Nutrtion Tips for Elderly

Older people use less energy, but they need to eat food with the same amount of nutrients as other adults. That being said, experts, such Elly Kleinman, CEO of Americare (see his profile on Pinterest), recommend that it is vitally important to choose a variety of healthy foods.

Empty calories from drinks and foods such as alcohol, soft drinks, chips or sweets should be avoided. Instead it is preferable to opt for foods low in fat and cholesterol. 

Healthy eating for the elderly: 5 or more meals a day

We know that many times the feeding process of an elderly person can be difficult. Certainly the appetite is diminishing considerably and they usually eat a third or less than a half of what they ate when they were young.

According to Elly Kleinman Amercare CEO, the importance is in the variety of foods, the way of preparation and the quantities that can be consumed daily. Organizational changes in diets for the elderly are very important so that they do not fall into boredom. Also, it is crucial that there is a greater combination of nutrients in each plate.

The food can be distributed between 5 or more portions a day, combining proteins, fibers, vegetables, cereals and fruits. It is always better to choose small portions more times a day than the traditional three meals in large portions.

Other tips from Elly Kleinman Amercare CEO that can be taken into account are:

· Eat often, but in lower quantity, to achieve better digestion.

· Remember that it is not only important to prepare a healthy, but also a tasty meal. Elly Kleinman from Americare indicates that with the loss of taste and smell at old age, it becomes easy for elderly to lose their taste for eating as well. Being creative in the way you prepare the food is the key.

· Choosing fats correctly is also important. The elderly should avoid fatty desserts and fried foods.

· Staying active daily is part of building a healthy lifestyle in later life. Thus, muscle strength, bones and the heart can also be strengthened, and will be the perfect complement to a healthy diet for the elderly.

In addition, Elly Kleinman Amercare CEO indicates in

his blog on Goodreads, that in any diet and especially within the diet for the elderly, the consumption of water is vital. During old age the percentage of water in the body decreases. For this it is recommended to drink a minimum of two liters of water a day.