Healthy eating and nutrition for the elderly is greatly impacted by several factors, and one of them is having a change in the body composition. During the later years in life, the body will lose bone and muscle, and gain fat because the hormones are not very active anymore.
There are many factors which hinder an elderly person's health. The information below will help you to lead a healthy life - no matter how old the person may be.
Water
Water in the body decreases with age, so many older folks will become dehydrated very easily. Sometimes they won't feel thirsty, while at times, it's too much of work would not allow them to pour a glass of water. With this in mind, it's recommended that elderly person should drink at least; 1 ounce of water for every 2.2 pounds of weight
Protein
At this stage in life, protein is very important. Protein is needed to support a healthy immune system and prevent the wasting of muscle. Since energy needs are less, older folks should eat high quality of protein such as eggs, lean meats, poultry, and fish.
Carbs and Fiber
Carbohydrates are the main source of energy for the entire body. You can find carbs in bread, cereals, pasta, and other grain products. A diet that's high in fiber and water will help to prevent constipation as well.
Fat
Fat intake for the elderly should be limited, but not to be eliminated. You can limit fat by choosing lean meats, low fat dairy products, and food preparation methods that don't include anything frying.
Iron
For the elderly person, iron deficiency can be seen with those who aren't eating much. Good sources for iron include lean red meats or breakfast cereals taking.
Zinc
Zinc intake is normally with the elderly person, and to make matters worse, it's not absorbed very well either. Meat, poultry, and fish should be a part of your diet to help them (Elderly) meet the requirements for zinc.
Calcium
Calcium is one of the ingredients that most elderly folks simply are not getting enough of intake. Most believe that milk upsets their stomach, and therefore they should avoid it. They should be getting around 1,500mg of calcium daily, and nonfat powdered milk can be used in recipes as a substitute for milk. Other foods such as yogurt, low fat cheese, and broccoli can also help the elder person meet the requirements for calcium..
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12
In order to absorb the benefits of vitamin B12, the intrinsic factor must be produced by the stomach. Most elderly people suffer from a deficiency in vitamin B12 because they have a condition known as atrophic gastritis. This condition causes inflammation of the stomach, bacterial overgrowth, and the intrinsic factor. Without the intrinsic factor, this vitamin can be absorbed.
In conclusion, each one of the above nutrients mentioned is needed to keep an aged body be in good health. Elder person should try to stay active and strive for a well balanced diet daily. Even, if the aged body is not the same as it used to be, but the proper care and the right nutrients taken in a proper way is enough and can help the elderly enjoy a healthy and long life.
