Diet for a 56 Year Old

As you age, your body changes along with your dietary and nutritional needs. The changes experienced are greatly influenced by hereditary factors and illnesses. Changing your diet to include necessary nutrients may reduce the risk of developing certain health conditions such as osteoporosis. According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation, osteoporosis affects approximately 75 million people in Japan, Europe and the U.S.

Calcium

Most people reach their peak bone mass between the ages of 18 and 25 years of age. According to New York State Department of Health, if your calcium intake is too low, your body will begin to withdraw calcium stored in your bones, which may lead to osteoporosis 1. In addition, calcium aids in the clotting of blood. The recommended daily calcium intake for males and females over the age of 50 is 1,200 mg. Cheese, yogurt, milk and calcium-fortified cereals are good sources of calcium.

Protein

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Protein is essential for the building and maintaining of muscles regardless of your age. However, when you reach your 50s, muscle deterioration begins to occur. According to Medical News Today, diets containing sufficient amounts of protein-rich foods such as:

• nuts
  
• dairy
  
• chicken
  
• pork
  
• beef may slow the deterioration of muscles

The daily recommended intake of protein for 56-year-old males is 56 g and 46 g for females of the same age.

Fiber

Chronic constipation is common among older adults. Chronic constipation is the result of several factors such as reduced liquid and fiber intake, decreased activity and medications. Diets rich in dietary fiber may prevent or reduce the frequency of constipation. Aside from alleviating constipation, high fiber diets have many benefits such as lowering blood cholesterol levels, maintaining bowel health, controlling blood sugar levels and may aid in weight loss 6. MayoClinic.com states that the recommended daily fiber intake for males over the age of 51 is 30 g and 21 g for females over 51. Sources of high-fiber foods include vegetables, nuts, whole-grain products and fruits.

Calorie Intake

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According to the National Institute of Aging, your activity level determines the amount of food you should be eating 5. For instance, women over the age of 50 that live an active lifestyle need to consume between 2,000 and 2,200 calories. Men over 50 who are active need between 2,400 and 2,800 calories. Calories are necessary for energy production and when your body consumes more calories than it uses, it may lead to weight gain.

Warnings

Discovery Health states that too much fiber may lead to gas, bloating, abdominal cramps and diarrhea 6. In addition, excessive fiber intake may interfere with mineral absorption. Always check with your doctor prior to making any dietary changes.