| Diet And Oral Health: A Vicious Circle For Some Seniors
No matter your age, it's important to eat a healthy diet — one that includes lots of fruits and vegetables and whole grains, and minimal amounts of fats and sweets. Such a diet provides necessary vitamins and minerals that keep your entire body — including your mouth — healthy and strong. Consult with a nutritionist or a dietician if you need help planning a healthy diet.
Eating right is especially important for older people because poor nutrition can contribute to a decline in health. People in poor health, or those who have mouth or teeth problems, are less likely to eat well, so a vicious circle can result that can have serious health consequences. Older people who live in nursing homes may be at a particular risk of developing vitamin deficiencies, as well as oral health problems.
People who wear dentures may have problems chewing certain foods and may lean toward soft diets, which are often high in carbohydrates and low in nutritional value.
Many older adults have mouth or teeth problems that make them less likely to consume a healthy diet.
Physical factors include:
- Changes in chewing ability
- Dry mouth (usually a side effect of medication)
- Changes in taste and smell
- Slowing of metabolism and activity level
- Reduction in nutrient absorption (sometimes caused by medication)
- Changes in eyesight and hearing
- Physical disabilities
- Untreated tooth decay
- Loose teeth
- Missing teeth that haven't been replaced with bridges, dentures or implants
- Ill-fitting bridges or dentures
Regular dental care can improve or prevent many of these problems. However, many older people do not visit a dentist regularly.
While many seniors lead a healthy, active life, some seniors may find themselves isolated or without the resources to live well. These problems can lead to a poor diet, which can cause physical problems. These psychological, social and other factors include:
- Isolation and loneliness
- Depression
- Poverty
- Changes in living arrangements
- Lack of financial resources
- Alcohol abuse
- Drug/nutrient interactions
- Improper use of nutritional supplements
Here are some suggestions to help you eat an adequate diet even if you are having health problems:
If you have problems chewing, you can:
- Chop, grind or puree meats.
- Use canned, sugar-free fruits and vegetables.
- Cook fresh vegetables to make them softer.
- Eat softer breads and pasta.
- Use instant breakfast drinks.
If you have dry mouth, you can:
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Suck on sugarless lemon drops or other sugarless candies.
- Talk to your dentist or doctor about saliva supplements.
If you have a diminished or altered sense of taste, you can:
- Add spices to your food.
- Try flavored dairy products (such as yogurt).
- Eat whole-grain breads and raw vegetables (they have more flavor).
If you have arthritis or a physical disability, you can:
- Eat plenty of stews, soups and applesauce.
- Eat tender meats or have your meats pureed.
- Have your fruits and vegetables cut into small pieces.
Visit your dentist if you have mouth pain, missing teeth, ill-fitting dentures or bridges, or other oral problems.
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