In general, older adults with diabetes need to follow the same dietary principles as other adults with the disease. But factors unique to older adults, such as decreased senses of taste and smell and decreased appetite, may affect their eating habits.

Important dietary nutrients for older adults

Meals for older adults should provide adequate protein, fiber, iron, zinc, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and D as well as adequate calories and carbohydrate.

• Protein, zinc, and vitamins A and C aid in proper immune function and wound healing.
• Zinc is also important for improving the sense of taste and smell.
• Calcium and vitamin D are important for bone maintenance.
• Iron helps prevent fatigue.
• Adequate fiber and fluids are needed for proper bowel function.

Good sources of nutrients

• Beans are good, inexpensive sources of protein, fiber, and iron.
• Meats provide protein, iron, and zinc.
• Fruits and vegetables, especially fresh or frozen ones, provide vitamins A and C and are also good sources of fiber.
• Whole-grain breads and cereals (such as bran, shredded wheat, and oatmeal), beans, and whole fruits and vegetables are all good sources of fiber.

Other ways to get nutrients

• If your intake of protein and calories is inadequate, drink supplemental-nutrition beverages as snacks. Don't be so strict with your meal plan, because diabetes medicine dosages can be adjusted to account for supplemental beverages and other foods that add carbohydrate to your meal plan.
• If your intake of vitamins and minerals is inadequate, take a multivitamin and mineral supplement designed specifically for older adults. Ask your doctor about whether you need a supplement.
• Some lactose-intolerant people may eat small amounts of cheese and yogurt. Small amounts of milk spread throughout the day or taking a pill form of lactase (the enzyme that is needed to digest lactose) may be helpful.
• If you don't get enough calcium, take a calcium supplement that has calcium citrate or calcium carbonate.

Your doctor may want to measure the amount of calcium in a 24-hour urine sample to see whether you are getting an adequate amount in your diet.

What about fluids?

You need to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and constipation. If you have difficulty remembering to drink fluids, place six to eight pennies by your faucet or refrigerator. Each time you drink an 8 fl oz (0.2 L) glass (1 cup) of fluid, place a penny in a container. When all the pennies are in the container, you will have taken sufficient fluid for that day.

Remember that fluids with carbohydrate (such as juice, milk, or sugar-containing beverages) must be counted as part of your meal plan. Also, keep in mind that certain conditions, such as heart failure or kidney failure, can affect the amount of fluid you should drink each day. Talk with your doctor about your recommended daily fluid intake.