Seniors

Seniors who are most at risk for malnutrition are those who:

• Live alone.
• Do not eat foods from all 4 food groups.
• Are over 70 years.
• Drink more than 6 cups tea/coffee daily.
• Are house-bound.
• Have a poor appetite.
• Are on a budget.

By concentrating on getting enough key vitamins and minerals, for which seniors often fall short, they can improve and maintain their health. Some examples include:

• Vitamin B12 absorption lessens with age due to changes in the stomach. You can find vitamin B12 in meat, fish, eggs, and milk.
• More vitamin D is needed as we age because our skin makes less, and sun exposure declines, especially in the winter. Vitamin D is found in sardines, salmon, herring, margarine and milk.
• Calcium is needed to keep bones strong and prevent osteoporosis.
• Zinc is a mineral that can keep the immune system working. It is found in oysters, turkey, lima beans, bran cereal, nuts, milk and red meat.