As age increases, the digestive system of the elderly gradually weakens, which is due to the aging of organs. To alleviate digestive problems, you can try the following methods to improve:
1. Avoid eating fruits immediately after meals, as this can increase gastrointestinal burden, leading to indigestion. It is recommended to enjoy fruits two hours after meals.
2. Adjust the eating order, start with the main course first, which helps better secretion of gastric acid, improves digestion efficiency, and quickly produces a feeling of fullness, avoiding overeating.
3. Play relaxing and pleasant music during meals, which not only relaxes the mood but also regulates digestion function by stimulating the central nervous system.
4. Take a walk half an hour after meals and gently massage the abdomen, which can effectively promote gastrointestinal motility, speeding up the digestion process.
5. Try simple bending exercises, do them a few times after each meal for 1-2 minutes, which can help tilt the stomach forward and promote food emptying.
6. Promote saliva secretion through oral exercises, saliva plays an important role in maintaining oral health, sterilization, and aiding digestion. For example, lightly lick the palate with the tongue and move it around, hold the saliva in the mouth first, then swallow it in parts.
Dietary precautions for the elderly:
– Emphasize dietary hygiene, avoid eating unclean food, wash hands before and after meals, and recommend the use of personal utensils. – Chew slowly and thoroughly, especially for elderly people with poor teeth, which can reduce gastrointestinal burden. – Reduce intake of raw, cold, and stimulating foods to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort or worsening existing conditions. – Control intake of fried and pickled foods, as they may contain higher salt content and potential harmful substances. – Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption, as both can damage the digestive mucosa and affect digestion ability. – Increase the proportion of vegetables and whole grains, rich in fiber to aid bowel movement, prevent constipation, and reduce the risk of colon cancer. – Reduce consumption of fried and stir-fried foods, as such foods are hard to digest and can put greater pressure on the digestive system.
In general, the elderly should gradually improve digestive conditions and maintain their health by adjusting their diet and lifestyle.
