The contribution of meals on wheels to the nutrient intake of the elderly
1993
Bell, R. | Dunn, P. | Whitehead, A. | Xouris, S.
Dietary intake of 36 elderly recipients (17 males and 19 females) of Meals on Wheels was evaluated by one-day dietary records using household measures. The dietary records were analysed by computer with the SODA program using the NUTRAB 89 database. Meals on Wheels foods were identified and their nutrient content analysed separately. The nutrient intake from the total diet met the RDIs for this population with the exception of energy, calcium, zinc and magnesium. The diets contained 32% of energy from fat and provided 20 g dietary fibre and 232 mg cholesterol per day. Meals on Wheels contributed significantly to total nutrient intake, providing 30% of the RDI for energy and 50% or more of the RDI for protein, retinol equivalents, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin equivalents, vitamin C and iron. Meals on Wheels foods provided less than 50% of the RDI for calcium, zinc and magnesium and this was reflected in a lower overall intake of these nutrients. Minor changes in Meals on Wheels menus and appropriate nutrition education for recipients could improve food choices and result in increased intake of fibre, calcium and other minerals.
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