Adequate and healthy food is extra important for the elderly. But it is sometimes difficult for them to continue to eat enough. A common problem is malnutrition in the elderly. This can have major consequences for daily functioning. Read more about the causes of malnutrition, symptoms of malnutrition and medical nutrition here.

What exactly is malnutrition?

It is basically a deficiency of energy and nutrients. This may be because someone eats too little for a long time, or does not consume the right nutrition, so that not enough nutrients enter the body. So it is not directly related to being underweight.
With malnutrition, a person has a shortage of energy or nutrients, such as proteins, but also vitamins and minerals. The body really needs it to function. Vitamins and minerals help, among other things, with the production of hormones and enzymes and ensure that you get energy again, that your metabolism works optimally and that your resistance is up to standard.

A lack of energy and protein can also cause muscles to be broken down. The elderly need that strength so much to function properly. Causes of malnutrition in the elderly

There are several factors that can make you eat less. These can be both physical and mental problems.

Causes of malnutrition include:

• When you have a reduced appetite or a feeling of ‘full’ quickly
• Dental problems can make eating more difficult
• A reduced sense of smell or taste can make food less tasty
• Certain medications can also reduce your appetite. Side effects of medication such as nausea, diarrhea, constipation or stomach pain naturally do not contribute to appetite
• Loneliness and depression can cause you to eat less
• Reduced mobility can also prevent you from going shopping or preparing meals

The above causes of malnutrition can have consequences for your daily functioning. Consider, for example, (social) activities, but also shopping, cycling or walking can become more difficult. You are also more susceptible to illness and recovery from it may take longer.

Symptoms of malnutrition

The sooner malnutrition in the elderly is noticed, the better. These may be some symptoms of malnutrition in the elderly:

• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Stress
• Confusion
• Concentration problems
• Dizziness (this increases the chance of falling)
• Nausea
• Reduced resistance
• Mood swings
• Condition issues
• Slower wound healing
• Loss of muscle mass
• Reduced heart and lung capacity
• More and more serious complications after surgery
• Slower recovery after illness or surgery

Nutricia supplement

Are you not getting enough nutrients through your regular diet? Then a doctor or dietician may advise medical nutrition. Medical nutrition should be used under medical supervision. Your doctor or dietitian can recommend medical nutritional drinks as a supplement to or as a replacement for your normal diet.

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