Nutrition for the elderly ✍️Taha Haroun Hamed
Elderly people should be respected in order to fulfill the pleasure of God Almighty. Do not say to them “F” and among the divine commandments, and say: “My Lord, have mercy on them while they brought up the young. » It is therefore our duty to respect the elderly and take care of them.
Importance and special needs
Nutrition of elderly people is one of the vital issues that need special attention as it plays a vital role in maintaining their health and quality of life. As we age, the body's nutritional needs change and nutrients become more important for maintaining overall health and preventing disease. The importance of good nutrition for older people, by improving their diet.
The importance of good nutrition for the elderly
Good nutrition helps older people:
Improving public health:
Good nutrition helps boost immunity and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
Increased energy and mobility:
Older people need energy to maintain their daily activity. An adequate diet provides the elements necessary to maintain energy levels.
Improve psychological state:
Nutrition plays an important role in mental health. A balanced diet can help improve mood and reduce depression.
Maintain an ideal weight:
Weight monitoring is an important part of elderly care because being overweight or underweight can lead to health problems.
Special nutritional needs of the elderly
The nutritional needs of older adults change due to the physiological changes that occur with age. The most important of these needs are:
Proteins:
Protein helps build and maintain muscles. It is recommended to consume high-quality protein sources such as lean meat, fish, eggs and dairy products.
Calcium and vitamin D:
Bones need calcium and vitamin D to maintain their strength. They can be obtained from dairy products, nuts and leafy vegetables.
Fiber:
Fiber helps improve digestive health and prevent constipation. It can be consumed from fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Fluids:
Older people are at risk of dehydration and should therefore ensure they drink enough water and fluids.
Especially the municipal ones, like Al-Aradeeb, Al-Tabaladi, Al-Qadim and Al-Karkadi, in addition to gum arabic.
Vitamins and minerals:
Older adults need adequate amounts of vitamins such as B12 and B6, as well as minerals such as zinc and magnesium to support bodily functions.
Practices to improve nutrition
To meet the nutritional needs of older people, certain practices can be followed:
Meal planning:
Meals should be planned in advance to ensure a balanced diet. A nutritionist can be consulted to design a suitable diet.
Food diversity:
It is best to eat a variety of foods to ensure you get all the nutrients.
Avoid processed foods:
Consumption of processed foods containing sugars and saturated fats should be reduced.
Encourage small meals:
It may be better to eat small, frequent meals rather than three large meals, which helps improve digestion.
Medication monitoring:
Some medications can affect appetite or digestion. You should therefore consult a doctor in case of problems.
at the end
The nutrition of older people is an essential factor in improving their quality of life and their general health. By meeting their specific nutritional needs, we can help them live healthier, more active lives. It requires awareness and constant care, but the results will be visible in improved health and well-being. Therefore, we must all be part of this mission to ensure a dignified and healthy life for older people.
