TIPS FOR GOOD NUTRITION DURING OLDAGE

 

Old age is rightly known as the second childhood. Not only does the body metabolism undergo a sea of changes, the taste buds, important organs of the body like heart, kidneys, liver etc. also become sluggish with age. Of the bagful of chronic degenerative diseases, lifestyle disorders and nutritional deficiencies, old people are bound to have one or a bunch of them.

 

As one ages, it becomes difficult to digest, and absorb certain nutrients due to sluggish metabolism and other body functions. Physical disabilities and emotional changes resulting from depression, grief and loneliness form one of the major concerns of older generation as they indirectly affect their nutritional health by causing loss of appetite.

 

Certain key factors to be kept in mind while planning diets for elderly are as following:

 

·        Elderly must have well planned balanced diet.

·        The foods cooked for them must be soft, easy to chew and of semi solid consistency. Prefer stewed fruits and well-cooked vegetables.

·        Attractive and varied meals should be planned.

·        Elderly must consume small frequent meals for easy digestion and better absorption.

·        Nutrient dense snacks should be included in the diet.

·        Emotional foods can be included in the diet from time to time to give them a feeling of satiety.

·        Choose a diet low in saturated fat, cholesterol and hydrogenated fat.

·        Restrict sugar and have salt in moderation.

·        Elderly must consume enough water to prevent dehydration due to reduced thirst and kidney function.

·        Ensure adequate fiber and antioxidant intake to maintain the gastrointestinal health and maintain the overall health respectively.

·        Nutritional supplements may include calcium, folic acid, B-complex vitamins, however they must be taken under medical supervision to prevent hypervitaminosis.

·        Old people must consume their meals with family as it has been found that elderly staying with their families have a better nutritional status compared to their counterparts staying alone or in oldage homes.

 

 

 

 

·        Irregular and unplanned meal pattern and meals.

·        Heavy dinners.

·        Lying down immediately after consuming meals.

·        Spicy food.

·        Frequent feasting or fasting.

·        Raw and comparatively hard fruits and vegetables.

·        Partially cooked vegetables.

·        Eat alone.

 

 

Intelligent eating during oldage may well be the answer to the Greek Prayer-

“ O lord! Letme die young but as late as possible!”