Busted! Don’t Believe These Nutrition Myths!

Getting the right amount of nutrition is the key to a healthy lifestyle; it doesn’t matter what stage of life you are at. It becomes even more necessary to get proper nutrients at an old age.

Sadly, many false beliefs exist about the nutritional needs of seniors that can keep you and your parents or loved ones from eating right and improving their health.

So to help you steer clear of these misconceptions, Elder Services of Okaloosa County has debunked some of the most widely believed nutrition myths.

Myth 1: Senior malnutrition does not exist in the United States because we are a rich and prosperous country
The fact is that research shows that older adults are at high risk for malnutrition, and even those who have access to nutritious food may have chronic conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, and dementia, that can impact their appetite. Others do not have the means to purchase nutritious foods they need or may live in areas devoid of nutritious foods with limited transportation to stores. The paradoxical condition of being overweight and undernourished simultaneously is caused by consuming less expensive, highly processed, high-calorie food.

Myth 2: Following healthy guidelines can ensure nutritional needs
A second myth is that as long as seniors follow healthy eating guidelines, they should be fine. Unfortunately, most healthy guidelines do not provide for seniors’ details and special nutritional needs. Seniors’ nutritional needs may cause difficulty chewing or swallowing and decreased sense of smell and/or taste. Sometimes, guidelines suggest diets that could worsen some conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease. We consider this while preparing the meals.

Myth 3: Seniors have a slower metabolism, thus requiring fewer nutrients
It is believed that seniors can get what they need by consuming supplements. Foods that are high in nutrients are crucial to a healthy diet. Our bodies may not be able to absorb nutrients at an old age as readily as they did when we were younger. For older people, recommendations include boosting calcium, vitamin B12, and vitamin D intake. Most nutrients come from food, although supplements can still aid in achieving dietary objectives.

Elder Services meets a fundamental human need by creating and giving our participants a product rich in nutrients. Healthy eating promotes well-being, which fosters independence and a sense of dignity. We aim to retain our clients in their homes, where they feel most comfortable.

If you’re looking to steer clear of these myths, reach out to Elder Services of Okaloosa County as the leading licensed home health care agency in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Our services include senior home care assistance, respite care, personal care, assisted living facilities, and more! We provide in-home elder care and caregiver services across Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Mary Esther, Crestview, Niceville, Valparaiso, Shalimar, and the surrounding areas.

For a complete list of our services, please click here. If you have any questions about Elder Services of Okaloosa County, we’d love to hear from you, please contact us here.