It's All About Fiber

Choosing foods that are nutrient dense is essential at this stage of your life. "Since your metabolism is slowing down, you really want to choose foods that will give you the most bang for your buck and avoid the ones that contain empty calories," says registered dietitian Lynn Grieger RD, CDE. Here, Grieger and Janice Newell Bissex, MS, RD, offer their picks for the best foods that you can eat to keep you feeling vibrant and healthy in your 60s.

A great source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseed has been shown in studies to lower cholesterol levels. Grieger recommends buying ground flaxseeds in order to ensure you are getting the benefits of their oils. Sprinkle over cold and hot cereals or blend into a smoothie.

Recommended Serving Size: 1 tablespoon, ground, 40 calories

These nuts contain vitamin E, zinc, and magnesium -- essential for bone density. "People really don't get as much magnesium as they should, so eating almonds is an easy way to get your daily requirement," says Grieger.

Recommended Serving Size: 23 almonds, 160 calories

Did you know that a woman's risk of heart disease rises to the same level as a man's after she has experienced menopause? That's why, Grieger says, "It's really important to watch your cholesterol levels at this age." The fiber in plain oatmeal can help lower your level of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, also known as the "bad" cholesterol.

Recommended Serving Size: 1 cup cooked, 100 calories