Sodium is a chemical element with the symbol Na. Sodium occurs naturally in most foods and is found as a compound of which sodium chloride or table salt is the most common. Sodium is also added to many food products. Some of these added forms are monosodium glutamate (MSG), sodium nitrite, sodium saccharin, baking soda … [ Read More ]
Weight Changes and Nutritional Challenges in the Elderly
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As we age it is normal for our appetites to become decreased. Aging results in a decrease in physical activity and metabolic rate. However, residents in long term care facilities who continue to lose weight can be at a higher mortality rate. According to the Annals of Long-Term Care; physiologic, pathologic, psychologic, and sociologic factors … [ Read More ]
Thawing Food Properly and Safely
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Developing a preparation and thaw guide for production staff provides guidance to ensure a food product is pulled in advance to thaw under refrigeration. Product density will determine the length of time required to completely thaw. Individual meat patties, chicken pieces, ground meat, fish, and liquid eggs thaw in one to two days while meat … [ Read More ]
Ethical Considerations of Nutrition Support
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Meeting estimated nutritional needs and providing adequate nutrition and hydration for all residents can, at times, be a difficult challenge not only for the resident but also for the interdisciplinary team. Ethical considerations of starting and stopping artificial nutrition must be considered in the best interest of the resident. Despite the evidence outlining indications for … [ Read More ]
National Heart Awareness Month is in February
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February is when we celebrate National Heart Awareness Month which helps raise awareness of heart disease. According to the Center for Disease Control, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States killing more than 600,000 Americans each year. The most common type of heart disease is coronary heart disease, which often … [ Read More ]
Kidney Disease and Diet Restrictions
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When a renal diet is ordered, just what does this mean? In long term care, the restrictions are liberalized. It is first important to find out if the resident is receiving dialysis or not. The renal diet may be interpreted as general with no added salt and possibly low potassium. A low potassium diet generally … [ Read More ]
Fortifying and Enhancing Foods
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In long term care, we are often working with elderly residents who unfortunately feel like eating is a chore. It is quite common for an elderly person to have a decreased or poor appetite as they age. But nursing homes must be creative in offering foods to their residents who have diminished food intake. Some … [ Read More ]
Accurate Weight Measurements
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Accuracy with weight measurements is essential for residents in the long-term care setting. Weight measurement is used to calculate energy, protein and fluid needs. It is used as an indicator of nutritional and health status and changes in weight can often indicate other medical changes. Inaccurate weight measurements can result in an increased number of … [ Read More ]
When supplements should be considered for a resident
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Knowing when to order supplements and when to refrain can be a challenge. Supplements may be a helpful intervention for inadequate intake and weight loss, but can also be costly, ineffective, and potentially harmful if used improperly. Keep the following guidelines in mind when considering the use of a supplement. When to Order: According to … [ Read More ]
Thawing Food Properly and Safely
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Developing a preparation and thaw guide for production staff provides guidance to ensure a food product is pulled in advance to thaw under refrigeration. Product density will determine the length of time required to completely thaw. Individual meat patties, chicken pieces, ground meat, fish, and liquid eggs thaw in one to two days while meat … [ Read More ]