(HealthDay is the new name for HealthScoutNews.)
(HealthDayNews) -- As you age, problems that affect your ability to eat may surface. Ill-fitting dentures, constipation, gas, diarrhea or a special diet are all factors that may make eating a bit unpleasant.
The University of Virginia Medical Center suggests ways to deal with these problems:
- Drink seven to eight glasses of water or other fluids per day. This will prevent dehydration and possibly protect against illness.
- Identify the best time of day to eat your biggest meal and then make sure you eat foods full of nutrients.
- Eat with others. You're likely to eat better when a meal is also a social occasion.
- Find ways to make food tastier. Better tasting food sparks the appetite. You can add herbs and spices, maple syrup, bacon bits and butter flavorings.
- Try to eat slowly, sit up straight when you eat, and eat small meals frequently. This will cut down on the amount of gas you have.
- Avoid lying down flat at least one hour after meals. This allows for proper digestion.
- Include softer foods in your diet, such as cottage cheese, yogurt, casseroles made with ground meat or cheese, canned or very soft fruits.
- Have regular dental check-ups.
- If you suffer from dry mouth, relieve the dryness by drinking something between bites of food. Avoid sugary snacks, caffeine drinks, tobacco and alcohol.
