Orthopedic problems aren’t uncommon in old people. Millions of aging Indians struggle with osteoporosis, dislocations, and fractures. Sadly, a significant part of them remains undiagnosed and untreated.
Did you know an estimated 50 million people in India are affected by osteoporosis?
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There are many factors that plot together to make bone and joint-related problems common for people in their 60s, 70s, and beyond.
One of those “factors” is failing to update the diet.
As one ages, their body needs and requirements change as well. They start requiring more nutrients. Their bones start losing more mass. They grow weaker. A lot of other changes take place as well.
Unfortunately, most of the Indian women and men fail to keep up with these changes. Many of them stay uneducated on the subject, others choose to stay reluctant, overlooking their health beyond a point.
Could Your Parents Be One of Them?
All this while, have they stuck to the same meal plan? Are they still eating the same foods, in the same portion (or less), that they had when they were in the 30s and 40s?
With the progressive needs of the body, our eating habits – as well as overall lifestyle – must progress as well. The nutritional value of the meals must be heeded to thoroughly. The body now requires more vitamin D and calcium to compensate for bone loss. It now wants higher protein intake to maintain bone strength and mass. It wants more magnesium, vitamin C, vitamin B12, and other essential nutrients.
Understanding these needs and then adjusting the diet accordingly is essential. And this is something many Indians overlook.
Help your parent avoid this mistake. Find out more about their overall orthopedic health. Then audit their daily meals. Following, make changes in their diet to accommodate their changing orthopedic needs.
If needed, take them to the best osteoarthritis doctor in Kolkata. There are a few very good orthopedic doctors in Dumdum who specialize in elderly orthopedics. Take your parents to them for a standard checkup. If there indeed is any bone and joint-related problems, early diagnosis can make all the difference in treatment.
In general, the orthopedic doctor can outline them a proper plan to follow so to steer away from the common problems that older people usually go through. They can provide advice on the diet your parents should have and the kind of lifestyle changes they must make.
Help your parents take better care of their orthopedic health. Help them in avoiding a common mistake that many old people make. Update their diet per today’s needs and requirements of their body.