Best Nutrition and Dietetics Hospital in Hebbal, Bangalore

What is Adult Nutrition and Why is it Crucial?

It is imperative to eat a healthy and balanced diet to ensure that your body receives the nutrients it needs. Our organs need nutrients to function and develop. Besides carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, water also contributes to their growth and efficient functioning. It is essential to follow a healthy diet regardless of your age. It can provide you with energy and help you lose weight. Furthermore, it may be beneficial to the treatment of certain diseases, such as osteoporosis, hypertension, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. Your body and lifestyle change as you age, and your need to maintain your health. The amount of calories you consume may be minimised, but you must still take in sufficient nutrients to remain healthy. It is recommended for adults to consume more protein.

As you age, you may find it more difficult to eat a healthy diet. These changes include,

• A change in one's routine life, such as suddenly living alone or finding it difficult to go around the house
• The consumption of medications, which can alter the taste of food, because your mouth is dry, and suppress your appetite
• Your sense of smell and taste may significantly decrease 
• Experiencing difficulty chewing or swallowing your food.

Neonates and Paediatrics Nutrition

The principles of paediatric nutrition are the same as those for adults. There is no difference in the types of nutrients that each needs, such as vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. However, the quantity of specific nutrients that children require at different ages differs. The neonate can be returned to the mother for feeding immediately after delivery if the delivery is uncomplicated and the neonate is alert and healthy. Breastfeeding success is enhanced when the newborn is placed at the breast as soon as possible after birth. The tendency to vomit after eating is not uncommon but should subside within 48 hours. 

You may wish to consider the following nutrient-dense foods,

• Protein: It is recommended that you consume seafood, lean meat and poultry, eggs, beans, peas, soy products, and unseasoned nuts and seeds.

• Fruits: Encourage your child to consume a variety of fresh and uncanned fruits. Make sure that your child drinks 100% juice without the addition of sugars and limit the quantity they ingest. It is recommended that you look for canned fruit that is labelled as light or packed in its juice, which means it has a low sugar content. A one-quarter cup of dried fruit is comparable to one cup of fresh fruit. Dried fruits can contribute extra calories if consumed in excess.

• Vegetables: Vegetables may be served fresh, canned, frozen, or dehydrated. You should consume a variety of vegetables every week, including dark green, red, and orange vegetables, beans, peas, carbohydrates, and others. Look for canned or frozen vegetables rich in sodium when choosing them.

• Grains: Whole grains, such as whole-wheat bread, oatmeal, popcorn, quinoa, or brown or wild rice, are encouraged. You should limit the consumption of refined grains such as white bread, pasta, and rice.

• Dairy Products: You should encourage your child to consume fat-free or low-fat dairy products, such as milk, yoghurt, cheese, or enriched soy beverages.

Limit your Child's Calorie Intake from the Following Sources,

• Added Sugar: Keep added sugar to a minimum. It is imperative to note that naturally occurring sugars, such as those found in fruit and milk, are not processed. Brown sugar, maple syrup, honey, and others are examples of added sugars. Be sure to read the nutrition labels. Choose cereals that contain a minimal amount of added sugar. Avoid drinks with excessive sugars, such as sodas and sports drinks.

• Saturated and Trans Fats: You should avoid saturated fats, which are fats derived primarily from animal sources, such as red meat, poultry, and full-fat dairy products. Replace saturated fats with vegetable and nut oils, which contain essential fatty acids and vitamin E. Olives, nuts, avocados and seafood contain healthy fats as well. Trans fats should be reduced by limiting the consumption of foods which contain partially hydrogenated oils.

• Sodium Content: Most children have large quantities of sodium in their daily diets. Encourage snacking on vegetables and fruits instead of chips and cookies. Make sure that the product has a low sodium content as stated on the nutrition label.

Ask your child's doctor or a nutritionist if you have any queries about kids’ nutrition.

Critically ill Patients Requiring Specialised Nutrition Support

Nutrition is essential to overall health, however, it is particularly relevant during critical illness when the body is subjected to extreme physiological stress. During times of stress, the basal metabolic rate increases, leading to an increase in energy expenditure and, in particular, the requirement for protein. Therefore, critically ill patients are at a greater risk of malnutrition. It is imperative to assess the individual's energy, protein, vitamin, and mineral requirements to develop a plan of care. To support critically ill patients, it is essential to maximise oral intake and to use artificial nutrition in the form of enteral or parenteral feeding. This is in addition to a multidisciplinary team approach. Nutritionists and nutrition support teams provide valuable support for nurses and medical teams caring for these patients. Nurses need to be aware of when to refer these patients to these specialists.

