It’s often recognized that eating well can help one live longer, but what “eating well” implies isn’t always apparent. This is especially true for older adults, whose dietary requirements differ greatly from those of any other age group. Here are ten myths about senior nutrition that are widely held to be true yet have been debunked. Learn more about them so that you and your parents or elderly loved ones can start eating healthy and improve your family’s health.
It Is Natural for Older Adults to Lose AppetiteSeniors do require less food than younger adults due to metabolic changes and lower energy output, but a significant lack of appetite is not normal and may indicate a major health concern.
Furthermore, simple factors such as a decreased sense of taste or dental difficulties might drive older adults to eat less and give the impression that their appetite has dropped when it has not. Seniors should weigh themselves on a regular basis to check for changes. Any abrupt weight loss should be seen as a red flag and should be followed up with a visit to the doctor.
Those Who Are Not Overweight Can Consume AnythingEven those who are at a healthy weight might acquire diabetes and heart disease if they consume too many high-fat and sugary products.
This is especially important for older adults since difficulties with cooking might lead to a diet in which their main staple is a pre-packaged meal or an unhealthy indulgence of a specific food category. Even seniors who are trying to gain weight should consume a well-balanced diet rather than filling up on meals heavy in fat, salt, and sugar or poor in nutrients.
Seniors Require Fewer Nutrients Due to Reduced MetabolismWhile seniors may require slightly fewer calories and dietary quantity than younger adults, they require just as many, if not more, nutrients. One factor is that our ability to absorb nutrients declines as we age. Physicians specifically advise older adults to boost their consumption of calcium, as well as vitamins B12 and D.
Seniors Can Skip Meals If They Have A Weak AppetiteSkipping meals has a number of disadvantages. For one thing, it might drive our bodies to want food to the point that we overindulge at our next meal, which would be unhealthy.
On the other side, and rather oddly, missing meals might reduce a senior’s appetite even more. Another significant concern of missing meals is that it might disrupt blood sugar levels, which has several bad health consequences.
Lead a Fulfilling Life at Conservatory At Keller Town CenterWe work diligently to assure that the golden years of our residents are pleasant and rewarding. Conservatory At Keller Town Center residents will look forward to a range of engaging activities and events to keep their days busy. We also host movie screenings, educational workshops, and religious gatherings. Furthermore, our Celebrations Activities & Events activities calendar is continually reviewed and revised, providing residents with something enjoyable to do every day.
Contact us to learn more about living in Conservatory At Keller Town Center and discover what we have to offer!