Do your loved ones suffer from a loss of appetite? Unfortunately, this is a very common issue among mature adults. And while there can be many reasons for the loss of their appetite, it still can lead to malnutrition and other health issues. First, check that their loss of appetite is not caused by any serious health conditions, medication side effects, or dental problems. Once you check that it is not caused by any underlying issues, you can focus on these tips to help regain seniors’ appetite. Here is how you can help your family members regain their appetite.
Snack and Eat Regularly
While you might be used to three meals a day, this usually does not work well for those with a poor appetite. Instead, your loved ones should have 5 or 6 smaller meals a day. In fact, the research found that snackers eat more protein, carbohydrates, and fat than non-snackers did. And all these nutrients are important for your loved ones to lead a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Here is a tip. Keep to a regular daily routine for snacks and regular meals. And that means serving food snacks at roughly the same time every day, instead of relying on when they feel hungry. Not only will this prepare them psychologically, but their body will also be used to the routine, and hence will be more ready to eat the food.
Make Mealtime Enjoyable
By making their meal and snack time into an enjoyable experience, they will be more excited and willing to eat. And one great method is to make their meals into a social event. After all, one reason why mature adults suffer from a loss of appetite is loneliness or boredom. Hence, to counter this reason, join your loved ones in their meals.
Alternatively, encourage them to find nearby social food programs that allow them to talk to others over their meals. One other way is to make the meal feel like a special occasion. For instance, set the table, light candles, and put on their favorite music to make it much more enjoyable. Here is a tip. Make their meals colorful and attractive. Because we eat with our eyes first, it is important to make their meals look appetizing. For example, you can use colorful foods like fresh fruits and vegetables. At the same time, they are also high in beneficial nutrients. Did you know that experts found that food from one’s childhood or culture that they grow up in can increase one’s interest in eating? Hence, ask them what is their favorite childhood snack, or comfort food. Fun fact. Laughter can stimulate one’s appetite. Hence, an enjoyable mealtime also encourages them to eat more.
Drink Water Between Meals
While dehydration can suppress appetite, drinking water before or during a meal can also cause your loved ones to feel full, and hence eat less. Instead, encourage them to drink water between their meals as a healthy habit. If they do not like to drink water, try using alternative choices, but equally healthy drinks. Some examples include green tea and adding lemon to their water.
