For the elderly people, the physiological functions of the systems and organs of their body are greatly different from that of the young people. Therefore, we should pay great attention to the nutrients needed by the old people, which are also different from that of young adults.

First, protein
For the elderly, as the catabolism increases while the anabolism decreases, so their protein need is no less than the adults. You can choose foods containing high quality protein, so as to achieve better effect. In general, the proportion of protein should be increased, with about 12% to 14% of the total daily amount.

Second, carbohydrates
It is appropriate for the old people to take in different kinds of carbohydrates, but the proportion of polysaccharide should not be too small. Marmalade and honey can be used as part of sugar for the elderly. Under normal circumstances, the appropriate proportion of carbohydrates in the total calories is about 60%.

Third, lipids
Just as the adults, the old people also need lipids, which can facilitate the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and improve the flavor of vegetables. It is best to mainly use vegetable oil, but it is not necessary to exclude all the animal fat, because excessive unsaturated fatty acids in the diet are not necessarily beneficial to the body.

Fourth, salt
The elderly should take in less salt, with 5 grams per day appropriately. What's more, patients suffering from hypertension and coronary heart disease should take in less than that, with no more than 3 grams.

Fifth, vitamins
The supply of vitamins for the old people is the same with the young adults. According to the survey, it is found that the elderly tend to easily lack of vitamin A and B vitamins. As a result, they should pay special attention to take in more of these vitamins.

Sixth,
Cellulose plays an important on the health of the old people. Because cellulose can promote digestion and the peristalsis of the intestines, prevent constipation, and can help prevent colon cancer and lower blood cholesterol. As a result, the elderly should not exclude the coarse grain foods, and they should particularly pay attention to eat more fresh vegetables and fruits.

In a word, the nutritional need of elderly people has its specific characteristics. The foods they eat should be low in fat and salt, with moderate calories, quality protein, and trace elements, and contain sufficient vitamins, cellulose, and inorganic salt (such as calcium, magnesium, iron and so on).