Health Tip: What Seniors Eat
ByABC News
January 15, 2009, 9:51 AM
Jan. 16 -- (HealthDay News) -- Nutrition is an important part of a healthy lifestyle at any age, a requirement that doesn't change as you get older.
Here are some dietary guidelines for older people, courtesy of the Cleveland Clinic:
- Seniors should get 1- to 1.2-grams of protein each day per kilogram of their weight. For instance, a 150-pound person (70 kg) should get 70 to 100 grams of protein daily. Those with chronic kidney disease should ask their doctor about how much protein is safe.
- Seniors need 1,000 milligrams of calcium each day, and 1,000 units of vitamin D daily.
- Seniors should take special care to eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
- Seniors should take a multivitamin if their diet isn't balanced, they've been sick, or are losing weight. Vitamins don't include protein, however.