The Ministry of Health advised on Apr. 3 that older adults should take extra care with their diet during Holy Week, as changes in eating habits can impact their health. The ministry said the digestive process in older people is slower and their immune systems are more sensitive to bacteria found in poorly stored foods, especially when meals are prepared outside the home.
Dr. Alfredo Stuart Barreto, a geriatrician at the National Hospital Cayetano Heredia, said there should not be strict restrictions on food consumption but warned that special attention must be paid to portion sizes of carbohydrates and to monitoring salt and sugar levels, which often increase in traditional dishes served during this holiday period.
Stuart Barreto recommended including fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids—such as salmon, trout, or mackerel—for older adults due to their high nutritional value. However, he cautioned against preparations like ceviche or semi-cooked fish because too much lemon can cause gastritis. “For an older adult, the ideal is steamed fish, grilled fish or a stew-style preparation with vegetables where all essential vitamins are present,” Stuart Barreto said.
He also suggested using cooking methods such as steaming, grilling or air frying to avoid excessive oil use; accompanying meats or fish with moderate portions of sweet potato, potato or corn while prioritizing vegetables; and moderating consumption of highly acidic dishes that may require extra salt for flavor balance.
The Ministry emphasized its commitment to protecting the well-being of older adults and urged people to remain alert for any persistent discomfort. In case symptoms arise, individuals should seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health center or call Line 113 Salud.
