NUTRITIONAL GUIDELINES FOR THE ELDERLY IN SUMMER TIME

The experts stated that the elderly needed to pay close attention to their dietary habits especially in hot weathers and they needed to increase water consumption and stay away from salt by all means.  Dr. Funda İfakat Tengiz, Lecturer at Izmir University of Economics (IUE) Vocational School of Health Services, stated that there were approximately 4 million elderly living in Turkey and a significant portion of this population were subject to diseases caused by insufficient and imbalanced dietary habits.

Tengiz said that the subject raised more concerns especially with the arrival of summer. "Insensible eating poses an important risk in obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, stroke, skeletal and muscular system diseases mostly found in the elderly group. Hot weather increases the body’s need for water. Fluid consumption needs to be increased during these months. They need to consume at least 8-10 glasses of water in addition to fruit juices, ayran (yoghurt drink), herbal teas, etc."

‘Old People Need to Stay Away from Salt’

Tengiz also pointed out that salt consumption needed to be limited, and excessive salt may lead to problems as high blood pressure, osteoporosis, etc. She said that they should stay away from putting more salt at the table and to avoid foods with high sodium content as pickles, brine, tomato/pepper pastes, and canned goods. Tengiz stated the following:

"Sufficient and balanced diet can be achieved by consuming foods from the four groups of foods in sufficient amounts. These are; milk, cheese and yoghurt from dairy group; meat, chicken, fish, and eggs from proteins; vegetables and fruits, and bread, and legumes from grains. Food from each of these categories must be consumed in every meal. There should be 3 main meals and 3 snacks. This would prevent overeating and ease digestion. Consuming legumes, grains, vegetables and fruits rich in fibre would help with bowel movements, prevent constipation. It is extremely important to include vegetables and fruits in daily diet."

‘Cooking Method is Also Important’

Tengiz recommended low-fat or fat free dairy products for bone health and said that consumption of saturated fats such as margarine, butter, tail fat would increase the cholesterol levels. Tengiz also warned about limited consumption of sugars and pastries. She said, "They need to avoid consuming fast food such as hamburgers, French fries, and pizzas. These, rich in fats and salt, may cause health risks. Close attention should also be paid in purchasing and cooking these food items. Foods which are expired, not fresh, or with bad packaging should be avoided. Food should be boiled or grilled instead of frying or roasting. They should be prepared and/or kept under hygienic conditions, which would preserve the nutrition and provide a balanced diet.”