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Mar 30, 15

HOW TO PLAN A DIET FOR THE ELDERLY

When it comes to planning a nutritional diet for the elderly, many of us forget that with age the nutritional requirements of the body also change. Therefore, a typical diet plan for a 60 year old will differ a lot from someone in his/her 40’s. Along with age, people tend to develop many health issues such as diabetes, pains or any other degenerative diseases. Here are a few tips that will help you plan a nutrition-rich diet for your aged loved ones.

Cut down on fried foods and sugars

A reduced intake of oily and sugary foods not only keeps the blood sugar levels in control but also helps those individuals who are overweight. It also helps to keep a check on the cholesterol levels, which again is another common issue that elderly people face.

Introduce high-fibre foods

Most aged people suffer from bowel disorders. Therefore, introducing fibre-rich foods in their diet can help them. However, those with an increased risk of infection or poor appetite must not be given high-fibre substances. In such cases, it is best to consult a physician or a nutritionist before making any drastic changes to the diet.

Serve them fresh, wholesome meals   

The safest way to plan a diet for your aged parent or relative is to include foods rich in protein, vitamins and minerals in moderate proportions. Include milk and dairy products, meat, eggs and fish, bread, cereals, and fruit, vegetables and nuts as a way to create a healthy and wholesome meal plan for the elderly.

Keep in mind how they react to each food group

Notice if they suffer from any physical discomfort like gas or bloating or increased joint pains after consuming certain foods and remove them from your grocery list. Some of them might show symptoms of lactose intolerance or gluten intolerance. Remember which foods trigger these conditions and avoid them.

Reduce their sodium intake

Many elders suffer from hypertension or high blood pressure. Therefore, you must take care to prepare food with less sodium. Frozen, processed or restaurant foods are strict no no’s since they have extremely high levels of sodium. Foods with lowest risk of sodium are fresh fruits and vegetables. So make sure they are getting enough helpings of fruits and vegetables daily.

Get them to drink enough fluids throughout the day

The sensation of thirst slowly diminishes with age. Therefore, you’ll notice most aged people face problems with passing urine and having normal bowel movement. To understand whether or not your parent or relative is downing enough glasses of water, check his/her urine.  Light and clear urine suggests that he/she is hydrated, however, dark or cloudy urine means that there’s a lack of hydration.