Patients Association - Nutrition and Hydration week 13th-19th March
14 Mar 2017 09:49 AM
Food and water are essential for health. Good nutrition can help the body to maintain or improve strength, stay mobile and keep up independence; however illness and old age can put a strain on the body.
Many people, when living with a medical condition, recovering from an illness or operation, or even as they get older, may find they cannot eat as much as usual and sometimes lose weight.
During illness or recovery the body can be under increased stress and may need more energy, protein, vitamins and minerals, even if someone is less mobile. These nutrients are essential to maintain weight, improve recovery and maintain independence, as well as helping to support the response to medical treatment.
What is good nutrition?
Eating a healthy, balanced diet is vital for maintaining good health for us all. This includes eating foods from all the different food groups, to provide us with the nutrients we need. Sometimes you or the person you care for can struggle to eat the right amounts of certain food groups.
The Eat well guide shows the portions of the different food groups we need to eat each day to have a balanced and healthy diet. Based on the Eat well guide you should try to eat:
Plenty of starchy food
- Bread, breakfast cereals, potatoes and pasta are a good source of energy
- Always choose wholegrain varieties where you can.
Plenty of fruit and vegetables
- Aim for five portions a day to provide you with a good source of vitamins and minerals.
1 portion is equivalent to: 1 apple, 1 medium banana, 1 handful of grapes, 150ml glass of unsweetened orange juice, dessert bowl of salad.
Some protein
- Meat, fish, eggs, beans, pulses.
Some milk and dairy foods
- Including cheese and yogurt; choose low-fat options if trying to reduce fat in your diet
Limit the amount of foods high in fat or sugar
- Crisps, chocolate, sweets.
The amount that you need to eat of the different food groups will vary depending on how active you are and if you are trying to lose or gain weight
For more information on the Eat well guide, click here.
During illness some people may find it difficult to eat enough food, which can result in unexpected weight loss. If the body is not provided with enough food over a period of time it could result in a nutrition gap, also known as ‘undernutrition.’ Healthcare professionals may also refer to this as malnutrition. Unexpected weight loss and poor dietary intake can further decrease energy levels, reduce physical strength and can weaken the immune system. If you have unintentionally lost weight you should always discuss this with a healthcare professional such as your GP.
Hints and tips for improving nutritional intake
If you or someone you care for is struggling to eat enough food, trying to base meals and snacks on the following foods may help, as they are high in energy and protein.
Food which provides protein and energy:
- Meat, oily fish, eggs, nuts, and full fat dairy (such as milk, yoghurt or cheese).
Foods which are a great source of energy:
- Pasta, potatoes, bread, rice, crackers or oatcakes, and snacks (such as biscuits, cakes, chocolate or crisps)
Furthermore, some practical tips to help improve nutritional intake include:
- Eating small, frequent meals and snacks every 2-3 hours.
- Avoid drinking fluids with meals which may reduce how much is eaten.
- Get some fresh air outside or sit by an open window prior to, or during, eating.
- Use smaller portions on small plates as large servings may reduce appetite further.
- Consume nourishing milk based drinks
More information available as follows:
Carers UK and Nutricia Advanced Medical Nutrition
Carers UK is working in partnership with Nutricia Advanced Medical Nutrition to help improve understanding about nutrition and caring. The partnership provides carers with information and resources on nutritional care for both themselves and the person they care for.