Page 40 - Seniors Today - Oct 2019
P. 40
Food
How to eat wisely
this Diwali
With festival goodies tempting you at every step, some tips on enjoying them with
care from dietitian Indrayani Pawar
Diwali is just a couple of days away. The proteins, essential fats and good amount of fiber.
countdown has begun, and we cannot contain In India, seniors tend to abide strictly by their
our excitement. While we are all loving the religious beliefs, and this is also an important
festive vibe and the feasting that is to follow in aspect which influences their dietary habits and
these couple of days, one cannot also deny the health. For example, during festive seasons, they
impact that it can have on our health soon after. fast or stick to only certain groups of foods. This
Wise choices, portion control and moderation could make them deficient in certain nutrients
can help ensure that you eat healthy this festive and also certain vitamins and minerals, which
season. has an adverse effect on health. For instance,
Here is some yummy advice that will make during fasting, they include a lot of “fasting
your life a little bit easier if you’re on a diet, snacks” made with sabudana, potatoes, peanuts,
without making you miss out on any festivities. etc. which could affect their blood sugar levels
The basics of geriatric nutrition need to be in a wrong manner, or sometimes they stick
followed, as with age one’s digestive system to having only one meal, which could lead to
slows down, lifestyle becomes sedentary, further weakness.
and there are also issues with regards to
chewing. So basically a lot of physiologic and Useful hints
psychological parameters influences the diet During festive seasons, the following are some
in seniors. The basic geriatric diet (unless there general tips that seniors need to follow to avoid
is no underlying comorbidity), should be a any health issues:
well-balanced diet. It should be well-balanced •Maintain meal timings.
with the inclusion of complex carbohydrates, •Include whole fruits (thin slice or grated if
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