The New Year has many of us searching for ways to lose weight, but for Missouri seniors with chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart failure, excess weight and obesity are especially serious concerns.

According to the U.S. Administration on Aging, 87 percent of older Americans have a chronic disease that can be improved through nutrition. The benefits of healthy eating include weight loss, higher energy levels, increased mental sharpness, a stronger immune system, and better management of chronic health problems.

Missouri area Medicare special needs plan Care Improvement Plus specializes in nutrition counseling for those with chronic conditions, and offers the following helpful tips for area seniors and their loved ones to help meet their nutritional needs in 2012:

• Balance is key. The USDA recommends consuming at least five servings of vegetables per day. A proper diet can help to reduce the risk of heart disease by 80 percent. Get professional help! Some Medicare plans will provide free dietitian counseling to evaluate your diet and discuss the best food choices for your health needs.

• Reduce sodium consumption. Studies have shown a link between sodium, high blood pressure and heart failure. Seniors and individuals with diabetes or heart disease should reduce their sodium intake to no more than 1,500 mg a day, or about ¾ of a teaspoon of salt. Read food labels and look for items that are “low sodium,” “reduced sodium,” or “no salt added.” ¬¬

• Consume more water. Dehydration is one of the most frequent causes of hospitalization among people over the age of 65. Unless advised by your physician to limit your fluid intake, it is important to consume at least six to eight ounces of fluids per day, including water. Supplement your loved one’s fluid intake by providing liquid rich foods at meal time—like soups or fresh fruits and vegetables.

• Fill up on Fiber. The American Diabetes Association recommends that people with or at risk of diabetes eat meals high in fiber. Fiber-favorites that are easy to incorporate into everyday meals include raw fruits, veggies, beans, nuts and whole grains.

• Make mealtime, family time. A recent survey found that 30 percent of seniors skip at least one meal per day. For seniors with diabetes, skipping meals can be dangerous because it can upset blood sugar levels. If you are worried that a loved one is skipping meals, make mealtime a family time and eat together!

Care Improvement Plus provides specialized Medicare coverage for underserved and chronically ill beneficiaries in Missouri, and is a 2011 Corporate Partner of the National Family Caregivers Association. To learn more, call 1-866-727-6646 or visit www.careimprovementplus.com.