Nutrition prevents anorexia in the elderly

Older adults are at risk of inadequate energy and nutrients from anorexia (Anorexia of aging) This comes from many reasons, both physical and psychological, such as changes in smell and taste. Hormones regulate hunger and unbalanced satiety, slowing down the gastrointestinal tract. Increased inflammation Depression, etc.

In addition to anorexia, The digestive tract of the elderly also has a decrease in nutrient absorption. These nutrients play an important role in the body's internal functioning and can affect the appetite of the elderly.

1. Zinc (Zinc) It is one of the minerals that is important for both growth and immunity. The amount of zinc required per day by the elderly is 10.9 milligrams in men and 8.6 milligrams in women One of the symptoms of zinc deficiency is an abnormal sense of taste (Dysgeusia) This causes most foods to be bitter or metallic and can lead to anorexia.

This is because zinc contributes to the formation and healing of epithelial tissue (Epithelial tissue) Whether it's hair, skin, nails, smell and taste. Olfactory tissue (Olfactory epithelium) and taste buds on the tongue. It is also structured as epithelial tissue. In addition, many enzymes contain zinc, especially in the taste pores (Taste pore) In addition, zinc is important in its synthesis. DNA This plays a role in the formation of proteins. When the body lacks zinc Therefore, the creation of the substitution taste button is slower. Problems with taste

Food Sources of Zinc They are: Meat Fish & Seafood

For those who follow a vegetarian diet, you can choose various whole grains such as brown rice, oatmeal, dried nuts. Nuts, seeds, and grain products such as tofu, tempeh, whole grain bread, etc. Plant food sources that contain zinc are also high in phytate. You may need to eat more or you can soak the grains in water for several hours before cooking.    Phytate and make zinc better absorbed by the body.

2. Iron (Iron) It is a mineral that is present in the structure of hemoglobin (Hemoglobin) An important component of red blood cells, which are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. Iron deficiency is therefore a major cause of anemia (Anemia) The recommended amount of iron in the elderly is: 11 milligrams in men, and 10 milligrams in postmenopausal women

Anorexia is more common in older people with iron deficiency anemia. Education in 1945 2020 published in the journal PLOS ONE It has been found that people with iron deficiency anemia have levels of the hormone ghrelin.Ghrelin) Lower than people without anemia, which is a hormone associated with appetite. However, Anemia can be caused by causes other than iron deficiency, such as a lack of B vitamins. 12 Folate deficiency, chronic diseases, or the use of certain medications, etc.

Food sources of iron They are: Meat, eggs,

For those who follow a vegetarian diet, they may choose plants that are high in iron, including whole grains, dried beans, etc. Some dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, etc.

Meat contains iron in the form of heme (Heme iron) It is better absorbed than iron without heme (Non-heme iron) Eating iron-rich foods with fruits and vegetables that are high in vitamin C will help improve iron absorption.

3. Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid) It is an important vitamin in antioxidants. Synthesizes collagen and aids in the absorption of iron. The amount of vitamin C required per day by the elderly is 100 milligrams in men, and 85 milligrams in women A well-known disease caused by vitamin C deficiency is Vitamin C deficiency (Scurvy) One of the leading symptoms of this condition is decreased appetite.

In addition, one of the most common oral diseases in the elderly is periodontal disease (Periodontitis) It is caused by untreated gingivitis. can lead to anorexia; From pain and problems chewing food. If left unchecked, bacteria will accumulate in the area, which can eventually lead to tooth loss. Research that studies populations 12,419 People It was found that the consumption of vitamin C decreased. Increases the risk of periodontal disease up to 19% And if you are a smoker before. The risk will increase even more.

Food sources of vitamin C They are: Fruits and vegetables such as guava, puree, tamarind, rambutan, papaya, grapefruit, bell pepper, kale, broccoli, etc.

Although vitamins and minerals are associated with anorexia in the elderly, vitamin supplementation in the form of dietary supplements should be under the supervision of a medical professional to ensure that the elderly are taking vitamin or mineral supplements that the body is deficient in and can prevent the dangers of vitamin and mineral overdose.

By Medical Team BDMS Wellness Clinic Institute and the Association of Physicians for Health Rehabilitation and Promotion of Obesity Education, Bangkok (BARSO)

References:

1. Landi F, Calvani R, Tosato M, Martone AM, Ortolani E, Savera G, Sisto A, Marzetti E. Anorexia of aging: risk factors, consequences, and potential treatments. Nutrients. 2016 Jan 27;8(2):69.
2. Pisano M, Hilas O. Zinc and taste disturbances in older adults: a review of the literature. The Consultant Pharmacist®. 2016 May 1;31(5):267-70.
3. Younes S. The impact of micronutrients on the sense of taste. Human Nutrition & Metabolism. 2023 Dec 7:200231.
4. Ghrayeb H, Elias M, Nashashibi J, Youssef A, Manal M, Mahagna L, Refaat M, Schwartz N, Elias A. Appetite and ghrelin levels in iron deficiency anemia and the effect of parenteral iron therapy: A longitudinal study. Plos one. 2020 Jun 4;15(6):e0234209.
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6. Bureau of Nutrition, Department of Health, Ministry of Public Health. Dietary Reference Intake Tables for Thais 2020. 1st ed. Bangkok: A.V. Progressive Ltd., Part.: 2020. (in Thai)