What dietary and metabolic factors are associated with poor calcium balance in older people

Question

Nutrition 

Answer 1

What dietary and metabolic factors are associated with poor calcium balance in older people

In the elderly there are many factors influencing nutrient utilization. These include diet, medications and other co-morbidities that may be present. Calcium in particular which depends on other nutrients for absorption, such as Vitamin D, makes achieving adequate balance more difficult.

In general, the elderly tend to eat less and have a reduced appetite. This may be a result of decreased physical activity, a medication side effect or a loss of interest. Metabolism slows with age and the elderly require fewer calories to maintain their weight than when they were younger adults. Tastes change and preference for fresh cooked meals may decrease and be replaced with faster and easier to prepare convenience items. Some older adults can not tolerate lactose and therefore consume fewer dairy products. This can be overcome by consuming lactose-free options which are now commonly available.

Answer 2

Dietary factors can including anything between a low calcium and low vitamin D diet. This can cause Osteopenia or osteoporosis due to the lack of osteoblasts being stimulated in the body.

Exercise is very beneficial due to its stimulation of osteoblasts to create strong and healthy bone cells!