What are the main dietary guidelines for older people?
Older people should eat a wide variety of food, from a variety of food groups, following the Food Pyramid, in common with the recommended guidelines for adults in general. Starchy food such as bread, potatoes, cereal, rice and pasta are good sources of sustainable energy and fibre and should be eaten throughout the day. Excessive consumption of sugar-rich foods should be avoided, however, as these provide energy ‘highs’ but no lasting energy. Protein is also required for the growth and repair of body tissues, and is especially important in times of ill-health, when energy requirements rise. Four or more fruit and vegetable portions are recommended for the older healthy person each day to achieve a good vitamin and fibre intake. Meat, fish, poultry and dairy products such as cheese, milk and yoghurts should form part of a regular diet. For healthy individuals, the consumption of a moderate intake of a mixture of fats is important but fat intake should be individually modified for those
