Ailments and Situations - Aging - Malnutrition |
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Page 3 of 8 Malnutrition As nutritional requirements change and your body is unable to synthesize or absorb nutrients at previous levels, malnutrition becomes an important concern. Protein, calories, vitamins, and mineral deficiencies are common in people aged 65 and over and may be due to apathy, a reduced sense of taste and smell, poor teeth and/or chewing problems, low income, and inability to obtain or prepare healthy meals. Digestive and other absorption problems are also of concern. It is important you eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients needed to maintain overall well-being. The following nutrients, food supplements, and herbs, will also help keep you on the right path. The nutrient listings below are quite extensive. In addition to a healthy diet, you may consider a multivitamin/mineral supplement and or nutrition shake. Consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner to determine a supplement most appropriate for your needs. Remedies:
- Food Supplements -Food Supplements Essential fatty acids provide your body with necessary fats to ensure proper brain and nervous system function. EFA's can be combined with a B complex vitamin (see below) to improve overall nervous system function. Flaxseed/linseed oil, borage oil, pumpkin seed oil, hemp seed oil, evening primrose oil, fish, eggs, and walnuts are all sources of EFA's. The oils may be the most ideal. Take one tablespoon daily on yogurt, rice and/or bean dishes, salads, and vegetables. If using flaxseed oil capsules, take 2 to 3 capsules daily, in the morning. If using evening primrose oil capsules take 1 500mg capsule daily, in the morning Do not cook with these oils. Heat denatures these oils and they lose their nutritional value. Be sure to keep oils refrigerated as they will go rancid if not kept cool. - Herbs -Herbs Garlic has powerful anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. It also helps lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels, has antioxidant properties, and supports the immune system. Add it to your favourite meal and enjoy the numerous benefits. If you prefer to go "sans aroma", you may also take odourless garlic capsules. If eating whole cloves, take 2 to 4 daily. If using capsules, take 600 to 1,200mg once or twice daily with meals. If using a tincture, take 2 to 4mL three times daily. Ginkgo biloba is commonly used to improve memory function. This herb enhances blood flow to the brain and results in increased oxygen availability and an overall improvement in mental function. Take 100 to 200mg three times daily in liquid or capsule form. - Lifestyle -Lifestyle There are a number of organizations that prepare nutritious meals for people who either cannot cook for themselves are unable to leave the house for a variety of reasons. Contact one of the organizations listed below for further information. Meal delivery services may also be available in your area. - Minerals -MineralsCalcium promotes bone integrity and helps prevent osteoporosis. Take 800 to 1,500mg daily. Use a chelated form for best absorption and avoid calcium carbonate, which may contain lead. Chromium helps maintain blood sugar levels. Take 200 to 500mcg daily. Copper promotes joint integrity. Take 2 to 3mg daily Magnesium assists calcium absorption, supports the cardiovascular system, and promotes proper sleep. Take 400 to 800 mg daily. Manganese also helps protect bones and joints. Take 3 to 15mg daily. Selenium is a powerful antioxidant that will help prevent free radical damage to cells. Take 150 to 300mcg daily. Zinc enhances your immune system and helps protect against prostatitis. Take 15 to 60mg daily. - Vitamins -Vitamins Vitamin A promotes healthy skin, boosts immunity, has antioxidant properties, and is important in proper eye health. Take 5,000 to 10,000 IU daily. A B-complex supplement provides multiple benefits. The various B's support your nervous system by providing it with the nutrients it needs to function properly. People with anxiety, depression, or stress (situations that can occur in concert with Alzheimer's) often benefit from additional B vitamins. B1 promotes liver and brain health. B2 helps provide energy and promotes healthy skin and proper vision. B6 improves cardiovascular and mental health. B12 promotes memory function (see below for more information). Take one 50mg capsule once or twice daily. Do not take more than 50mg at one time as your body cannot absorb a larger amount in a single dosage. B complex injections may also be considered for better absorption. You must discuss this option with your naturopath or other health practitioner. B12 injections may be necessary to address a deficiency. This is the most optimal method for absorption. You must discuss this option with your naturopath or other health practitioner. For more information, see Vitamin B12 Deficiency, below. Co-enzyme Q10 will help maintain a healthy cardiovascular system. Folic acid promotes cardiovascular function. Take 400 to 800mcg daily. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that also supports the immune system and connective tissues. Take 50 to 3,000mg daily. Increase to higher levels up to bowel tolerance. Vitamin D assists bone formation. Take 200 to 600 IU daily. Vitamin E is another antioxidant that also promotes proper cardiovascular function. Take 100 to 800 IU daily.
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