Signs an Older Adult Needs Better Nutrition

By: Jefferey Morgan

Whether we like it or not, we can’t stop the aging process. Sooner or later we will all get older. As the body ages, it changes, and people’s metabolism inevitably slows down. Many older people are not as active as they once were, which means fewer calories are required to provide the energy required.

It’s very easy for adults to have an imbalanced diet. It is something we should all think about; but it is especially important for older people to look at what they’re eating. Signs in older people that show they are not getting enough nutrition can be a loss of energy or a noticeably weakened immune system. Nutrition should also be the first thing looked at in case of an unusual change in behavior patterns.

Thankfully, there are many things we can do to make sure our aging loved ones are eating enough nutrients:

Ward off arthritis with omega 3 fatty acids: Research has proven that omega-3 fats reduce the risk of contracting cancer, arthritis or heart disease. These healthy, monounsaturated fatty acids reduce inflammation and, by doing so, aid in good health. Omega-3s can be found in fish (especially salmon) and flaxseed oil. It is recommended that aging adults have two sources of these foods every week. In special circumstances, a nutritionist may also advise some older adults to opt for omega-3 supplements.

Boost bone health with calcium & vitamin D: Calcium is a vital mineral that keeps bones healthy, and the need for it actually increases as a person ages. Calcium also helps lower blood pressure. Adults over fifty must consume the equivalent of four cups of milk a day to obtain enough calcium. If your loved one is not into dairy, they can always include more leafy green veggies into their diet, including collard, broccoli, kale, figs or salmon.

Keep sodium consumption under control: Sodium increases the possibility of high blood pressure, so it needs to be limited as much as possible. A diet low in sodium will assist in good health, and the best way of doing this is to eat plenty of fruit and vegetables.

Hydration matters: Older people don’t get thirsty as often as younger people. However, they do require the same amount of fluids; it is important to ensure that your loved one is drinking enough throughout the day. Dark urine is a warning sign of dehydration. (Learn more: Hydration: A Miracle Cure for Dizziness and Incontinence)

The great importance of making changes: Older adults can have trouble understanding and accepting the need for change, so if a change of diet is required for your loved one, it will be necessary to make the shift gradually. It’s very much a slow and steady process. Try having dinner with your aging loved ones at least one or twice a week, if possible. You’re not just making sure they eat their veggies; you’re also keeping them company. Don’t highlight the change of diet or make them feel special for the wrong reasons, though. Meal times together are also an excellent opportunity to introduce new foods.

Smoothies are a healthy way of adding vitamins: Smoothies are a very useful way of getting more fruit into a person’s diet, and wheat germ can be included in a smoothie for added protein. They’re very easy to digest and can be had at any time. If necessary, food can be blended into a smoothie to assist with the nutritional diet. Spinach for example, works excellent when blended with oranges and apples. For a sweeter taste, you can add one tablespoon of honey.

If you have any doubts about an aging loved one’s diet and whether they are getting enough nutrients, then it is essential to consult a doctor. It’s very easy to assume the food you have eaten all your life will do the same job as you age. Unfortunately, as the body changes so does its ability to extract nutrients from food, hence the need for more targeted food types.

The body of a 60-year-old doesn’t function like the body of a 30-year-old. That being said, adults should be aware that the diets of their aging relatives have to be more complex in order to keep them healthy.

Support them to the best of your abilities. Help them include more essential vitamins and minerals into their diet to preserve and even improve their general health levels.

Jefferey Morgan writes for the site Nuique.com which offers vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements online. Apart he has a great experience in writing about health and fitness related issues and poses a deep knowledge at this field.

Original Post: http://www.agingcare.com/Articles/signs-senior-needs-better-nutrition-177986.htm