Requirements for Alzheimer’s Patient

September 13, 2007

Fiber

The many different types of fiber are divided into soluble and insoluble fibers. Both types of fiber are necessary for good health. Dietary fiber has been related to many health conditions. Fiber may be beneficial in cases of constipation, diarrhea, diverticulitis, cardiovascular disease, colon cancer, and diabetes. However, one should be cautious in assuming that dietary fiber is the only factor involved in these conditions.

The best way to increase fiber in the diet is from food sources. These sources include fruits, vegetables, whole grain breads and cereals, dried peas and beans, nuts, and seeds. Cooking, processing, and removing peels can reduce the fiber in foods. There is no Recommended Dietary Allowance for fiber. However, the American Cancer Institute recommends 20 to 30 grams of dietary fiber each day. It is important to check with your physician about fiber in your diet. Fiber intake may have to be modified in older adults who have problems with chewing, swallowing, or other medical conditions.

There are some tips to consider when increasing fiber in your diet. Increase fiber in your diet slowly. Increasing fiber too rapidly may cause unpleasant side effects such as bloating and gas. Since fiber absorbs water, it is important to drink plenty of fluids when increasing dietary fiber. Too much dietary fiber can decrease mineral absorption. It is possible to get too much fiber with concentrated fiber supplements. Adequate dietary fiber can be obtained from foods without using fiber supplements.

Fat

Fat is a nutrient that gives us energy. Fats are the most concentrated source of food energy, providing nine calories per gram. Fat helps form cell membranes and carries the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. Fat also provides the essential fatty acids that the body cannot make. Although fat is important in our diet, many adults eat more fat than they should. High-fat diets are considered a risk factor for heart disease, cancer, and obesity. By increasing the risk of obesity, high-fat diets may indirectly increase your risk of adult onset diabetes and high blood pressure.

The American Heart Association recommends that 30 percent or less of your calories come from fat. This is about 65 grams for a 2,000-calorie diet. When trying to lower fat in your diet don’t omit meats and dairy products. These foods contribute to a well-balanced diet. Choose lean meats and low-fat dairy products, use low-fat preparation methods, and watch your portion size to reduce the fat content of these foods. Limit your use of added or hidden sources of fat that don’t contribute nutrients to a well-balanced diet. Some examples are margarine, oils, salad dressings, chips, snack foods, and high-fat bakery items.

Water

Water is more critical to life than food. Lack of water will result in death sooner than will lack of food. The sensation of thirst tends to decline with age. As a result, despite the availability of fluids, many older adults become dehydrated. Adults need six to eight cups of water each day. Water can be taken in many forms such as water, fruit juice, milk, soups, coffee, tea, or soft drinks. Because caffeine acts as a diuretic and can cause fluid loss, decaffeinated beverages are recommended instead of caffeine beverages for fluid replacement.

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