HOW NUTRITIONAL NEEDS CHANGE WITH AGE
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BY METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION
EAT FORTIFIED CEREALS AND GRAINS
The ability to absorb vitamin B12 can decrease as one gets older and with the use of certain medicines . Many health professionals recommend patients get more vitamin B12 by consuming foods enriched with this vitamin . Vitamin supplements may be needed in addition to food .
DRINK MORE FLUIDS
Health . com says the sensation of thirst declines with age . Drinking water and other fluids becomes a priority to stay hydrated . It also helps with digestion .
Healthy eating is important at any age and can set the course for a life of vitality and wellness . Sufficient nutrition can help prevent chronic illnesses and make sure that growing bodies develop properly . As one ages , various changes take place in the body , making healthy eating even more essential .
According to Healthline , nutritional deficiencies can affect aging individuals , which can decrease quality of life and lead to poor health outcomes . Individuals should pay attention to their vitamin and mineral intake at various ages so they do not miss out on important nutrients . As a person ages , here are some approaches to consider .
CONSUME FEWER CALORIES
According to Connie Bales , associate director of the Geriatric Research , Education , and Clinical Center at Durham VA Medical Center , people need fewer calories every decade . That ’ s because individuals are moving around less and have less muscle . This causes a decline in metabolic rate .
PRIORITIZE BONE HEALTH
Osteoporosis is a concern for older adults , particularly women who have reached menopause . Osteoporosis occurs when bones become brittle and can break from only the slightest bump or fall , says the Mayo Clinic . Vitamin D and calcium help strengthen bones , and older adults may need more of these nutrients .
Individuals should speak with their health care providers and nutritionists for further insight into their changing nutritional needs . Such professionals can help customize diets to address specific health concerns .
INCLUDE MORE NUTRIENT-DENSE FOODS
Even though caloric needs go down with age , it ’ s important to pack as much nutrition into the calories a person does consume . That means finding nutrient-rich foods like whole grains , fruits , nuts , beans , vegetables , fish and lean cuts of meat .
CONSUME MORE LEAN PROTEIN
Muscle loss and loss of strength can develop as a person ages . Healthline says the average adult loses 3-8 % of their muscle mass each decade after age 30 . Eating more protein could help aging bodies maintain muscle .
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