1. Analysis of Nutrition

By assessing and screening nutrition, it is possible to detect individuals who are at risk of malnutrition. Nonetheless, the terms "nutrition screening" and "nutrition assessment" refer to two different processes and should not be used interchangeably.

2. The Calculation of Nutrient Requirements

Critically ill patients should receive a full range of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals. It is common to specifically refer to the amount of energy and protein required by the patient when nutritional requirements are discussed. It is often difficult to identify the nutritional requirements of patients, so consulting a nutritionist is necessary. If the patient is at risk of refeeding syndrome, a slow, controlled delivery of nutrition is essential to prevent malnutrition.

3. Providing Nutritional Support

A food-first approach should be taken whenever possible, assuring patients to consume high-protein foods. In supplementation to dietary intake, oral nutritional supplements should also be used to increase the energy and protein intake of critically ill patients.

Patients Dealing with Terminal Illnesses and Lifestyle Diseases

1. Diabetes

It is simple to follow a diabetes diet by eating the healthiest foods in moderate amounts and adhering to regular meal times. Diabetes diets are healthy eating plans that are high in nutrients and low in fat and calories. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are the key components. A diabetes diet is the most suitable eating plan for most people. A diabetes diet consists of eating three meals a day at regular intervals. In this way, your body can better utilise the insulin it generates or receives as a result of treatment. A registered dietitian can assist you in creating a diet that is tailored to your health goals, tastes, and lifestyle. In addition, they can advise you on how to improve your eating habits. This includes the selection of portion sizes suited to your weight and level of activity.

2. Hypertension

The nutritional status and intake of many nutrients influence hypertension and its severity. Obesity and excessive energy intake cause hypertension. Obesity is associated with increased activity of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone and sympathetic nervous systems, insulin resistance, salt-sensitive hypertension, excessive salt intake, and impaired kidney function. High sodium chloride intake is closely associated with hypertension. Alcohol consumption may elevate blood pressure acutely. A high potassium, polyunsaturated fatty acid, and protein intake may lower blood pressure. Exercise may also be beneficial. Amino acids, tea, green coffee bean extract, dark chocolate, and foods rich in nitrates may reduce blood pressure, according to some studies.

3. Metabolic Syndrome

Overhauling your diet can be daunting. However, you do not have to go to extremes. Start by eliminating any non-healthy foods from your diet as a first step. The following are among them,

• Sugary snacks, white flour, and sugar-sweetened beverages are refined carbohydrates that lack fibre and nutrients. Additionally, they cause spikes in blood sugar levels and contribute to overeating and obesity.
• Saturated fats can be found in foods such as red meat, whole-milk dairy products, and a wide variety of baked foods
• There have been links between heart disease and cured meats such as hot dogs, bacon, and deli meats. As well as being high in sodium, they also contribute to high blood pressure. 
• Foods that have been processed, such as packaged and fast food. It is common for these products to contain harmful ingredients, including refined carbs, added sugars, excessive salt, and harmful saturated fats. Avoid processed foods as much as possible.

4. Cardiac Problems

• Increasing dietary fat intake raises cardiovascular disease risk 
• Dairy products and meat contain saturated fatty acids that raise cholesterol. Industrially hardened oils contain trans fatty acids, which increase the risk of coronary heart disease. While trans fatty acids have been eliminated from many parts of the world, they remain in deep-fried fast foods
• Dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids can reduce cardiovascular disease risk. They are abundant in soybean and sunflower oils, and fatty fish. Polyunsaturated fatty acids can improve blood pressure, heart function, blood clotting, and inflammation.

Patients Recuperating Post-surgery and Infections

1. Nutrition and Dietitians 

Following surgery, your primary concern should be wound healing and recovery. If you eat well and adequately, you can regain strength and recover more quickly, whereas eating insufficiently (or the wrong foods) may lead to malnutrition, prolonged wound healing, and increased infection risks. Consult your doctor and/or dietitian regarding your diet after surgery, as an individual's nutritional needs vary according to age, gender, height, weight, and any pre-existing medical conditions. To aid in the recovery after an operation, certain foods can be beneficial. To assist with the recovery process, you will likely require more protein, fluids, vitamins, and minerals. As soon as you have been authorised by your physician to consume solid foods after surgery, include all the following foods in your diet:

• Foods High in Protein

As your body requires more protein for wound healing, it is imperative to consume an appropriate amount of protein after surgery. The protein in your diet also contributes to the growth of your muscles and improves your immune system. The following are some examples of protein sources,

• Lean meats, skinless poultry, and fish
• Embryos
• Tofu and enhanced soy milk are examples of soy-based products
• Dairy products such as milk and yoghurt
• Lentils and beans
• Nuts.

