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What strategies exist to increase caloric intake in older adults? - nutrition geriatrics
Hello everyone! Have you ever wondered what happens to our grandfathers and grandmothers as they age? As we get older, our bodies change, and sometimes, maintaining a balanced diet can be a challenge. Today we are going to talk about a crucial topic: how to ensure that our older adults are receiving enough calories. It is more important than you think, so get ready to learn a lot!
Imagine you no longer have the same desire to eat as before. What a nuisance! Well, that's what happens to many older adults. There are several reasons for this: changes in the sense of taste and smell, dental problems that make chewing difficult, medications that decrease appetite, and sometimes, simply loneliness and lack of motivation. Can you imagine eating alone every day? It doesn't sound very fun, does it?
When an older adult does not consume enough calories, they can fall into malnutrition. This can lead to serious problems such as muscle weakness, fatigue, a weakened immune system, and generally, a poorer quality of life. Nobody wants that! It's like your car running out of gas: it's not going to work well, right? Therefore, it is essential to ensure that they are well-nourished.
Now for the good stuff! Let's see what we can do to help our loved ones eat more and better.
Instead of three large meals a day, why not offer them six small meals? It's like pouring gasoline in little by little instead of filling the tank all at once. These meals should be rich in nutrients: protein, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Think of mini-snacks of fruit with yogurt, ham and cheese sandwiches, or small bowls of vegetable soup. Delicious and nutritious!
Healthy fats are an excellent way to increase calorie intake without having to eat large amounts of food. A handful of nuts, an avocado in the salad, or a drizzle of olive oil on the pasta? Perfect! These fats are good for the heart and brain, in addition to adding necessary calories.
Here are some tricks to make meals more caloric without them noticing:
A drizzle of olive oil in the soup, a little butter on the vegetables, or a spoonful of cream in the mashed potatoes. Voilà! More calories without radically changing the flavor.
Whole milk has more calories and fats than skim milk. If your grandparent likes coffee with milk, be sure to use whole milk. It's a small change with a big impact!
Some foods have more calories per serving than others. Prioritize those that are rich in calories and nutrients. For example, eggs, cheese, nuts, legumes, and meat are excellent choices. Think of them as caloric superfoods!
It's not just what they eat that matters, but how they eat it!
If your grandmother has trouble chewing, opt for soft and easy-to-swallow foods. Purées, soups, stews, yogurts... They are your allies! You can purée vegetables, meat, or fruits to make them easier to eat.
We eat with our eyes! If the dish looks appetizing, it is more likely that they will want to eat it. Decorate the plate with vibrant colors, use beautiful dishes, and present the food attractively. As if you were a star chef!
Sometimes, diet alone is not enough.
There are many nutritional supplements designed to increase calorie intake. Shakes, energy bars, powders to add to food... There are options for all tastes!
Before starting to use supplements, it is essential to consult with a doctor or a nutritionist. They can assess the specific needs of your loved one and recommend the most suitable supplement. Do not self-medicate!
Company matters!
Eating alone can be boring and demotivating. Invite your grandparent to eat with you, your family, or friends. Company makes the meal more enjoyable and stimulates the appetite.
Play soft music, light candles, decorate the table... Create a relaxing and cozy atmosphere! A pleasant environment makes eating more enjoyable and encourages appetite.
A little exercise can work wonders. A gentle walk, some stretching, or a yoga session can stimulate the appetite and improve mood. Move to eat better!
Health comes first!
It is important that a doctor evaluates your loved one to rule out any health problem that may be affecting their appetite. A complete examination can reveal hidden causes and allow for appropriate treatment.
Some medications can decrease appetite. Talk to the doctor to see if there are alternatives or if the doses can be adjusted. Communication is key!
Ensuring that our older adults receive enough calories is essential for their health and well-being. With a little planning, creativity, and affection, we can help them enjoy a full and active life. Let's spare no effort in caring for those who cared for us!
Is it normal for older adults to lose their appetite?: Yes, it is common due to physiological changes and factors such as medications or health problems. However, it is important to address it to prevent malnutrition.
What foods are most recommended to increase calorie intake?: Foods rich in nutrients and calories such as eggs, avocados, nuts, cheese, legumes, and meats.
When should I consider nutritional supplements?: If dietary strategies are not enough or if there is a risk of malnutrition. Always consult a health professional before starting to use them.
How can I make meals more appealing to an older adult with a poor appetite?: Present the dishes in a colorful and attractive way, use soft and easy-to-chew textures, and create a pleasant environment during meals.
What role does physical activity play in the appetite of older adults?: Moderate physical activity can stimulate appetite and improve mood, which can lead to better food intake.
