As people age, nurturing healthy nutritional habits often requires a multifaceted intervention approach to address the wide range of factors contributing to poor nutrient intake which include physiological, psychological, social, and economic changes.

The number of senior citizens is growing. They are more susceptible than younger people to many health risks from a nutrient-poor diet. A significant number of these elderly persons, quite often, do not get the amount and types of food necessary to meet their essential energy and nutrient needs. They  may not only be under-nourished for lack of personal resources but also be taking unhealthy diet with high fat, animal products, refined food content and  low fiber content, contributing to increasing prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Due care is essential in this respect for all and more particularly for the seniors.

Healthy Diet

What you eat is to you what fuel and lubricants are to a car or an aero plane. Its composition, quality and quantity, all matter. Healthy eating is important at all ages. If you eat right, you are likely to feel healthier, stay active longer and protect yourself against illness.

Here is a guide for healthy eating:

• Milk and other dairy foods: Choose three servings of milk or milk products per day. These foods contain calcium which keeps bones strong.
• Meat, poultry, fish, cheese, eggs, beans, lentils, pulses and nuts: These foods are good sources of protein. Eat a portion of any of these foods at two of your meals each day.
• Fruit: Try to eat at least one piece of fresh fruit every day.
• Vegetables: These are the main source of fiber and give your food variety and must be on your table regularly along with other foods.
• Breads, cereals: Try to have a serving of bread, cereals, rice or chapatti with each meal. These foods, together with liquids, can help prevent constipation. They will also provide you with energy, vitamins and minerals.
• Butter and cooking fats: Butter and cooking fats provide us with energy and can make food taste better, but use them sparingly if you are watching your weight as they are high in calories. Use a small amount of vegetable oil such as sunflower.
• Biscuits and sweets: These foods are enjoyable, but they lead to weight gain.
• Drinks: At least six to eight tumblers of tea, coffee, fruit juice, milk and water should be taken daily.
• If you are losing weight without trying, you must see your doctor immediately.
• Food may not taste as appetizing as you grow older. Never mind. It is natural.
• Eating in company can increase your enjoyment of food but can also make you eat more than needed.