place ice cream tub containing sugar-free, slow-release muesli and milk of your choice (cow, soya or nut) in the microwave (available in the staff kitchen) on low power for one minute to slightly warm contents.

Observation 3:

The flavour of sugar-free, slow-release muesli with milk of your choice (cow, soya or nut) is not improved by the addition of fish oil.

Tip 5:

Remember to REMOVE fish oil capsule from ice-cream container BEFORE placing in microwave.