• Whole Grains

Carbohydrates are the main source of energy for your body. Whole grains are rich in fibre, aid in constipation prevention, and provide essential nutrients for wound healing after surgery, as opposed to refined carbohydrates. Whole grains include the following,

• Oatmeal
• Cereals
• Bread made from whole wheat or wholemeal
• Rice of brown colour
• Noodles and pasta made from whole wheat.

• Fruit

Aside from fibre, fruits provide important nutrients, such as vitamin C, which is beneficial for the regrowth of collagen and soft tissues, and the recovery of wounds. Vitamin C can be obtained from the following foods,

• Orange
• Kiwi
• Papaya
• Guava
• Berries.

• Healthy Fats

Like carbohydrates, fats are an additional healthy source of energy. It is critical to eat an adequate amount of high-quality fats following an operation. Healthier options include,

• Olive oil
• Canola oil
• Peanut oil
• Sunflower oil
• Sesame oil.

• Iron-rich Food

Iron is a major component of haemoglobin, a type of protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs to all parts of the body. Insufficient iron may lead to fatigue or weakness. You should include iron-rich food in your postoperative diet to replenish your red blood cells. Iron-rich foods include,

• Meat 
• Organ meats
• Poultry
• Seafood
• Fortified breakfast cereals
• Nuts and seeds
• Enriched bread
• Spinach.

Eating well helps you heal more quickly, increases your energy levels, and prevents constipation and fatigue after surgery. By making healthy food choices, your body can recover gradually, helping you to heal more quickly so you can return to normal activities.

Patients Requiring Medical Nutrition Therapy

1. Gastrointestinal Diseases

Food is acquired and digested by the digestive tract, nutrients and water are absorbed, and waste products are excreted from the body by the gastrointestinal tract. A proper diet and a functioning GI tract must facilitate the absorption of nutrients, prevent nutrient deficiencies and malnutrition, repair damaged intestinal epithelium, restore normal luminal bacteria populations, facilitate normal GI motility, and maintain normal immunity functions. A person's GI system is influenced largely by the amount of food consumed, its form, the rate with which it is consumed, and the composition of the diet consumed. The symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders may be ameliorated with the aid of these products. The nutritional and no nutritional components of the diet are both relevant for the health of the gastrointestinal tract. However, they may also be related to or influence the development of GI pathological conditions. Diet plays an integral role in the recovery of the intestinal system and the successful treatment of gastrointestinal disorders.

2. Kidney Disease

With the increase in the ageing population around the world, Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is becoming more common. The accumulation of metabolic waste products and excessive electrolytes can significantly impair the health of patients with chronic kidney disease as their kidney function declines.

A patient's diet should be taken into consideration as nutritional management of CKD is believed to reduce uremic symptoms and provide beneficial effects on the development of kidney dysfunction. According to many guidelines, kidney patients should limit their protein intake, as high-protein diets may exacerbate their condition. It is generally advised to limit salt intake as excess sodium may contribute to CKD progression and mortality. The signs of muscle weakness and hypertension are associated with low potassium levels, while cardiac arrhythmia is associated with high potassium levels. To maintain serum potassium levels within a normal range, recent guidelines recommend adjusting dietary potassium intake based on an individually determined need. Given the numerous dietary considerations for patients with chronic kidney disease, effective nutritional management is a challenging undertaking. The most successful outcome for patients with chronic kidney disease requires a customised approach.

3. Endocrine Disorders

Even when patients with endocrine diseases consume an adequate diet, nutritional disturbances may occur. Under certain circumstances, nutrition can play a critical role in the development of these diseases. The endocrine system is affected by nutritional changes, resulting in serious disorders. Urbanisation has led to an epidemic of nutritional endocrine disorders, such as obesity, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes.

• Diabetes

Maintaining normal blood glucose levels is the goal of medical nutrition therapy for diabetes. Maintain optimal levels of serum lipids. Keep a reasonable weight for adults. - Ensure that children and adolescents grow and develop normally. Nutritional balance and positive outcomes throughout pregnancy and lactation. Prevention and treatment of acute complications, such as hypoglycaemia and short-term illnesses. Keep a healthy balance between food, medication, and exercise. Aim to prevent, slow the development of, or treat comorbid diseases such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and nephropathy. To optimise overall health, it is essential to maintain a balanced diet.  

• Cancer

Making conscious food choices can contribute to the development of a healthy immune system. To maintain a healthy body weight, it is essential to consume foods that provide adequate calories, nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, and fluids.

