 |  Perspectives in Nutrition, 5/e Gordon M. Wardlaw,
Ohio State University
Margaret W. Kessel,
Ohio State University
Nutrition During Adulthood
Chapter 18 Summary- Compression of morbidity means delaying symptoms of and disabilities from
chronic disease for as many years of life as possible. Good nutritional habits,
especially following the Food Guide Pyramid and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans,
play a role in this process.
- Although scientists disagree as to the best diet recommendations for the general
public, most agree on some general principles, including those laid out by the
Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Such authorities recommend that individuals
eat a variety of foods; balance the food eaten with physical activity to maintain
or improve weight; choose a diet with plenty of grain products, vegetables,
and fruits; choose a diet low in saturated fat, and cholesterol; choose a diet
moderate in sugars; choose a diet moderate in sodium (salt); and moderate or
avoid alcoholic beverage intake. In addition, recommendations to reduce cancer
risk emphasize moderation in the use of cured and smoked meats.
- Although maximum life span hasn't changed, life expectancy has increased dramatically
over the past century. For many societies, this means that an increasing proportion
of the population is over 65 years of age. As health-care costs rise, the goal
of delaying disease becomes even more important for all of us.
- Aging begins before birth. Cell aging probably results from automatic cellular
changes and environmental influences, such as DNA damage. Add to this list damage
caused by electron-seeking free radical compounds, high blood glucose, hormonal
changes, and alterations in the immune system as possible causes.
- Nutritional problems of older adults are related to the presence of chronic
diseases and to the normal decreases in organ function that occur with time.
These include loss of teeth, lessened sensitivity to taste and smell, changes
in gastrointestinal tract function, and deterioration in cardiovascular and
bone health. Although disease affects nutritional state, the reverse is also
true. Undernutrition adversely affects immune function, allowing for infection.
- Alzheimer's disease is a progressive and irreversible brain disorder. Its
causes are only beginning to be understood. It differs from other types of senile
dementia in that the brain tissue accumulates abnormal protein plaques and tangled
nerves (observable by autopsy). Nutritional health for people in advanced stages
of disease is often complicated by special feeding problems.
- Scientists are only now beginning extensive study of specific nutrient needs
for older people. Diet plans should be based on a nutrient-dense approach and
individualized for existing health problems, decreased physical abilities, presence
of drug-nutrient interactions, possible depression, and economic constraints.
Specific nutrients, such as protein, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin B-6, folate,
vitamin B-12, zinc, and calcium, along with dietary fiber, often deserve special
attention in diet planning. Careful supplementation can help meet needs, especially
for adults 70 years of age and older.
- Health-care workers and family members should use available options for the
procurement of food for the elderly, especially for those who are nutritionally
compromised. Most communities have congregate or home-delivered meal systems,
food stamps, and other provisions for those who qualify.
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2002 McGraw-Hill Higher Education