Chapter 17 Planning Healthy Meals 425 Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Healthy Meals Meal planning is an opportunity to ensure that nutritional and health needs are met. No single food can provide all the needed nutrients therefore, serving a variety of nutrient-dense foods is optimal. Planning meals for individuals with special nutritional or health needs may require additional consideration. Many resources are available to help with plan- ning meals that meet nutritional needs. Address Special Needs Everyone requires the same nutrients however, the amounts of nutrients each person needs may vary. For instance, children need smaller amounts of nutrients, but they have greater proportional needs than adults. The age, sex, body size, and activity level of an individual affects his or her nutrient needs. Separate meals are not necessary to meet individual needs. All household members can usually enjoy the same meal, but in different portion sizes. Older adults who are living on their own may experience problems with nutri- tion and meal planning. This group is more likely to be at nutritional risk due to health issues. Social isolation, poor mobility, or lack of income can contribute to problems with meal planning. A few simple tips can be used to improve meal planning for older adults (Figure 17.10). Factors other than age can affect an individual’s nutritional needs. Sometimes one or more members of a household follow a special diet due to a health condi- tion. Someone with high blood pressure may follow a low-sodium diet. Individuals with food allergies need to avoid certain foods. A vegetarian chooses not to include eggs or meat products in his or her diet. Adapting meals to the special needs of individuals helps them continue to enjoy good nutrition. These requirements must be considered when planning meals. Meal Planning Tips for Older Adults Meal Planning Tips for Older Adults • Grocery shop with a friend and divide quantities that are too big for one person. For example, share a bunch of broccoli, bag of potatoes, or a melon. • Cook extra and freeze to have healthy, easy meals on days when cooking is difficult. • Keep frozen or canned vegetables, beans, and fruits on hand for quick, healthy additions to meals. • Rinse canned vegetables under cold running water to lower their salt content. If fruit is canned in heavy syrup, drain the juice unless added calories are needed. • Perk up bland-tasting foods with herbs, spices, and lemon juice rather than relying solely on salt or sugar. • Set the table with a cheerful, clean cloth and flowers to make mealtime enjoyable. • Eat regularly with someone whose company you enjoy. • Learn about community programs in the area that serve or deliver meals to older adults. Figure 17.10 Older adults have meal planning needs that can be addressed with a few adjustments or modifications. Can you think of other tips to help older adults with meal planning?