Aside from nausea, taste changes, and a loss of appetite, weight loss is a possible result of the side effects associated with cancer treatment. Medication, reduced activity levels, and emotional stress may all lead to weight gain for some individuals. To determine the appropriate nutritional plan for you, you should take into account both the type and the treatment of your cancer. Consult with your healthcare provider so that you can identify your nutrition goals and devise strategies that will assist you in achieving those goals.

As a general rule, nutritionists recommend that to maintain proper health, it is important to consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Cancer survivors must consume a healthy diet to maintain their health to reduce their risk of developing other health conditions, such as heart disease, type-2 diabetes, and bone thinning.

3. Heart Diseases 

The most effective diet for preventing heart disease is one full of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, fish, poultry, and vegetable oils; and eliminating red and packaged meats, refined carbohydrates, or beverages with added sugar, sodium, and trans fats.

4. Lung Diseases

The use of simple carbohydrates, such as table sugar, candy, cake, and regular soft drinks, should be restricted. Consume 20 to 30 grams of fibre daily from foods such as bread, pasta, nuts, seeds, fruits and vegetables. Maintain healthy respiratory muscles by eating a healthy source of protein at least twice a day. Milk, eggs, cheese, meat, fish, poultry, nuts, and legumes are all nutritious foods

5. Hepato-Biliary Disorders

The most common diseases of the liver and biliary system are alcoholic cirrhosis and cholesterol gallstones. As a result of prolonged and excessive consumption of intoxicating beverages, alcoholic cirrhosis develops. The predisposition to alcohol abuse and liver cirrhosis has a genetic basis, as with most diet-related diseases.

Individuals Requiring Nutrition Care During Special Life-phases

1. Pregnancy

To maintain a healthy pregnancy, 300 extra calories are needed each day. Protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are recommended to provide these calories. Keep sweets and fats to a minimum. A healthy, well-balanced diet can also help reduce pregnancy symptoms like nausea and constipation.

2. Lactation

It is estimated that the lactating mother requires an additional 550 calories per day during the first six months of lactation. While her milk output is reduced from 6 to 12 months, an Indian mother has to consume an additional 400 kcal per day even though her milk output is reduced. It has been proven that a diet low in protein and energy will result in a reduction in milk production. In contrast, if a diet that is low in protein is consumed, the proportion of casein will also be reduced if the diet is low in protein. There is a need for an additional intake of fat for the body to fulfil its requirements for fatty acids. The level of fat in the diet would be sufficient to meet the higher energy requirements of nursing mothers.

3. Old Age

• To maintain a healthy lifestyle, you need to eat a variety of foods from all five food groups, including colourful vegetables, legumes/beans, fruit, grains (cereals), mainly whole grain and high fibre varieties; lean meats and poultry, fish, eggs, tofu, nuts, milk, yoghurt, cheese, and their substitutes, preferably ones that have a lower fat content
• It is very critical to stay hydrated by drinking six to eight cups of fluid every day
• Foods which are high in saturated fats, such as biscuits, cakes, pastries, pies, processed meats, commercial burgers, pizza, fried foods, potato chips, crisps, and other savoury snacks, should be avoided
• Instead of eating high-fat foods, which are mostly saturated fats, you should consume foods which are rich in polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. Instead of butter, cream, cooking margarine, coconut oil, palm oil, and coconut spreads, use oils, spreads, nut butter, and avocados instead
• Cooking and eating should be done in a way that reduces the amount of salt that is added to food and drinks.

4. Disabilities

In general, nutrition refers to the consumption of food that complies with the body's specific dietary requirements based on the intake of food. To maintain overall health, a well-balanced diet and regular physical activity are two of the most significant components. Poor nutrition can result in a reduction in immunity, an increase in susceptibility to disease, impaired physical and mental development, and a reduction in productivity. An organism's diet is largely determined by the availability, processing, and palatability of the food it consumes. To maintain a healthy diet, you must prepare and store your food in a way that prevents oxidation, heat, or leaching of nutrients. Nutrition and diet are terms that are used to refer to the consumption of food and the nourishment of the body. This is for growth and maintenance. A diet is defined by dietitians and nutritionists as a balanced meal that contains a variety of nutrients in appropriate portions and that contains a variety of nutrients each day.

5. Patients with Specific Conditions

Allergies

Here are five diet changes that can reduce seasonal allergies

Green Tea

There is evidence that the beverage contains natural antihistamines that reduce allergic reactions.

Avoid Eating Spicy Food

They cause similar symptoms to allergies - runny eyes, nose, mouth, etc. - and can exacerbate the symptoms.  

