Unfortunately, as we age, our body’s nutritional needs change. We are not as tolerant of sugars, salt, and junk food as we were when younger. We need fewer calories, because we use fewer calories; and we need more fiber, vitamins and minerals in order to maintain a healthier life for a longer time. However, aging creeps up on us so slowly that we don’t always recognize the deficiency until its too late and we get really ill. On order to avoid that, let’s look at some of the signs of bad nutrition and how to fix it quickly.
- Fatigue … The most common symptom among seniors and people from 45 on up. Lack of energy can be a sign of low iron (especially among women). Iron is what our red blood cells use to carry oxygen to all parts of the body. Low levels = low energy.
Decreased protein can also cause fatigue, although most Americans eat too much of the wrong protein too little can cause fatigue. This is many time the case when eating too much junk food and carbohydrates.
- Mood and Mental Health … Bad diet can yield poor thinking and memory, depression, anxiety, even disorientation. This is true of children and adults alike. Usually due to a lack of specific essential minerals getting to the brain, called an “electrolyte imbalance” our brains simply cannot function properly without the right minerals present to conduct the electrical impulses. Protein deficiencies also create slower brain functions. Usually from an excess of carbohydrates in the diet as opposed to good clean sources of meat and fish protein.
- Weak Immune System … the most important nutrients for a strong immune system are vitamins A, C, and E, protein and zinc. These all boost the white blood cells of the immune system to fight off diseases.
- Bruising … Is usually a sign of a lack of Vitamin C or K or protein, the ingredients needed to heal wounds.
- Dental Problems … Your entire digestive system can affect your whole-body health, and it starts in the mouth. Not enough Vitamin C can cause gum disease, bleeding, pain and even loose teeth which may require dentures. Mouth pain decreases the ability to eat healthier fiber rich foods and proteins and can lead to further damage mal-nutrition and disease.
- Dry and/or Brittle Hair and Skin … and is a strong indicator of poor nutrition and a lack of enough vitamins and minerals. Brittle hair can lead to hair loss.
- Diarrhea … Can be caused by a lack of zinc which can upset the balance of bacteria in your gut leading to diarrhea. Among other things, Zink is an electrolyte that also helps the bowel take in more water.
- Constipation … the opposite of the above is usually due to a lack of fiber in the system and can usually be remedied by eating more fruits and vegetables, whole grains and nuts.
Ridged or spoon shaped nails … Like the skin and hair, nails are subject to poor or mal-nutrition. If they have ridges, or are spoon-shaped it is usually due to low iron, protein, calcium, or Vit, A, B-6, C or D.
