As we age, our bodies change and so does our nutritional requirements. With those changes come some myths or misinformation that may be partially true, but not totally true and because of the partial truth, many seniors believe them wholeheartedly. That belief or adherence can be more detrimental than beneficial.

Some of these myths may sound far-fetched, but trust me, they are out there and if seniors didn’t accept them as fact, then we would not be discussing them.

One of the problems is that you can do a little research and find sources that support each one of these and those sources may sound reasonable. Many doctors have different views on senior nutrition. You can even find nutritionists who hold different views on what seniors need, nutritionally.

The information given here is collected from a variety of sources and presented here for your consideration and nothing more. If you have questions, do some research and talk to your doctor or a nutritionist, but know that many will give you differing opinions.

• Seniors require fewer nutrients due to a slower metabolism – It’s true that for most seniors, our metabolism does slow down as we age. Part of this is due to our physical activity decreasing. Part of it is due to the changes that occur internally due to the aging process. However, seniors may not need as many calories but still have a need for a number of nutrients. In fact, many seniors will benefit from increasing the amount of calcium, vitamins D and B12. It’s recommended that you use vitamin D-3. There are 5 forms of vitamin D. Your body uses D-2 and D-3 the most and D-3 (Cholecalciferol) helps the body absorb and assimilate calcium, which is vitally needed for bone health
• Seniors who are not overweight or suffering from diabetes, can consume large amounts of sugar, salt and & fat without any consequences – Don’t be fooled that not being overweight gives you a license to eat anything you want. Normal weight and underweight seniors can still develop heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and other health issues by eating large quantities of sugar, salt and fat.
• Seniors don’t need to be concerned about a loss of appetite – As a senior’s calorie needs may decrease with age, losing one’s appetite on a regular basis should never be ignored. Not only will the senior not get enough vital nutrients, but it may be an indication of health issues, such as thyroid, dental issues and more. If you have a regular loss of appetite, see your doctor.
• Seniors are healthy as long as they continue to eat – This depends on what the senior is eating. If eating a healthy diet, then chances are the senior will be healthier, but just eating does not mean health.
• Seniors are allowed to skips meals since their metabolism is slowing down – WRONG. Generally, when someone skips a meal, they tend to over-eat at the next meal. Even if not diabetic, skipping meals and then over-eating at the next meal will cause blood sugar levels to drop, spike and fall again. A regular pattern of this is not healthy for anyone, not just a diabetic.
• Seniors have to take artificial supplements as they grow old – some supplements and vitamins are beneficial, but many of them are available by eating a healthy diet. Some vitamins, like vitamin C are water soluble, so anything the body doesn’t use is passed out in your urine. Other vitamins are not water soluble and can build up in the body and cause other health problems including diarrhea, constipation and malnutrition. For example, vitamin A is fat soluble so the body stores it up in fat cells. Too much vitamin A causes a condition known as hypervitaminosis A which can affect a person’s vision, bone pain, changes to the skin, liver damage and increased pressure on the brain.
• Seniors can avoid eating if they are suffering from constipation or bloating – This is a very dangerous myth. Constipation or bloating needs to be dealt with. If a constant problem, then they may be signs of a more serious condition and you need to see your doctor. They may be due to what you are eating or drinking but not eating can deprive the body of what it needs to properly function.

Summing it all up, seniors need to make sure that they eat a balanced and healthy diet. Eat regular meals without skipping them if possible. Take vitamins and supplements as needed but don’t over indulge in some, especially vitamins A and K. Pay attention to your body. No one knows what is normal or not normal for you than you do. If you notice changes that concern you or you have questions about what you are experiencing, see your doctor.