Minerals in geriatric nutrition

Aging is a natural process that involves a number of changes in the human body. These changes can affect the absorption and metabolism of essential nutrients, including minerals.

Minerals play a vital role in the health and well-being of older people, and understanding their functions, sources and needs is critical to ensuring healthy and active aging. In this session, we will explore in depth the world of minerals in the elderly.

Introduction to Minerals

Minerals are inorganic nutrients that are needed by the human body in relatively small amounts but are essential for a variety of bodily functions. Although they do not provide energy in the form of calories as do carbohydrates, proteins and fats, minerals are crucial for optimal body function. Some of the most important minerals for health in the elderly include:

• Calcium: Calcium is essential for bone and dental health. In addition to maintaining strong bones and teeth, it also plays a role in muscle function, blood clotting and nerve signal transmission.

• Magnesium: Magnesium is necessary for more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body. It contributes to cardiovascular health, muscle and nerve function, and bone density.

• Potassium: Potassium is essential for maintaining fluid balance in the body and for muscle and nerve function. It can also help regulate blood pressure.

• Sodium: Sodium is an electrolyte that plays a key role in regulating water and salt balance in the body. However, excess sodium can contribute to blood pressure problems.

• Iron: Iron is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. Iron deficiencies can lead to anemia.

• Zinc: Zinc is essential for the immune system, wound healing and the function of many enzymes and proteins in the body.

Changes in Mineral Needs with Age

As we age, our bodies experience changes that can influence mineral needs. These changes include:

• Reduced Absorption: With age, the intestine's ability to absorb minerals may decrease. This means that older adults may need a slightly higher intake of minerals to maintain an adequate balance.

• Increased Risk of Deficiencies: Older adults may also face an increased risk of mineral deficiencies due to factors such as restrictive diet, decreased appetite, and chronic medical conditions.

• Drug Interactions: Some medications, common in the elderly, may affect the absorption or metabolism of certain minerals. It is important to be alert to these interactions.

Sources of Minerals for Older Adults

To meet mineral needs in the elderly, it is important to consume a balanced and varied diet that includes key mineral sources. Some of the best sources of minerals include:

Calcium:

• Low-fat dairy products such as milk, yogurt and cheese.

• Green leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale.

• Almonds and other nuts.

• Fish with edible bones such as canned salmon.

Magnesium:

• Nuts and seeds such as almonds, walnuts and pumpkin seeds.

• Legumes such as beans and lentils.

• Spinach and other green leafy vegetables.

• Whole grains such as oatmeal and brown rice.

Potassium:

• Bananas

• Potatoes and sweet potatoes.

• Tomatoes and tomato products.

• Beans and peas.

Sodium: It is important to control sodium intake, as excess can contribute to blood pressure problems. Limiting processed foods and the use of table salt can help maintain a proper balance.

Iron:

• Lean meats such as chicken and turkey.

• Fish.

• Legumes such as lentils and chickpeas.

• Fortified cereals.

Zinc:

• Lean meats.

• Nuts such as almonds and walnuts.

• Legumes.

• Dairy products.

Promoting a Mineral-Rich Diet in Older Adults

Leaders in the care of older adults, whether in health care, community or family settings, can play a key role in promoting a mineral-rich diet:

• Nutrition Education: Providing information about the importance of minerals and appropriate food sources can help older adults make healthier dietary choices.

• Meal Planning: Collaborating in planning balanced meals that include mineral-rich foods can facilitate adequate intake.

• Medical Supervision: Working in conjunction with health care professionals to assess and address any mineral deficiencies is essential to the well-being of older adults.

• Accommodating Individual Preferences: Respecting individual dietary preferences is important to ensure that meals are enjoyable and appetizing.