Consider Adopting the Mediterranean Diet

It has been suggested that eating clean, fresh foods included in this diet-fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, fish and olive oil can help many respiratory allergies, including asthma. 

Develop a Healthy, Sustainable Diet

The results of several studies have conclusively shown that obesity can make asthmatics more likely to experience attacks. People suffering from this condition can greatly benefit from maintaining a healthy weight. 

Reduce Salt Intake 

The function of the lungs can be improved by consuming less salt regularly. The majority of salt consumed by individuals is found in processed foods, which should be avoided. You can further reduce your salt intake by seasoning your meals with fresh herbs and spices.  

Lactose Intolerance

Foods and beverages rich in lactose, such as milk and milk products, may not need to be completely avoided. You are likely to receive less calcium and vitamin D if you do not consume any milk or milk products.

Lactose intolerance can be treated with different amounts of lactose. According to research, most people can consume 12 grams of lactose, the equivalent of one cup of milk, without experiencing any adverse effects.

Malabsorption Syndromes

The occurrence of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D deficiencies has increased over time. Dietary therapy involves a high-protein, high-calorie, low-fat diet that is often supplemented with MCTs to minimise steatorrhea. There is a low incidence of water-soluble vitamin deficiency; however, supplementation with a small daily dose is safe and should most likely be prescribed. A review of the physical constitution and prothrombin time can be used to identify fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies. 

Weight Management

Weight management refers to the techniques and physiological processes that contribute to a person's ability to achieve and maintain a particular weight. The majority of weight management techniques incorporate long-term lifestyle strategies that promote healthy eating and regular physical activity. Having reached your goal weight, you will need to maintain a healthy lifestyle to maintain the weight that you have lost. Keep a cheerful attitude and follow the guidelines below if you wish weight management

• Studies have shown that more active people are more likely to maintain their weight loss than those who are less active. Develop a weekly exercise schedule that consists of a minimum of 200-300 minutes.

• Drink plenty of water. It is important to drink plenty of water or other unsweetened beverages that do not contain calories. Sugar-sweetened beverages should be avoided.

• Ensure that you consume whole foods. Eat whole, unprocessed foods that are high in fibre and produce, contain lean protein sources, and are low in fat.

• Be mindful and responsible when eating. Be aware of portion sizes and avoid overeating. The nutrition facts on food labels listed on packages, including the serving size, should be reviewed. You may be able to choose smaller portions at meals if you use smaller plates and bowls. Make mealtime a priority. Make sure you eat slowly and concentrate on what you are eating. Observe your body's physical cues to stop eating before you become overweight. As you would on any other day, choose your food wisely on special occasions as well.

• Make a meal plan in advance. If you plan meals, you will be able to make healthier choices that are not influenced by hunger. Consider cooking your meals and reserving restaurant dining for special occasions. You can control your hunger throughout the day by packing low-calorie snacks such as fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

• Decrease screen time. More time in front of the television or computer means less time on your feet using calories. Choose enjoyable activities that keep you on your feet and moving during leisure time. This movement is important in addition to exercise time.

• Be aware of your actions. Who will be responsible for your actions if you do not hold yourself accountable? Take regular measurements of your body weight or weigh yourself every week. Try to keep a record of your food and exercise for a few weeks if you find yourself reverting to old habits.

• Become a member of a weight management program. Longer and more frequent engagement will result in greater long-term success.

• Maintain a positive attitude. Put your faith in yourself! Don't forget that some days will be better than others. When you have an overeating day, learn to pick yourself up and move forward. Healthy eating begins with each new day.

• Consider the long term. It is important to note that a diet is only a short-term method or tool for losing weight. To maintain weight loss, long-term changes must be made. You should rethink your old eating habits and identify the habits that have contributed to your weight gain. Be mindful of what, when, why, where, and how you eat. Change your eating habits to achieve a healthier lifestyle. 

• Avoid absolutes. Avoid using words such as "never," "always," or "must." Be realistic with yourself and allow yourself to indulge occasionally. No one should feel guilty about enjoying their favourite treats. It is possible to incorporate smaller portions of higher-calorie foods into your new eating habits. Instead of focusing on what you cannot have, take the time to thoroughly enjoy each bite.

• Consult a registered dietitian (RD). Do not hesitate to make an appointment with a registered dietitian if you require expert nutrition advice. He or she will likely be able to provide helpful tips and point you in the right direction for a healthy lifestyle change.

• Maintain a healthy eating regimen. Your efforts have led you to where you are today. As new circumstances arise, keep updating your goals.

Consult with a team of specialised doctors at Manipal Hospitals to know more about treatments.