1. Proteins provide the essential Amino acids and the amount of Protein in the diet is an important measure of the adequacy and quality of the diet. The recommended allowance is one gm. per kg. Body weight.
In the elderly, upto 12 -14% of the total calories should be from proteins. But, due to decreased appetite and poor digestion, the elderly tend to consume less protein.
2. How much of fat is allowed in the diet of the elderly?
Fat is a concentrated source of energy. It adds palatability to food. The diet should contain 30 - 40 gms. of fat and half of it should be in the form of vegetable oil, rich in essential fatty acids. A diet with high content of saturated fatty acids (Ghee, Butter, Coconut oil, unrefined oils) tends to increase the level of cholesterol in the blood.
3. Are Carbohydrates necessary in an Elder's diet?
The body needs Carbohydrate because it cannot make it for itself from other nutrients. So, it should be not less than 100 gms per day.
4. What are the most important minerals needed for good health?
Calcium is very essential for an average elderly person. As people become older, the bones become dematerialized. This is called Osteoporosis. So Calcium intake should be not less than 400 mg per day.
Iron deficiency leads to Anemia. So the diet of the elderly should contain sufficient amount of iron. Greens are rich in iron, cheaper than other vegetables and available easily most of the time. The recommended daily allowance is 30 mg. per day.
5. What are the Vitamins needed by the human body?
Vitamins are involved in the utilization of major nutrients like protein, carbohydrate and fat in the body. They cannot be made in adequate quantities by the human body. So, they have to be present in the food that we eat. They are: Vitamin A, D, E, K, C (ascorbic acid) and Vit B Complex (Thiamin -B1, Riboflavin, Niacin, Pyridoxine-B6, Biotin, Foliate, Cobalamins- B12)
6. How important is it for the elderly to drink plenty of water? The elderly do not recognize the need to maintain the volume of water excreted. The fluid intake should be at least 1.5 - 2 lts per day in a normal elderly person.
7. How important is Roughage or Dietary fiber in the diet for the elderly? The elderly require sufficient fiber or roughage in their diet to avoid constipation.
8. Try to avoid "fast foods" that contain a lot of fat.
Avoid
Prefer 
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