New Health Experts Q&A Senior Health Elderly Nutrition

What is the key to the diet of the elderly?

Asked by:Aurora

Asked on:Mar 31, 2026 12:36 AM

Answers:1 Views:555
  • Alex Alex

    Mar 31, 2026

     

      exist elderly In nutrition, protein is very important. Because protein catabolism is enhanced in the elderly, their ability to utilize protein is also reduced. The elderly should eat foods rich in high-quality protein to avoid senile protein deficiency.
      
      The daily protein supply for the elderly is 1 g-1 per kilogram of body weight. 5 grams (accounting for 10%-15% of the total energy of food) is appropriate.
      
      The total caloric intake of the elderly decreases, but the protein requirement remains relatively unchanged, so the supply of fat and sugar in the diet should be reduced. High fat diet vs low fat diet healthy All bad.
      
      Generally speaking, the fat intake of the elderly accounts for 20%-25% of the total energy (the total amount is about 1 gram of fat per kilogram of body weight per day). The best ratio of daily intake of animal fat and vegetable fat is 1:2.
      
      The elderly should control their sugar intake, especially pure sugar. Because sugar can be converted into fat in the body, making people gain weight. However, some foods with high sugar content contain more dietary fiber, and dietary fiber has special significance for the elderly, so these foods should not be restricted too much.
      
      In the nutritional supply of the elderly, there must be sufficient vitamins, and their supply should not be lower than that of middle-aged and young people. The elderly are also prone to lack of inorganic salts, especially calcium and iron. Many elderly people suffer from osteoporosis due to calcium deficiency, leading to fractures and bone deformation. It is important to note that older adults must limit their sodium intake.

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