10 Questions to Ask About Nutrition and Aging
Medically Reviewed by Carol DerSarkissian, MD on November 28, 2022. Written by Peter Jaret on November 28, 2022
Nutrition and Aging Overview
As we age, our nutritional needs change significantly. While calorie requirements typically decrease, the need for certain nutrients like calcium, vitamin B12, and vitamin D increases.
Many older adults face challenges in maintaining proper nutrition due to decreased appetite, chewing difficulties, or medication interactions. Regular nutritional check-ins with healthcare providers become increasingly important.
Assessing Nutritional Needs
Warning signs of nutritional deficiencies:
- Unusual fatigue or weakness
- Hair loss or brittle hair
- Slow-healing skin sores
- Cracks at mouth corners
- Pale tongue appearance
Blood tests can reveal deficiencies in key nutrients like iron and vitamin D, even before symptoms appear.
Medication and Nutrition Interactions
Common medication effects:
• Appetite suppressants: Some antidepressants and heart medications
• Taste alterations: Certain antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs
• Nutrient absorption blockers: Various medications and treatments
Always discuss medication side effects with your doctor as they may require dietary adjustments.
Addressing Appetite Changes
While decreased appetite is common with age due to reduced activity and sensory changes, significant appetite loss or unintentional weight loss may indicate serious health issues.
Strategies:
- Eat smaller, nutrient-dense meals more frequently
- Enhance food flavors with herbs and spices
- Monitor weight changes and report significant loss to your doctor
Supplement Considerations
Supplement Guidelines:
- Multivitamins: May help if diet is inadequate but aren't a food substitute
- Calcium: Recommended if dairy intake is low
- Vitamin D: Often needed as synthesis decreases with age
Always consult your doctor before starting any supplements as they may interact with medications.
Salt and Alcohol Intake
Salt Reduction:
- Aim for <1,500mg sodium daily if you have hypertension
- Read labels as 75% of salt comes from processed foods
Alcohol Guidelines:
- Moderate amounts may benefit heart health
- Discuss safe limits with your doctor based on your health status
- Avoid beginning alcohol use solely for potential benefits
Lifestyle and Medication Reduction
Healthy eating and regular exercise may allow some older adults to:
- Reduce dosage of blood pressure or cholesterol medications
- Potentially eliminate certain prescriptions
Important: Never stop medications without medical supervision, even when making positive lifestyle changes.
When to See a Dietitian
Consider nutritional counseling if you:
- Have multiple dietary questions
- Experience significant weight changes
- Manage chronic conditions affected by diet
- Take multiple medications with food interactions
Many insurance plans, including Medicare, cover dietitian consultations for older adults.