Oral health and nutrition in elderly people

Our oral health influences many aspects of overall health, and nutrition plays a significant role in oral health.

The elderly population is often adversely affected by the dynamics of poor nutrition and poor oral health. Partial or total loss of teeth, gum disease, cavities, dry mouth and mouth ulcers are some of the oral health problems faced by the elderly. These oral-health conditions directly influence the choice of foods these persons prepare. Avoidance of hard- to-chew foods such as fruits, vegetables and other whole foods, results in low micronutrient intake and low fibre intake.

Liquid meals

Some elderly people may become underweight, as they often resort to liquid meals which are most times not adequate in nutrient and calories. Others use convenient foods like juices, which are high in sugars and can further compromise oral health by increasing cavities. Other convenient foods such as high-sodium, easy-to-prepare soups, can worsen chronic conditions such as high blood pressure. The inability to chew properly, resulting in the elimination of variety and complete food groups in the diet, can worsen oral health.

Many micronutrient deficiencies can lead to poor oral health. Iron is important for oral health, as, among other factors, nutrient-rich blood will assist in the integrity of the cells of the oral cavity. Meats and green leafy vegetables are good sources of iron and B vitamins such as folates, which are important in red blood cell health.

Calcium is important to the integrity of the supporting bone structure and teeth and vitamin C to wound healing and the health of cells in the oral cavity. Zinc is important to bolstering the immune system, wound healing and assisting with taste. It is found in large amounts in fibrous animal food such as beef, chicken and fish. Inadequate intake of macronutrients such as proteins can also lead to poor oral health.

Look for swollen gums

Caregivers should be vigilant for signs of poor oral health in elderly people. Look for cavities, swollen gums, ulcers, mouth odour and poor fitting dentures. One sign is the elderly person's refusal to eat some types of food as they are unable to chew them. It is not good enough to just eliminate these foods from the diet. Seek the help of an oral health specialist. To include hard-to-chew foods in the diet, here are some tips:

Fibrous meats - mince and chop them.

Fibrous vegetables - cook then blend/ puree for soups.

Make juices with fruits and vegetables include some fibre if this will be tolerated.

Ensure that these preparations are attractive and tasty.

Keep oral cavity clean

Rosalee M. Brown is a registered dietitian/nutritionist who operates Integrated Nutrition and Health Services; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.