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70 and Beyond: What You Need to Eat by Jean Baker, MS, RD Rebecca J. Stahl, MA

test Concerned about the unique dietary needs of seniors, researchers at Tufts University have compiled a special MyPlate food guide for healthy people aged 70 and older. The Tufts plate highlights physical activity, fluid intake, whole grains, and nutrient-rich foods. Here is a look at what is on the plate.

On the Plate

Staying Active

The MyPlate illustration shows a range of activities, reminding seniors of the importance of daily exercise. The common activities shown on the plate include daily errands and household chores. Physical activity should be part of everyone's day. If you are interested in starting an exercise routine, talk to your doctor. The illustration also shows a knife and fork. This is a reminder to seniors to put down the remote or other electronic device and focus on mealtimes, especially when there is an opportunity for social interaction.

Staying Hydrated

The beverage portion of the plate shows several examples of liquids to emphasize the need to stay hydrated. Drinking enough fluid is important, even if you do not feel thirsty. (Decreased thirst sensation is common with aging.) Being in hot weather and even taking certain medicines can affect your fluid levels.

The Food

The food portions of the plate are especially important. These divisions show the range of healthy food choices for seniors and the proportions they should be eaten in. Whole grains, vegetables, fruits, healthy oils, low and non-fat dairy products, and sources of protein are all important parts of a healthy diet. Sources of fiber are included throughout the plate because many Americans do not get the recommended amounts—20-30 grams per day. Fiber can help to prevent constipation, a common problem as people age, and may reduce the risk of heart disease and some types of cancer. High-fiber foods include whole grain breads and cereals, fruits, vegetables, and beans.

MyPlate for Older Adults shows a variety of forms that fruits and vegetables may come in, such as canned, dried, or frozen. This is to encourage seniors who may be worried about affording or storing a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables. Also, the plate emphasizes using spices to flavor food instead of salt. It is important for older adults to monitor their sodium intake, since blood pressure tends to increase with age.

Foods to Choose

Here are some food suggestions from the Tufts MyPlate for Older Adults:

Grains—Aim for whole grains. Examples include:
- Breads and cereals made with whole grain flour
- Whole wheat pasta
- Brown rice
Fruits and vegetables—Try to choose:
- Bright-colored vegetables (eg, carrots, tomatoes, broccoli, greens)
- Deep-colored fruits (eg, bananas, peaches, berries, oranges, kiwis, papayas)
In addition to fresh choices, remember that canned and frozen veggies, as well as canned, frozen, and dried fruit, are always an option. These products may be less expensive, and you can store them.
Healthy oils—Choose heart-healthy oils, such as olive oil, which contain unsaturated fats that may lower blood cholesterol. Avoid saturated fats, like butter and animal fat, and do not eat trans fat, which can raise your cholesterol levels.
Dairy products—When shopping, select:
- Low-fat milk, yogurt, and cottage cheese
- Lower-fat cheeses
Protein-rich foods—When adding protein to your diet, choose:
- Lean meats, poultry, and fish
- Eggs, beans, and nuts (eg, peanut butter)

The Main Message

The Tufts researchers point out that these dietary recommendations are aimed at healthy, mobile seniors with the resources needed to prepare adequate meals. The 70+ MyPlate is not designed to consider the special dietary needs of those with significant health problems, nor does it address the socioeconomic factors—such as decreased income and mobility—that can make it harder for many seniors to meet nutrient needs. But all seniors, regardless of circumstances, should still hear the plate's main message: people over 70 have specific nutrient needs, and how well you meet those needs can be influential in how well you face the challenges of getting older.

RESOURCES:

American Dietetic Association http://www.eatright.org/
ChooseMyPlate.gov http://www.choosemyplate.gov/

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

Dietitians of Canada http://www.dietitians.ca/
Health Canada http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/

References:

Lichtenstein A, Rasmussen H, Yu W. Epstein S, Russell R. Modified MyPyramid for older adults. J Nutr. 2008;138:5-11.
MyPlate for older adults. Tufts University website. Available at: http://www.nutrition.tufts.edu/research/myplate-older-adults. Updated November 1, 2011. Accessed June 4, 2012.
Wardlaw and Smith. Contemporary Nutrition. 7th ed. Boston, MA: McGraw-Hill; 2009

Last reviewed June 2012 by Brian Randall, MD

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70 and Beyond: What You Need to Eat by Jean Baker, MS, RDRebecca J. Stahl, MA