Recommended Nutrients For The Elderly With Starvation And Malnutrition

Malnutrition is caused by an overabundance or a deficit of nutrients in the diet, and starvation results from prolonged deprivation of essential nutrients. Malnutrition and starvation are common in the elderly, particularly among those living in nursing homes, where it is estimated that as many as 85 percent of the residents are malnourished, according to a 2006 article in the "Journal of Gerontological Nursing." Older adults are at a higher risk for developing malnutrition for a variety of reasons. Many physical changes occur during aging, such as decreased sense of smell and taste, dental issues, gastrointestinal changes and neurological dysfunction, which can lead to depression and sleep disturbances. These factors can contribute to a loss of appetite and reduced intake of food. In addition, many seniors take medications that affect their nutritional status. Many are also on a fixed income and cannot afford a wide variety of foods.

Symptoms and Treatment

Symptoms of malnourishment include unintentional weight loss, fatigue, anemia, skin breakdown and decreased ability to fight infection and illness. While the appropriate treatment for malnutrition and starvation must address all the root causes, including psychological, social and physiological factors, the ultimate goal is to restore a well-balanced diet with adequate levels of calories and protein.

Macronutrients

The macronutrients that are necessary in the human diet are protein, fat and carbohydrates. Lean body mass, which is primarily muscle, declines 2 to 3 percent each decade, according to a 1970 article in "Metabolism," so the protein requirements are slightly higher for the elderly than for younger adults. For this reason, the elderly are already at a higher risk for protein deficiency. Their diet needs to include two servings of high quality protein per day, such as fish, meat, poultry, soy and dairy products. Fat plays an important role in brain and nerve functioning. Seniors should focus on unsaturated fats such as olive oil and canola oil as these are better than saturated fats for cardiovascular health. Adding fat during meals is also a good way to increase calories and encourage moderate weight gain. Carbohydrates are the main fuel source in the body. Complex carbohydrates such as whole grains contain fiber, which is important for digestive health and can also help regulate blood sugar. Consuming enough fluid is also very important for maintaining electrolyte balance. Many older adults do not consume enough fluids because of lack of access, decreased thirst sensation and fear about incontinence. The elderly should drink 1 to 1.5 liters per day of fluids.

Micronutrients

Vitamins and minerals comprise the micronutrients needed by the human body. Seniors are at risk for many vitamin and mineral deficiencies because of physiological changes and decreased intake. Aging can lead to a decrease in stomach acid production, which can impair absorption of calcium, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12. In addition, many seniors do not regularly consume foods that contain these nutrients -- dairy products, meat and eggs. Many older adults do not spend enough time outside to synthesize vitamin D from sun exposure. Supplemention may be necessary to achieve adequate levels of Vitamin D. Zinc deficiencies can lead to an impaired immune system and delayed wound healing. Good sources of zinc include meat, dairy, beans and grains. Vitamin A is important for bone health, vision and immune system function and is often lacking in the diet of the elderly. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant found in citrus foods, tomatoes and broccoli. Smoking, stress and certain illnesses can increase the amount of vitamin C needed, and supplementation may be required.

Severe Malnutrition

Individuals who are severely malnourished are at risk for refeeding syndrome, which can be fatal. This occurs when the body shifts from breaking down fat during starvation to suddenly receiving carbohydrates that break down quickly into glucose, resulting in high levels of phosphorus, potassium and magnesium. Those at risk for refeeding syndrome must begin taking in nutrients slowly and must be closely monitored by a health professional.