title: Modified MyPyramid for Older Adults.
abstract: In 1999 we proposed a Modified Food Guide Pyramid for adults aged 70+ y. It has been extensively used in a variety of settings and formats to highlight the unique dietary challenges of older adults. We now propose a Modified MyPyramid for Older Adults in a format consistent with the MyPyramid graphic. It is not intended to substitute for MyPyramid, which is a multifunctional Internet-based program allowing for the calculation of individualized food-based dietary guidance and providing supplemental information on food choices and preparation. Pedagogic issues related to computer availability, Web access, and Internet literacy of older adults suggests a graphic version of MyPyramid is needed. Emphasized are whole grains and variety within the grains group; variety and nutrient density, with specific emphasis on different forms particularly suited to older adults' needs (e.g. frozen) in the vegetables and fruits groups; low-fat and non-fat forms of dairy products including reduced lactose alternatives in the milk group; low saturated fat and trans fat choices in the oils group; and low saturated fat and vegetable choices in the meat and beans group. Underlying themes stress nutrient- and fiber-rich foods within each group and food sources of nutrients rather than supplements. Fluid and physical activity icons serve as the foundation of MyPyramid for Older Adults. A flag to maintain an awareness of the potential need to consider supplemental forms of calcium, and vitamins D and B-12 is placed at the top of the pyramid. Discussed are newer concerns about potential overnutrition in the current food landscape available to older adults.
authors.affiliation: Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111, USA. alice.lichtenstein@tufts.edu
authors.forename: Alice H
authors.initials: AH
authors.lastname: Lichtenstein
authors.forename: Helen
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Rasmussen
authors.forename: Winifred W
authors.initials: WW
authors.lastname: Yu
authors.forename: Susanna R
authors.initials: SR
authors.lastname: Epstein
authors.forename: Robert M
authors.initials: RM
authors.lastname: Russell
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D004032:Diet / Q000592:standards*; D005260:Female; D005502:Food; D017408:Guidelines as Topic; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009751:Nutritional Requirements; D014481:United States