Food Pyramid Remodeled

BOSTON—As people age, their appetites may decline but their nutritional needs do not. To reflect the changing dietary habits of adults older than 70, researchers at Tufts University USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, located here, modified the food pyramid for seniors—most notably to include supplements. Tufts researchers recommend seniors supplement with calcium and vitamins B12 and D because older adults tend to drink less milk and get less sunlight than younger people. In addition, many older people do not properly absorb vitamin B12.

Also new to the pyramid is water at its base. Seniors are advised to drink eight or more eight-ounce glasses of water daily to avoid dehydration and constipation, which are common because thirst sensation decreases with age.

The pyramid still promotes a diverse diet rich in grains, vegetables and fruits but low in saturated fat, fatty acids and cholesterol. The modified pyramid is narrower overall to reflect seniors' decreased energy needs, while emphasizing nutrient-dense foods and fiber in fewer servings.

"We recommend these modifications to the food pyramid for those over the age of 70 because it seems appropriate to educate older people about how to optimize their nutrient intake to deal with decreased energy needs," says Robert Russell, M.D., associate director of the Center.