Learn the Latest Guidelines for Optimal Nutrition for Older Adults

It’s certainly no secret that a wholesome diet is crucial for a healthy body. What many people don’t recognize, however, is that dietary recommendations for adults are altered as we age. Nutritional experts at Tufts University have developed the MyPlate system, which is a more advanced adaptation of the previous food pyramid, supplying up-to-date guidelines on good nutrition for older adults in particular.

The MyPlate for Older Adults model includes important information on foods that are high in vitamins and minerals and low in salt, sugar, and fat; however, it also gives direction on subjects such as suggested physical activities and fluid intake, issues that are of special concern for older adults.

Due to the fact that activity levels are in many instances lessened, older adults tend to need fewer calories as they grow older, but they also still require equal or greater levels of nutrients and regular activity for optimum health. MyPlate for Older Adults endorses:

• Brightly-colored vegetables, like peppers and carrots
• Deep-colored fruits, such as melons and berries
• Whole, fortified, enriched grains and cereals, like brown rice
• Low- and non-fat dairy products, including yogurt and low lactose milk
• Liquid vegetable oils and soft spreads, which contain lower amounts of saturated and trans fats
• Spices as opposed to salt
• Liquids such as water and fat-free milk
• Physical activity, including walking, resistance training, and light housework

Also, other recommendations include taking advantage of choices that are more simplified to prepare and minimize waste, such as bags of frozen pre-cut vegetables and single-portion cups of fruit.

At Harmony Home Health and Hospice, the leaders in elderly care in Salt Lake City, UT and surrounding areas, we recognize it can be a challenge to help older loved ones follow a nutritious diet. Our dedicated home health care team can provide a wide range of skilled care services to optimize senior health. Contact us online or call us at 1-877-I-NEED-CARE (1-877-463-3322) to learn more about our professional home health care services and to arrange for a free in-home assessment. To find out if services are available in your area, please visit our Service Area page.