Watch for warning signs of poor nutrition

Watch for red flags

There are several warning signs for poor nutrition according to the Chicago-based American Dietetic Association (ADA), says Wehida Karmally, MS, RD, an associate research scientist at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center in New York City and spokeswoman for the ADA. Red flags that could signal poor nutrition among the elderly include:

• an illness or condition that makes the person change the kind or amount of food consumed;

• eats fewer than two meals a day;

• eats few fruits, vegetables, or milk products;

• has tooth or mouth problems that make it difficult to eat;

• not enough money to purchase the food needed;

• eats alone most of the time;

• takes three or more different prescribed or over-the-counter drugs a day;

• not always physically able to shop, cook, or feed oneself;

• lost or gained 10 pounds in the last six months.