The Swedish National Food Agency presents new dietary guidelines for people over 65 years of age and the basis is the same as for the rest of the adult population, but with advice to eat a little extra protein. For everyone over 75 years of age, vitamin D supplementation is recommended.
In a press release, the Swedish National Food Agency says new evidence shows that good eating habits reduce the risk of dementia, among other things.
“Everyone over 65 has a lot to gain from eating more healthily,” says Susanna Kugelberg, public health nutritionist at the Swedish National Food Agency.
For older people with reduced appetite, it is important to get enough energy and protein to maintain function and quality of life.
For people with a normal appetite, the same dietary advice applies as for other adults, with a couple of important additions regarding protein and vitamin D. In short, this means:
Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Choose a variety of fish, poultry, red meat, eggs and legumes.
Limit your intake of sweets and alcohol.
Prioritize a little extra protein – the need increases with age.
Vitamin D supplementation is recommended for everyone over the age of 75.
Source: Swedish National Food Agency
