Proper Nutrition in the Elderly

As in childhood, nutrition in old age requires a special situation. By the age of 30, the growth process is complete and your metabolism begins to slow down. People over the age of 65 are generally considered to be the elderly group.

With aging, serious changes occur in our body. Hair turns white, our skin becomes wrinkled, we have hormonal changes (like menopause), mental activities decrease, bone mineral content decreases (calcium bioavailability during long intake of cortisone, isoniazid, tetracycline, furosemide and aluminum-containing drugs). Along with these, our basal metabolism slows down. Likewise, the reduction, circulation and excretion system slows down. Oxygen utilization capacity decreases and glucose tolerance decreases. In addition, when some chronic diseases (DM, HT, etc.) and old age are added, there are some situations that need attention.

The importance of nutrition increases in the old age, when many changes occur in the human body, and the necessity of a balanced diet for a healthy and productive old age comes to the fore.

Therefore, in old age;

• Excessive food intake or starvation should be avoided.

• Pastries and sweets should be avoided as much as possible.

• Habits such as alcohol and smoking should be stopped.

• Habits such as excessive salt and unnecessary drug use should be abandoned.

• We need to measure our coffee and tea intake.

• The intake of foods high in fiber should be increased.

• Folic acid, B vitamins, vitamins E and C should be taken.

• In these periods when oxidation stress increases, the intake of antioxidants is of great importance.

• Herbal teas, fresh fruit juices can be taken. Light desserts such as pudding and rice pudding can be taken.

• Due to the decrease in basal metabolic rate and muscle movements in old age, the energy need decreases. Therefore, energy intake should be regulated to keep body weight in balance.

• Although the protein requirement is the same as in the adult period, it is recommended to consume essential amino acids and high quality foods. The amount of fat in the diet should also be reduced to a minimum.

• The habit of eating less at frequent meals should be developed.

• In the nutrition of the elderly; Diets should be regulated by taking into account income status, diseases, negative habits and socio-economic status.