Dietary management of geriatric diabetes

The most important dietary precept for elderly patients with diabetes mellitus is the maintenance of desirable body weight. Weight reduction is imperative for the obese. It is now proposed that the diet prescribed contain predominantly carbohydrate (50 to 60% of total calories) and that the carbohydrates be primarily complex and rich in fiber. Protein should be of high quality, but never in excess. A diet low in saturated fats and cholesterol and proportionately higher in polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats seems prudent in view of the accelerated incidence of macrovascular disease in this population. Lipid profiles should be carefully monitored, and carbohydrate intake may need to be limited if hypertriglyceridemia is present. Vitamin and mineral supplements may be desirable. It is important to understand that the dietary guidelines for diabetic patients discussed in this article are not fundamentally different from those for any other person desiring a healthy diet. The nutritional program outlined is a good program for everyone, and the entire family is encouraged to participate in the meal planning and preparation involved.