New Dietary Guidelines for Americans: Does One Diet Fit All?

March is Nutrition Month

Philadelphia, PA, February 28, 2005– Go beyond the four basic food groups, the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans are giving us more food for thought; more fruits, more vegetables and more whole grains to be exact. Yet, recognizing that seniors have unique nutritional needs is crucial in preventing illness and encouraging health in the elderly community.

The Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee (DGAC), which is appointed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), do recommend that older adults follow an additional set of guidelines including an increased intake of Vitamins D and B12, less sodium, regular exercise, as well as avoiding certain types of deli meats and other processed meat products.

“Vitamin D, which can be found in milk or some calcium supplements, is very important for seniors, especially older women, because it helps bones absorb calcium which decreases the risk of bone breakage and other effects of osteoporosis,” says Flavia Herzog, MA, RD, registered dietitian at Albert Einstein Medical Center.

“Many people aren’t aware of the importance of B12. Yet, it is a fundamental part of red blood cell development and of a healthy nervous system. Without the proper amount of B12, individuals, especially seniors are at risk for anemia. Fortunately though, B12 is found in common foods such as various dairy products, eggs and meat,” says Herzog.

In addition to more vitamins, the DGAC recommends that certain individuals, including older adults should reduce their sodium intake, limiting it to 1,500 milligrams per day.

“Sodium should be avoided by seniors because it can increase hypertension, which can lead to serious medical problems including heart attack and stroke. Although foods high in sodium should be avoided altogether, there are low-sodium alternatives available,” says Herzog.

The DGAC also suggests that the elderly and others who have weakened immune systems should eat deli meats and hot dogs that were reheated to steaming hot.

“It is necessary for everyone, but especially for seniors, to be safe when eating meat. There are many types of bacteria, which may cause food-born illnesses and when you have a weakened immune system, as many older adults do, it is good practice to kill bacteria that may cause sickness if consumed,” says Herzog.

Aside from healthy eating habits, physical activity is also necessary. Although regular exercise is recommended for the public at large, the DGAC recommends that older adults, in particular, participate in regular activity in order to lessen the effects associated with aging.

“Exercise is wonderful for older adults who are able to do it. Exercise can improve muscle and joint strength as well as help lessen the pain of conditions such as arthritis,” says Herzog.

Even though healthy diet and exercise are excellent ways to stay well, Herzog reminds people to talk to their physician or dietitian about their specific nutritional and exercise needs.

For more information on the newly released Dietary Guidelines for Americans visit www.health.gov/dietaryguidelines/dga2005/report/.

Albert Einstein Healthcare Network, a member of the Jefferson Health System, provides healthcare services through Albert Einstein Medical Center, Germantown Community Health Services, Willow Terrace (a nursing home), Einstein at Elkins Park, MossRehab, Willowcrest (a center for subacute care), Belmont Behavioral Health and a number of outpatient and satellite locations.  Einstein also operates a primary care network, Einstein Neighborhood Healthcare.  To make an appointment with an Einstein physician, visit www.einstein.edu or call 1-800-EINSTEIN.

Publish date: February 28, 2005