As the body ages, bodily systems start to fail. Now, more than ever, healthy, balanced diets are a requirement as well as vitamin and mineral boosters prescribed by the physician.

Water in the body decreases with age, so many older folks will become dehydrated very easily. Sometimes they won't feel thirsty, while other times it's too much work to pour a glass of water. With this in mind, it's recommended that they drink at least 1 ounce of water for every 2.2 pounds of weight.

At this stage in life, protein is very important. Protein is needed to support a healthy immune system and prevent the wasting of muscle. Since energy needs are less, older folks should eat high quality protein such as eggs, lean meats, poultry, and fish.

Carbohydrates are the main source of energy for the entire body. You can find them in bread, cereals, pasta, and other grain products. A diet that's high in fiber and water will help to prevent constipation as well.

Fat intake for the elderly should be limited, not eliminated. You can limit fat by choosing lean meats, low fat dairy products, and food preparation methods that don't include frying. 

For the elderly, iron deficiency can be seen with those who aren't eating much. Good sources for iron include lean red meats or breakfast cereals.

As the body does not absorb it efficiently, zinc intake is normally a requirement with the elderly. Meat, poultry, and fish should be a part of your diet to help you meet the requirements for zinc.

Calcium is one ingredient that most elderly folks simply aren't getting enough of. Most believe that milk upsets their stomach, and therefore they will avoid it. They should be getting around 1,500 mg of calcium a day, and nonfat powdered milk can be used in recipes as a substitute for milk. Other foods such as yogurt, low fat cheese, and broccoli can also help you meet the requirements for calcium.

In order to absorb the benefits of B12, the stomach must produce the intrinsic factor. Most elderly people suffer from a deficiency in B12 because they have a condition known as atrophic gastritis. This condition causes inflammation of the stomach, bacterial overgrowth, and the intrinsic factor. Without the intrinsic factor, this vitamin can be absorbed.

Just because a citizen is senior doesn’t mean that the person should turn to couch potato-hood. Keeping the body active by regular activities like, exercising, gardening, house-cleaning and eating healthy will help the body maintain its good shape even as it ages. Remember, unused muscles atrophy. Use that body to keep it in good working condition.