Is Gluten-Free the Best Option for the Elderly?

You may have heard the saying, “You are what you eat.” And it’s true even for seniors. If you eat tons of processed foods and tons of sugar you are going to feel it over time and you risk some serious negative health effects. However, cutting things out of your diet may or may not be the best option for you. For anyone, even the elderly, you should always talk to your primary care doctor before making any drastic lifestyle changes. That being said, things like gluten may be playing a role in how a senior is feeling. Many people are developing gluten allergies, and they may need to cut it out of their diets. Here are a few reasons why so many people, including seniors, are choosing to skip gluten.

There is Less of a Risk of Having Nutritional Deficiencies

Believe it or not, when you eat gluten it can prevent and block your body from absorbing certain vitamins and minerals which can lead to deficiencies. Many seniors are finding that by cutting back on gluten, other vitamin levels are becoming higher and they are suffering from fewer deficiencies. The best way to figure out what a person is deficient in is by going to the doctor and getting blood work done. A senior can try cutting back on gluten and seeing if those levels improve. When you cut out gluten, it can help your body absorb more nutrients, which is crucial for aging in place. The healthier and happier a senior is, the more likely they will be able to remain in their home for much longer. If they need help sticking to a diet or a routine that includes regular eating times, it’s time to look into hiring full or part-time home care to help them. These caregivers can also help seniors read ingredients, so they stay away from gluten products.

Cutting Out Gluten May Help Reduce Inflammation

One of the best ways to battle inflammation is by eliminating gluten in the diet. Things like wheat, rye, and barley are known triggers for inflammation, so if your loved one is already battling chronic inflammation, they may benefit from cutting out those foods with gluten. Having too much inflammation can be painful, and when it’s chronic, it can lead to other ailments that are much more complex and challenging to cure. If you notice or if home care notices that a senior is complaining about inflammation, it may be time to encourage your loved one to go gluten-free. If their bodies feel better after eating gluten-free for a month, it may be best to stay away from it forever.

May Help With Gastrointestinal Support

Some seniors may have Celiac disease, which means that when someone eats gluten, their small intestine becomes damaged every time they eat gluten. The gluten protein can be super hard to digest, and as a senior becomes older, their body starts slowing down, making it twice as hard to digest. Not all seniors have Celiac disease, but it is more prevalent in older adults, and it is something to watch out for while aging in place.

If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care in Bridgehampton, NY, call the caring staff at Artful Home Care today at (631) 685-5001