Download Summary for Chapter 16 – Life Cycle Nutrition

Summary for Chapter 16 – Life Cycle Nutrition: Adulthood and the Later Years
Life expectancy in the United States increased dramatically in the 20th century. Factors that enhance longevity
include limited or no alcohol use, regular balanced meals, weight control, adequate sleep, abstinence from smoking,
and regular physical activity. Energy restriction in animals seems to lengthen their lives. Whether such dietary
intervention in human beings is beneficial remains unknown. At the very least, nutrition—especially when combined
with regular physical activity—can influence aging and longevity in human beings by supporting good health and
preventing disease.
Many changes that accompany aging can impair nutrition status. Among physiological changes, hormone activity
alters body composition, immune system changes raise the risk of infections, atrophic gastritis interferes with
digestion and absorption, and tooth loss limits food choices. Psychological changes such as depression, economic
changes such as loss of income, and social changes such as loneliness contribute to poor food intake.
The table below summarizes the nutrient concerns of aging. Although some nutrients need special attention in the
diet, supplements are not routinely recommended. The ever-growing number of older people creates an urgent need
to learn more about how their nutrient requirements differ from those of others and how such knowledge can enhance
their health.
Nutrient
Effect of Aging
Comments
Water
Lack of thirst and decreased total body water make
dehydration likely.
Energy
Protein
Need decreases as muscle mass decreases
(sarcopenia).
Likelihood of constipation increases with low intakes
and changes in the GI tract.
Needs may stay the same or increase slightly.
Mild dehydration is a common cause of confusion. Difficulty
obtaining water or getting to the bathroom may compound the
problem.
Physical activity moderates the decline.
Vitamin B12
Atrophic gastritis is common.
Vitamin D
Increased likelihood of inadequate intake; skin
synthesis declines.
Intakes may be low; osteoporosis is common.
Fiber
Calcium
Iron
In women, status improves after menopause;
deficiencies are linked to chronic blood losses and low
stomach acid output.
Inadequate water intakes and lack of physical activity, along
with some medications, compound the problem.
Low-fat, high-fiber legumes and grains meet both protein and
other nutrient needs.
Deficiency causes neurological damage; supplements may be
needed.
Daily sunlight exposure in moderation or supplements may be
beneficial.
Stomach discomfort commonly limits milk intake; calcium
substitutes or supplements may be needed.
Adequate stomach acid is required for absorption; antacid or
other medicine use may aggravate iron deficiency; vitamin C
and meat increase absorption.
Senile dementia and other losses of brain function afflict millions of older adults, and others face loss of vision due to
cataracts or macular degeneration or cope with the pain of arthritis. As the number of people over age 65 continues
to grow, the need for solutions to these problems becomes urgent. Some problems may be inevitable, but others are
preventable and good nutrition may play a key role.
Older people can benefit from both the nutrients provided and the social interaction available at congregate meals.
Other government programs deliver meals to those who are homebound. With creativity and careful shopping, those
living alone can prepare nutritious, inexpensive meals. Physical activity, mental challenges, stress management, and
social activities can also help people grow old comfortably.