My question starts with the age of my wife and myself, we are 65 and 73 years respectively. Everywhere I read that women can consume 2000 and men 2500 kcal per day. But if we do, we’ll be round in no time. As the elderly and pensioners, we use a lot less energy. We are outside the labor process, which means that we also consume less. I would like more useful information about the desired kcal consumption per day and other health information for the over-65s. How or where do the elderly get appropriate information?
Husband (73)
Suzan Tuinier, nutritionist
Thank you very much for the good question.
According to experts, the energy needs of persons between 60 and 70/75 years are of the same order as those of a person of 50 years.
This means:
for a man:
– 2000 to 2200 kcal if he leads an inactive life.
– 2200 to 2400 kcal if still active
for a woman:
– 1800 to 2000 kcal if she leads an inactive life
– 2000 to 2200 kcal if still active.
For people over 75, the data is less precise: about 2000 Kcal for men and 1800 for women.
These are, of course, guidelines. It is best to exercise and eat what makes you feel good and where you maintain a healthy weight.
It is important for both of you to take extra vitamin D in addition to a healthy diet, 10 micrograms per day. On the website of the Vitamin Information Bureau you can read more about healthy food and vitamins for seniors.
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