ABSTRACT
A therapeutic diet is basically a normal diet which is modified because of the changes during disease or illness that occur in a person’s ability to tolerate or utilize food and nutrients. Most therapeutic diets involve modifications in consistency or bulk, energy content, or kinds and amounts of one or more nutrients. Although little is known about changes in nutrient requirements in illness, it is important that the food restrictions used in a therapeutic diet do not lead to an inadequate intake of nutrients. The nutritional adequacy of the diet must be carefully evaluated, especially if the diet is to be used for a long period of time.
