Ask the Food Doctor
Q: Food is so expensive! How can I eat well on my budget?
A: Sometimes towns have senior nutrition programs. Call your senior citizens center or health department. Meals on Wheels is another option. To have nutritious meals delivered to your home, call 1-800-677-1116.
Click on Shopping Tips for some cost-cutting ideas at the grocery store.
Q: I've been kind of down lately and I just don't feel like eating. How can I get my appetite back?
A: Sometimes depression makes people eat less—or more—than usual. Talk with your doctor to see if you may be depressed. Solving the problem of depression will most likely solve your appetite problem, too.
Q: Should I take a multi-vitamin?
A: You can take a multi-vitamin/mineral supplement. Read labels when you shop. Look for a supplement that has roughly 100 percent of the US RDAs for most nutrients, including vitamin D, vitamin E, and folic acid. You also may want to take an extra calcium supplement--few multivitamins have enough calcium.
Q: I have problems with my teeth that make chewing painful.
A: Try softer forms of the foods you love. Make a "smoothie" in the blender with fresh fruit, milk, and yogurt. Cook up some homemade applesauce with cinnamon. Try some new recipes for nutritious soups.
Q: I've been losing weight without even trying lately. Should I be doing anything differently?
A: Talk with your doctor about your weight loss. He or she can tell you whether you're getting all of the nutrients that you need.
Q: Does it really matter if I skip breakfast and eat a big dinner?
A: Yes, it does matter. Those who eat breakfast actually live longer! Eating a huge supper and then falling asleep is stressful for your body.
- Next: Food Guide Pyramid
Reviewed by Louise P. Grant, M.S., R.D., LD
