Malnutrition occurs when someone does not get the right amounts of the nutrients they need. Lack of food, eating the wrong food, and problems with food absorption can all lead to malnutrition. Older people are particularly prone to malnutrition which can lead to falls and slow recovery from infection. Too often, malnutrition is a factor in an older person losing their independence.

Research has shown that 40% of older hospital patients and as many as half of those with hip fracture have malnutrition. Around half of older adults do not eat enough protein and more than 55% are deficient in calcium. As many as 90% are deficient in vitamin D and 30% lack zinc, selenium and vitamin B12. To address these specific elements of the malnutrition problem, Nestlé Nutrition has launched Resource® SeniorActiv in the form of a pleasantly-flavored drink. Resource® SeniorActiv is the first oral supplement of its kind. It contains Acti3, which is a unique protein, vitamin D and calcium combination and Prebio1, a proprietary prebiotic fiber to protect digestive health. Resource® SeniorActiv also has B vitamins, for cognitive health, and antioxidant zinc and selenium which will prevent oxidative stress and inflammation. Malnutrition often goes undiagnosed. Nestlé Nutrition has also developed a simple tool called the Revised Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Form (MNA®-SF) which can diagnose malnutrition in less than four minutes. Commenting on the twin track initiatives, Richard Laube, CEO Nestlé Nutrition, said, “These are concrete actions to tackle a substantial healthcare and social issue. The older population is growing faster than any other segment. Older people are generally vulnerable to malnutrition and can slip into a spiral of muscle and weight loss resulting in fatigue and loss of independence. Targeted nutrition can make a big difference and screening for malnutrition is vital to getting a grip on the issue as a whole.

Source

Nestlé Nutrition January 2009 (www.nestlenutrition.com)