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Lookup NU author(s): Professor Paula Moynihan
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Background. Diet plays a key role in disease prevention in older age. The aims of this report were to review the causes and consequences of a poor diet in later life and its interrelationship with oral health. Conclusions. Energy requirements decrease with age; however, many factors, including poor oral health, loss of appetite and illness, may compromise energy intake. Absorptive capacity may reduce with age; therefore, to prevent deficiencies of micronutrients, a nutrient-dense diet is essential. Clinical Implications. The first signs of micronutrient deficiencies often are manifest in the oral tissues. Consequently, the dentist has an important role in the early diagnosis of malnutrition. Furthermore, optimizing oral health is important in maximizing older patients' functional capacity to consume a healthful and varied diet.
Author(s): Moynihan PJ
Publication type: Article
Publication status: Published
Journal: Journal of the American Dental Association
Year: 2007
Volume: 138
Issue: 4
Pages: 493-497
Print publication date: 01/04/2007
ISSN (print): 0002-8177
ISSN (electronic): 1943-4723
Publisher: American Dental Association
PubMed id: 17403739