Older adults about their diet
A notable aspect, of great importance when it comes to nutrition in older people is inadequate food that predominates in this population group.
This is caused by various factors such as: the loss of the teeth, digestive disorders, intestinal transit disturbances such as constipation and gastritis drug undoubtedly limiting proper digestion, as well the influence of other somatic ills – pain – and psychosomatic, which produce anorexia – depression.
Other factors such as loneliness and physical limitations to provide fresh foods that meet their needs.
With limited or no coexistence lose the desire to prepare food by monotonous diet of poor quality, a study done on this showed that the single elderly or deprived of their loved ones, who lived alone, had a caloric intake of 2.168 Kcal. Compared with 2,300 Kcal, of those living within a family atmosphere.
Another factor that specifically limits the power of the elderly, is the poverty in which most of them are. And finally it should be noted another factor that is crucial to strike a proper balance in nutrition, which is the physical and mental activity of the older individual, which usually dominates a large inactivity.
The healthy elderly people (who do not suffer any chronic illness) have energy requirements lower than those of a young adult, in full activity, so their diet must be carefully controlled and moderate.
Some healthy tips for feeding the elderly:
- Eat several times a day, small bites.
- Increase fiber intake of biscuits, pasta, rice, cereals, seeds, fruits, vegetables and legumes.
- Increasing the consumption of dairy and foods rich in calcium, low fat or relating to calories.
- Reduce the consumption of fats and cholesterol, both in hard cheeses or cured meats, sausages, sausages, bakery products and fried foods.
- Reduce intake of salt and sugar in foods and the use of oils and butters.
- Drink plenty of water a day, 1.5 to 3 liters.
- Avoid alcohol and related beverages.
- Cook soft preparations to facilitate chewing and digestion.
- Eating together as often as possible in order to reduce feelings of loneliness or anxiety.