Eat Well, Age Well: Nutrition Made Simple with Dietitian Ian Thomas
Eat Well, Age Well: Simple Nutrition Tips for Over 55s
When it comes to staying healthy as we age, movement gets plenty of attention, but good nutrition is just as powerful.
Eating well doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about fuelling your body so you can move more easily, keep your energy up, and feel great in your day-to-day life.
We talk a lot about exercise, but it’s nutrition that keeps the engine running. That’s why this month, we’re joined by NHS Dietitian Ian Thomas on Thursday at 1.30pm, for a live Healthy Habits Club session all about gut health and how small, simple dietary changes can make a real difference.
Meet Ian Thomas
Ian has been working as a dietitian for over 10 years, both within the NHS and in private practice. He’s passionate about simplifying the over-complicated and ever-changing messages around nutrition and health, always putting his clients front and centre when helping them make changes.
His work covers everything from type 2 diabetes and healthy ageing to sustainable weight management, and he’s a firm believer that food should be enjoyable, not stressful.
Ian joins our Healthy Habits Club on the last Thursday of every month, sharing practical, no-nonsense advice that cuts through confusion and makes nutrition simple to understand and apply.
Why Nutrition Matters in Later Life
As we get older, our bodies change. Our metabolism slows slightly, our muscles need a bit more support, and digestion can become less efficient. That doesn’t mean we need to overhaul everything, just that paying attention to what and when we eat can help keep us feeling our best.
According to the NHS Eatwell Guide and the British Dietetic Association (BDA), here’s what a balanced diet looks like for older adults:
Plenty of fibre: from fruit, vegetables, oats, beans, and wholegrains
Enough protein: to support muscle strength and recovery
Calcium and Vitamin D: to keep bones strong
Stay hydrated: even when you don’t feel thirsty
The goal isn’t to follow strict rules, it’s to give your body what it needs to stay strong, steady, and energised.
Gut Health: More Important Than You Think
Our gut does far more than digest food; it supports our immune system, energy levels, and even mood.
While research into gut health is still evolving, experts agree that fibre, hydration, and regular movement are key to keeping your digestive system running smoothly.
As Ian will explain in his upcoming session, the BDA’s latest guidance highlights that even small, consistent changes can make a difference, such as:
Adding a handful of berries or seeds to breakfast
Including a portion of beans, lentils, or vegetables with lunch or dinner
Drinking a glass of water with every meal
And don’t forget, movement plays a part too. Staying active helps your gut do its job more effectively.
Protein: Your Best Friend for Healthy Ageing
One thing that surprises many people is how important protein becomes later in life. It helps maintain muscle strength, supports bone density, and aids recovery after activity.
Try including a good source of protein with every meal, such as eggs, fish, chicken, beans, lentils, tofu, or dairy (or fortified alternatives if you prefer plant-based options).
Our resistance workouts, from dumbbell classes to banded sessions, are designed to work hand-in-hand with good nutrition to keep your muscles strong and your body capable.
Food, Mood, and Connection
Eating well isn’t just about nutrients; it’s about enjoyment. Sharing a meal, trying a new recipe, or sitting down for breakfast with someone else can all lift your mood and help you feel connected.
Health should feel like living, not restricting. By combining movement, nutrition, and community, we help you stay active, eat well, and feel good in every sense.
Join the Conversation
Join us this Thursday at 1.30pm as Ian Thomas talks all things gut health: what the latest research is showing, what’s still being explored, and the small steps you can take to support your digestion and overall wellbeing.
If you’re a member, don’t miss it. It’s the perfect opportunity to ask questions and get clear, practical advice from a registered dietitian.
If you’re not yet a member, now’s the perfect time to join.
You’ll get unlimited access to 14+ weekly live classes, on-demand workouts, community clubs, and monthly expert sessions, all designed to help you move better, eat better, and age well
👇Join Jim’s Gym today and start feeling your best from home.
FAQs
What’s the best diet for healthy ageing?
A balanced one! Focus on whole foods, a variety of fruit and veg, enough protein, and plenty of fluids.
Do I need supplements?
The NHS recommends Vitamin D between October and April in the UK. Otherwise, a varied diet usually covers most needs.
Can improving my gut health really make a difference?
Absolutely. A healthy gut supports digestion, energy levels, and even mood, and it’s easier to improve than you might think.
What if I find cooking for one difficult?
Try batch-cooking, freezing leftovers, or sharing meals with friends. Eating well doesn’t have to mean cooking every day.
Want more support to eat well, move more, and feel great?
Join Jim’s Gym today for just £12.99/month or £129.90/year (two months free) and be part of our community built for people over 55.
Join the movement today.
Our monthly membership is great for those just starting out or may need to take a break for a big adventure! The yearly option gives you two months FREE membership with a 30 day money back guarantee.