As one of the fastest growing populations in the United States, older adults are leading an increasing demand for protein. Senior living communities that do not offer enough protein can lead to health complications for residents. A recent study found a rise in diabetes and heart disease among older adults that were not getting enough protein in their daily diets. Losing muscle mass from lack of exercise can cause weaker bones and poorer balance, which can lead to falls and fractures at higher rates.
In this article, you will learn how older adults need to eat more protein and why you need to add this nutrient to your menu at your senior living community Rancho Mirage.
1. Protein Is Great for Bones
Seniors are more at risk of fractures due to reduced bone strength and muscle mass. If a senior is not able to eat large amounts of protein, they will not only suffer from frailty but also from weak bones that easily break with the first fall. Elderly people who have had long-term medical conditions such as diabetes and heart disease may already have weakened situations that can cause frailness or fragility.
2. Protein Ensures Good Digestion
The human body uses about 20 percent of every calorie to work on breaking down protein in the stomach. As we age, our bodies rely more on stored fat and carbohydrates stored from the food we consumed in the past days to continue using proteins for fuel. Protein digested well takes a lot more calories than carbs and fats, so older adults need to consume more protein when they eat the other nutrients to help their bodies break it down easily.
3. Protein Provides a Healthy Mind
It is believed that older brains cannot process amino acids in proteins, which are needed to make the neurons. Researchers from Harvard and Washington University found that older adults with higher levels of protein in their diets were better off than those who didn’t have to learn new words faster on memory tests. The researchers found that older people mentally performed better when they ate more than half a cup of protein a day for three weeks, especially if it was accomplished by eating high-quality sources of protein.
4. Protein Can Help Lower Blood Pressure
Eating protein can help lower blood pressure. This can be especially beneficial for those who have been diagnosed with hypertension. Low blood pressure can cause weaker bones and muscles, along with other health issues that can affect your quality of life. Protein builds stronger muscles in the heart and around it, which is great for elderly people with high blood pressure. Researchers are looking into how protein may help lower cholesterol levels in the process too.
5. Protein Can Help in Weight Loss
Eating a higher amount of protein helps keep you full longer than if you eat the same calories from carb or fat sources. This is especially important for those with diabetes and other medical conditions that require managing their weight. Protein also helps you feel full without feeling too heavy, so it works great for those needing to lose weight in order to improve their health.
Conclusion
Older adults need to eat more protein for their bodies to function well. Protein promotes stronger bones, easier digestion, and better circulation. It also helps to burn calories and keep you full despite being an energy source. If your senior who is living in a senior living community in Rancho Mirage needs more protein in your menu planning, look into getting fresh proteins such as fresh fish, poultry, or meat products.
