Protein Intake and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in the Elderly Resident

Can there be too much protein?

It has long been recognized that adequate protein intake is needed throughout the life cycle and a necessary nutrient in tissue building and repair. For residents in…

Liberalized Renal Diets in Long-Term Care FacilitiesThe American Dietetic Association recommends that long-term care facilities liberalize therapeutic diets to maximize meal intake of residents who are at nutritional risk. In many cases a regular diet improves meal intake, minimizes struggles over dietary compliance, and improves a patient’s quality of life. …

Salmonella Outbreak in Peanut ButterRecently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommended that products containing peanut butter be eliminated from consumer’s diets until further information becomes available. At least 474 people in 43 states have been sickened by peanut butter and peanut paste,…

Nutrition Services for the Healthcare Industry of the Future

The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has recently released the newly revised nutrition and sanitation regulations and investigative guidelines to surveyors. Slated to become effective September 1, 2008, the intent of F 325 ( previously F…

The media often promotes “sea salt” as a healthy alternative to regular table salt. We see commercials for natural cut french fries with “sea salt.” The truth is the sodium content is about the same in both types of salt. Both contain the two minerals sodium and chloride. The main…

Well we've made it through the busy holiday season and spring has sprung! This is the perfect time to take advantage of all the healthy benefits spring provides us. Not only does this time of year inspire us to get outside and be active, but it also brings us a…

You Are What You EatThe old adage, though many would like to believe otherwise, is very true… we are what we eat.   One of the main reasons people become overweight or obese is overeating.  And for those who eat out frequently, portion size can be a detriment contributing to…

Prepare for the Baby Boomer Generation!

A new group of health care consumers has begun to utilize the services of long term care. These are the Baby Boomers who total approximately 78 million, born between 1946 and 1964. These men and women, some of whom have reached…

Alternate Forms of Hydration in the Summer MonthsIn these hot summer months, the body is begging for liquids.  But instead of reaching for a glass of water, why not eat a slice of watermelon?   A suitable daily allowance for water in adults is 2.5 liters per day, or approximately 2.5…

Unintentional weight loss has been a prevalent concern among the elderly population in long term care. Residents who are experiencing unplanned weight loss may be at high risk for developing pressure sores, infections, muscle wasting, malnutrition, and increased health complications including death. For this reason, the facility heath care team…