Journal of Nutrition & Food Sciences
Open Access
ISSN: 2155-9600
ISSN: 2155-9600
Deborah Ellen Wildish
University Health Network, Canada
Posters-Accepted Abstracts: J Nutr Food Sci
Falls are associated with significant morbidity, mortality and health costs. Internationally, falls are a major public health issue and the incidence of falls is growing with aging populations. Therefore, falls prevention strategies are high priority for many countries. A multi-factorial approach to falls and fracture prevention cites inadequate or poor nutrition as a risk factor. But is it simply a matter of consuming a balanced diet? Calcium and especially vitamin D have taken center stage for nutritional strategies in international osteoporosis guidelines. However, what roles do other nutrients play? Muscles support bone function and health, what nutritional support is required to preserve muscle mass, strength and function? These questions will be addressed within a comprehensive approach to nutritional intervention for falls and fracture prevention. The literature suggests that patients 65 years and older may have higher nutrient requirements to maintain muscle mass and reduce the risk for sarcopenia as well as support bone health and reduce the risk for osteoporosis and other bone diseases. Many factors impact nutrient requirements such as hormonal changes, altered metabolism with aging and interactions with medications to control chronic disease. A comprehensive approach to clinical nutrition strategies includes determining an individual��?s healthy weight and elucidating requirements for protein and fluid intake; vitamins A and K and key minerals such as magnesium and zinc. Finally, the complementary role of nutrition and exercise is not wellarticulated in public health education. Participants will be challenged to capitalize upon inter-professional partnerships and create novel approaches to public health education.
Email: Deborah.Wildish@uhn.ca