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Seniors and Asthma
Nutrition:
An Important Aspect in Senior Asthma Care Many seniors with asthma require regular medications to breathe comfortably through the day. However, also important in the treatment of asthma is good nutrition--especially for the senior patient. An important part of current asthma treatment is corticosteroids, usually in the inhaled form. The effective dose for oral corticosteroids is higher for people over age 40. However, this necessary medication, given orally and also in high doses of the inhaled form, can increase a person’s risk of developing a bone condition called osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is when a person’s bones have lost density and as a result are prone to fractures. Both men and women are at risk for developing osteoporosis, especially as they age. Several factors can increase the likelihood that a person will develop osteoporosis, including family history, race, inadequate calcium and vitamin D intake, lack of physical activity, cigarette smoking, excessive drinking of alcohol, low body weight, and some medications, including corticosteroids. Consuming calcium Therefore, it is very important for seniors to make certain that their calcium consumption is adequate. The obvious solution would be to eat and drink more dairy products. However, some individuals may be allergic to dairy products, and many seniors are lactose intolerant, meaning that they lack an enzyme, called lactase, required to digest the milk sugar lactose. People who are lactose intolerant may still be able to eat yogurt or hard cheeses, as well as acidophilus milk or other milk products to which lactase has been added. Many other foods also contain calcium, including tofu, broccoli, collards, turnip greens, raisins and sardines with bones. Calcium supplements are also recommended, but should be used with caution initially, as they can interfere with other medications and can cause abdominal side effects. Supplements containing oyster shell, bone meals or dolomite should be avoided, as they may contain lead or other toxic materials. It's important to discuss any supplement use with a physician. Increasing fluidsIncreased fluid consumption is another important dietary measure for it can help reduce asthma symptoms by thinning the mucus in the lungs. However, due to other medical problems, many seniors consciously reduce their fluid intake. One easy solution to the problems of increasing both fluid intake and calcium (as well as protein) is to drink lots of milk. Another is to drink mineral water with a high calcium content. (Vittel and Swiss Deliss are two examples.) These mineral waters can also be used for cooking without losing their benefit. Also remember that vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption (800 IU/day), and weight-bearing exercise is vital to retain strong bones. While good nutrition is important at any age, older patients with asthma should pay particular attention to their dietary needs. They should also work closely with their physicians to plan and monitor their asthma treatment as well as their diet. This will help to ensure they are getting the nutritional benefits required for their overall health. Copyright 2000, Asthma Magazine. Reprinted by permission. |
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© 1996-2008 · All Rights Reserved · American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology |
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