‹ Back to Nutrition Across Life Stages
Lesson 4 of 4
Nutrition for older adults
Direct answer: ICMR-NIN defines older adults as people aged 60 and over. They need fewer calories but more micronutrients. Each day it suggests cereals with at least a third whole grain, pulses, 200–400ml milk or milk products, a fistful of nuts and oilseeds, 400–500g vegetables and fruit, and about two litres of water.
Consult a doctor or dietitian: this lesson is general education. Needs at this life stage are individual, so please take personal advice from a doctor or dietitian.
Why do energy needs fall?
ICMR-NIN notes that people tend to become less active and metabolism slows with age.
How should food be prepared?
Well cooked, soft preparations with less salt and moderate spices, per ICMR-NIN.
What about activity?
ICMR-NIN advises regular activity, with the exercise schedule decided with a physician.
FAQ
Are packaged foods OK?
ICMR-NIN advises minimising ultra-processed and HFSS foods.
Is this personal advice?
No; ask a doctor or dietitian.
Further reading
Sources
- ICMR-NIN Expert Committee, Dietary Guidelines for Indians-2024 (DGI 2024), nin.res.in/dietaryguidelines/pdfjs/locale/DGI_2024.pdf, Guideline 16, PDF pp. 117–118 / printed pp. 100–101
Progress is saved in this browser only. We don't collect it.
Nutrition Across Life Stages: all 4 lessons
General education, not medical advice.
Educational content, not medical advice. Checked against FSSAI and ICMR-NIN sources by Team Snactivate. For personal advice, consult a doctor or dietitian.