When one mentions the word “diet” things like Atkins, Jenny Craig, and Weight Watchers usually spring forward in our minds. Thankfully dieting doesn’t always need to be part of the latest trend or popular fad. A diet change can be as simple as drinking more water, or as difficult as removing all carbs from the pantry. (Pasta is so delicious though.) Though as one ages, more concern must be placed on what one consumes.
Dietary needs do in fact change as we age. Spicy foods may no longer agree with you the way the once did. As you become less active and your metabolism slows, your caloric intake should decrease with it. But that doesn’t always mean you should be eating less! The food you eat should be lower in calories, and well balanced.
Below is a modified food pyramid for adults over the age of 70.
As you can see the type of foods don’t change but the portion sizes do. A significant take away from this chart is the addition of water. Many times we don’t drink enough water to keep our bodies properly hydrated. Also essential vitamins and minerals should be added in the form of a daily multi-vitamin.
The best way to ensure good dietary intake is by increasing intake of whole grains, fruits and vegetables, fish, nuts, lean protein sources, and low-fat dairy and decreasing intake of refined grains and highly processed foods.
If proper food intake is a real struggle for you consider home health services. Home health providers such as AVATAR provide meal preparation and feeding services to individuals. Get the in-home support you need from our delightful trained home health aides.
