Aging affects the inside of our body just as much as it affects the outside, and seniors often face digestive challenges that can affect their overall health and lifestyle. While traditional medication offers relief, there’s growing interest in natural solutions for enhancing digestive health. Probiotics might be a pathway for Florida seniors aiming to improve their gut health without relying on prescriptions.
Changes To Digestive Health in Seniors
One of the most noticeable changes in the human body over time is a reduction in stomach acid production. This makes it harder for our bodies to break down food, extract vitamins and nutrients, and eventually flush out waste. Paired with a slower digestive tract, seniors often have increased instances of gastrointestinal issues. Constipation is one of the most frequent complaints, with medication side effects boosting the prevalence in the senior population. Gastroesophageal reflux disease also becomes more prevalent, with symptoms like heartburn and acid reflux affecting comfort and appetite. Irritable bowel syndrome is relatively common in senior and younger populations, but seniors may have other health conditions that put them at higher risk.
What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are collections of living bacteria and yeasts beneficial to digestive health, sometimes called “good” or “friendly” bacteria. They contribute to the balance of gut flora—the community of microorganisms living in the intestine—that helps the body eat food more efficiently and absorb nutrients better. A healthy gut can reduce gas and bloating by harboring good bacteria that aid in breaking down indigestible plant fibers and other things we eat that our stomach acid can’t deal with.
Probiotics can also strengthen the immune system by combating harmful bacteria that cause infections and inflammation. By competing against these harmful bacteria, they limit their ability to spread dangerous gut and intestinal through bacterial growth. For seniors, this means fewer digestive issues and a general boost in health. Probiotics aren’t some rare superfood; they are found in fermented foods you can pick up at the grocery store, like yogurt, kefir, fermented meats, and supplements.
Incorporating Probiotics into a Senior Diet
Want to add more probiotics to your daily routine? Luckily, it isn’t hard, and a few simple choices can make a world of difference. Upping your levels of probiotic intake isn’t likely to cause serious health concerns, but it is still wise to consult with a doctor or healthcare worker before making any drastic changes to your diet. Medications like antibacterials may limit the effectiveness of probiotics or cause harm to the body.
To ease into it, start with mild portions of probiotic-rich foods like yogurt with live cultures, kefir, and fermented vegetables for a probiotic boost. For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, high-quality probiotic supplements can be an effective alternative when taken in proper dosages. Consistency is key to experiencing all the benefits of probiotics, so incorporating them into a daily routine is the best way to support your long-term digestive health.
Making healthy choices is easier when surrounded by a community of like-minded people looking out for your best interests. At an assisted living facility, staff assist residents as needed and allow them to live fulfilling and independent lives together with other seniors. Our facility can provide healthcare assistance to help ensure that any dietary changes you make will not negatively affect your health, whether through checkups or transportation assistance to doctors.
If you or your loved one are looking for a community that prioritizes health and wellness, we invite you to contact A Banyan Residence to learn more and schedule a visit to our facility.
