What percentage of total calories should be derived from carbohydrates for elderly with COPD?

For elderly individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), it is often recommended that carbohydrates make up about 40-55% of their total calorie intake. This range serves multiple purposes in the dietary management of COPD.

Carbohydrates are an important energy source, especially for older adults who may have increased energy needs due to the disease process. COPD can affect the body's ability to utilize oxygen efficiently, leading to increased work of breathing and higher energy expenditure. Therefore, having a sufficient carbohydrate intake within this percentage range can help meet the energy demands without leading to excessive caloric intake, which can contribute to weight gain and further respiratory issues.

Moreover, adhering to this carbohydrate percentage can help ensure that there is a balance with the intake of fats and proteins, critical for maintaining muscle mass and overall health in the elderly population. Proteins are particularly important for COPD patients due to the muscle wasting that can occur with the disease, so an ideal distribution of macronutrients is necessary for their overall nutritional strategy.

Setting the carbohydrate levels above or below this range may not provide optimal energy or could lead to adverse health effects. For instance, excessively high carbohydrate intake (as suggested by the higher ranges) may lead to increased carbon dioxide production, which can exacer