Newswise, March 18, 2016– When it comes to aging, the focus is
not just on living longer, quality of life is equally important. According to
the National Institute on Aging, people aged 50 and older need more of some
vitamins and minerals than younger adults do.
In the March issue ofFood Technology magazine
published by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), Linda Mila Ohr wrote
about 8 essential nutritional ingredients that can help aging individuals
maintain an active lifestyle.
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: A recent study showed that fish
oil-derived omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid therapy slowed the normal
decline in muscle mass and function in older adults, and should be considered a
therapeutic approach for preventing sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle
and function, which can help maintain physical independence in older adults.1
Another study showed omega-3 supplementation plus physical and mental training
may help slow cognitive decline in older adults, especially for those who have
mild cognitive impairment.2
2. Antioxidants: Antioxidants help reduce oxidative damage,
which is associated with aging and overall wellness. Important antioxidants
include beta-carotene, selenium, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Antioxidants such as
coenzyme Q10, resveratrol, lutein and zeaxanthin can play a role in more
targeted aging concerns such as heart health and vision.
3. Probiotics: A study showed that daily consumption of a
probiotic by adults aged 65-80 increased beneficial groups of bacteria in the
human gut and potentially increased production of anti-inflammatory cytokines,
which help control the immune system and fight disease.3
4. Prebiotics: A trial of 40 subjects aged 65-80 who received
a certain prebiotic showed that consumption of it produced positive effects on
both their gut microbiota and immune systems.
5. Collagen: Proteins such as collagen peptides are essential
for healthy bones because they promote intestinal calcium absorption and
stimulate bone formation.
6. Proteins: Research shows that consuming a diet higher in
protein has been shown to help maintain muscle as people age.
7. Vitamin D: A study of 1,658 elderly adults demonstrated
that vitamin D deficiency was associated with a substantially increased risk of
all-cause dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
8. Blueberries: Phytochemicals found in fruits such as
blueberries are currently being investigated for their health benefits in
slowing the aging process including memory loss.
About IFT
Founded in 1939, the Institute of Food Technologists is committed to advancing the science of food. Our non-profit scientific society—more than 17,000 members from more than 95 countries—brings together food scientists, technologists and related professionals from academia, government and industry. For more information, please visit ift.org.
Founded in 1939, the Institute of Food Technologists is committed to advancing the science of food. Our non-profit scientific society—more than 17,000 members from more than 95 countries—brings together food scientists, technologists and related professionals from academia, government and industry. For more information, please visit ift.org.
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