As the years progress, the requirements of the body and its functioning are subject to transformation. In conjunction with these changes, several challenges arise concerning the balanced nutrition of older individuals. Which products should be omitted from the diet? What are the basic principles of nourishing elderly people? What warrants particular attention?
Nutritional guidelines for the elderly – fundamental principles
The guidelines for elderly nutrition have been laid out in the Pyramid of Healthy Nutrition and Physical Activity for older adults. Meals should be smaller but more frequent – around 5–6 per 2–3 hours. Regular nutrition prevents debilitation and malnutrition development and allows the avoidance of hunger that may lead to consuming an excessive amount of food, which burdens the digestive tract. The basis of the diet should be vegetables and fruits – sources of vitamins and fiber.
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