What could balanced diet ideas for elders look like?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a cook with meals on wheels and I would like to get some well-balanced meal ideas for the elderly I cook for. I have people with diabetes, EBS, diverticulitis, and high blood pressure. Please suggest.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Good to know the profession you have chosen. Ideally, you can keep a dietician for more help and meal planning, as she will plan the diet according to requirements and budget and considering company development. These tips may be helpful.

1. Choose good carbs, not no carbs. Whole grains are your best bet.

2. Pay attention to the protein package. Fish, poultry, nuts, and beans are the best choices.

3. Choose foods with healthy fats, limit foods high in saturated fat, and avoid foods with trans fat. Plant oils, nuts, and fish are the healthiest sources.

4. Choose a fiber-filled diet, rich in whole grains, vegetables, and fruits.

5. Include more vegetables and fruits. Go for color and variety dark green, yellow, orange, and red.

6. Calcium is important. But milk is not the only, or even best, source includes almonds, dates, nuts and seeds.

7. Water is best to quench your thirst. Skip the sugary drinks, and go easy on the milk and juice.

8. Eating less salt is good for everyone’s health. Choose more fresh foods and fewer processed foods.

9. Moderate drinking can be healthy, but not for everyone. You must weigh the benefits and risks.

10. A daily multivitamin is a great nutrition insurance policy. Some extra vitamin D may add an extra health boost.

I hope this helps.