Food and nutrition

Nutrition plays a major role in your everyday life, as it not only provides your body with the energy and nutrients you need, but also affects your mood and general wellbeing. Mealtimes can be important social events that strengthen your family ties and friendships. You can also enjoy food when eating alone. A well-planned diet helps you cope better with everyday life and promotes your long-term health.

A well-balanced and healthy diet gives your body all the necessary vitamins and nutrients to help you stay energetic and in good health. For example, vegetables and fruit give you vitamins and fibre that support your digestive and immune systems. Protein helps grow and repair muscles, while wholegrains provide long-lasting energy. Nutrition allows you to influence your weight management, blood values and blood pressure! 

Nutrition has a significant impact on oral health. A regular meal schedule and avoiding snacks between meals gives the mouth enough time to recover from the acid attack caused by eating and reduces the risk of cavities. When you are thirsty, you should favour water, and only drink sweet and acidic products at mealtimes. 

When consumed often, acidic products like juices, sodas and energy drinks cause permanent tooth erosion. 

Snacks that are healthy for the teeth include whole grain products, dairy products, nuts and vegetables. By using xylitol, you can reduce the duration of the acid attack and increase saliva production, which also has beneficial effects on oral health.

As a person ages, nutrition becomes even more important. Good nutritional state supports functional capacity, speeds up recovery from illnesses and supports living at home. With age, energy consumption decreases, but the need for nutrients remains the same or even increases. For this reason, the diet must be well-balanced, with sufficient energy and protein, and contain vitamins and minerals.

Special considerations:

• Protein: Adequate intake maintains muscle fitness and prevents brittleness.
• Vitamin D: For those aged 75 or older, 20 μg of supplement is recommended daily year round.
• Good fats: Vegetable oils and fish support heart health.
• Hydration: The feeling of thirst weakens with age, which is why sufficient drinking is important.
• Reduced appetite: Food should be tasty, colourful and easy to eat.
• Illnesses and medication: These can affect nourishment, which is why individual assessment is important.