When
people reach the age of 60 years and above, their sense of taste and smell
generally weaken, affecting their food intake.
Older
persons tend to eat less because their weak senses depreciate the appeal of
food, thereby resulting in malnutrition.
Prompt
intervention can prevent older persons from having poor nutrition, because at
this stage they are very susceptible to illnesses.
A
study by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science
and Technology (FNRI-DOST) determined the effect of flavor enhancers on the
dietary intake of older persons.
Sixty
seven (67) persons aged 60 years old and above joined the study. Before the
start and during the study, 24-hour food intake, anthropometric and clinical
data were obtained from the subjects.
One
group was given 0.5 grams flavor enhancer while the other group was given 0.5
grams iodized salt. These were added to lunch and supper of the subjects
for two months. The subjects tolerated the addition of flavor enhancer and
iodized salt.
The
study revealed that both interventions increased the energy and all the
nutrient intake of the subjects. In addition, body weight and body mass index
(BMI) also increased significantly with flavor enhancer use, but not with
iodized salt.
The
blood pressure was also normal for both interventions. Furthermore, sodium in
the blood of the subjects was also within the normal levels.
Thus,
adding 0.5 grams of flavor enhancer and iodized salt to the food of the older
persons did not have a significant effect on their blood pressure and serum
sodium levels.
This
study is a scientific proof that addition of said flavor enhancers will not increase
the blood pressure of older persons as long as these are used in moderation.
Addition
of flavor enhancers may also be a good strategy in increasing the food intake
of older persons to increase appetite and improve nutritional status.
For more information on food and
nutrition, contact: Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, Food and Nutrition
Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology, General Santos
Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City. E-mail: MVC@fnri.dost.gov.ph, Telefax: 837-2934 and 827-3164, or call: 8372071 local 2296
or visit our website: http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph.
(FNRI-DOST S & T Media Service:
Press Release – CELINA ANN Z. JAVIER)
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