Aging plays a role in our lives as a process that starts from the mother's womb and continues until the end of life. Depending on time, anatomical structure and physiological function changes occur without the presence of disease. Nutritional problems and chronic diseases appear as factors whose effects increase with age. In addition to these, "sarcopenia", which occurs with loss of muscle strength and performance and has increased significantly in recent years, adversely affects the health conditions of the elderly if not prevented.
The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies individuals aged 65 and over as “elderly”. In line with the scientific developments that have emerged in recent years, there are differences in old age. According to the changes in the course of aging and body functions; Ages 65-74 are classified as "late adulthood", ages 75-84 as "old age", and those aged 85 and over are classified as "advanced old age". These age range transitions also affect the nutritional status, causing some changes that can lead to malnutrition. Chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, kidney disease, diabetes, which are more common with age, require special diets for these diseases. In addition, in recent years, "sarcopenia", which occurs especially with old age and causes loss in muscle strength and performance, has increased greatly, while nutrition becomes more important.
The Sabri Ülker Foundation, which brings the most up-to-date information from international reference institutions in the field of healthy living to the attention of the public, lists the precautions to be taken regarding sarcopenia.
Prevent disease by eating right!
Sarcopenia, which occurs with decreased skeletal muscle strength and physical performance, is defined as the loss of muscle mass due to aging. Sarcopenia, which occurs as a result of chronic diseases, low physical activity and malnutrition, causes loss of protein synthesis, muscle destruction and muscle fat content. and balance tests). Exercise and physical activity, nutritional support therapy and hormonal approaches are of great importance in the prevention of sarcopenia. A healthy diet in old age also plays an important role in the prevention of sarcopenia, which affects muscle mass, strength and function.
Consume quality and sufficient protein!
Protein is a nutrient that has very important functions in old age, as it does at any age, and that must be included in a balanced and adequate diet. Healthy and adequate protein consumption is also very effective in preventing sarcopenia. If we look at the positive effects of protein consumption on sarcopenia, as well as other contributions in old age;
- building block of body organs,
- cell regeneration,
- Protection of the body against external influences,
- Strengthening the immune system and developing resistance against diseases,
- Ensuring rapid healing in falls, injuries and fractures,
Protein is necessary for the preservation and strengthening of muscle tissue.
Protein is found in all animal and plant foods. However, foods naturally differ in terms of the amount of protein they contain and the way they are used in the body. Protein obtained from animal foods such as eggs, meat (red meat, fish, chicken and turkey), meat products, milk and its products is described as quality protein.
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