Where you eat becoming as important as what you eat
By Kelly Shue
THE ERICKSON TRIBUNE
A recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Merck Institute of Aging & Health reports that poor nutrition is a growing problem for the older generation. They advise doctors and communities to encourage older Americans to adopt healthier lifestyles.
"They are not doing all they can, not only to enjoy more years in their lives but also more life in their years," said Dr. Terrie Fox Wetle, president of the Gerontological Society of America, which released the survey at its annual meeting.
Among the study's findings:
• Two-thirds of older Americans do not eat five servings of fruits and vegetables a day, the government recommended allotment.
• One-third of Americans older than 65 are not getting any leisure-time physical activity, such as gardening, walking or golf.
• One-fifth of older Americans are obese—30 pounds or more overweight.
Changing needs
One of the main reasons for this growing epidemic is that older Americans do not know that their diet requirements have changed from their younger years. Because activity levels often decline, it’s important to maintain a diet high in nutrients and low in fat.
According to the Health Promotion Board, people 65 and older “remain the fastest growing segment of the American population and are most susceptible to the numerous health risks from a nutrient-poor diet.”
Their studies confirm that “those living alone and who face financial difficulties tend to skimp on food, and may cook only one dish a day to be eaten over breakfast, lunch and dinner.
“Some people neglect their nutrition because they lack the cooking skills and knowledge about nutrition (especially after the death of the spouse who used to prepare the meals in the household), suffer from loneliness and depression, or weakness and fatigue. Others consume too much deep-fried, oily food instead of more nutrient- dense foods like fruit, vegetables and whole grains.”