A recent study led by Paul O’Toole, Ph.D., of the Alimentary Pharmabioyic Centre at the University College Cork in Ireland shows that gut bacteria may impact long-term care facilities menu planning. The goal of the research was to find out how differences in microbiota, or gut bacteria, affect aging seniors.
178 elderly patients were studied, with about half living inside their own homes or family homes in the community, and half living in nursing homes. The researchers noticed a distinct difference in the diets between the two groups. Those living at home or with family members were given a diverse diet with high levels of fiber and protein. Patients living in nursing homes had less variety, and at more foods along the lines of puddings and mashed potatoes, which are easy to digest.
The elderly living in the private residences had a much more diverse intestinal flora, and were significant healthier than their institutionalized counter parts that had considerably less good bacteria in the gut and tended to be sicker.
The hope of the research team is that long-term care facilities will develop dietary interventions to improve overall, long-term health. The biggest change that needs to be made is a more fiber-rich menu. Fresh fruits and vegetables would be the quickest way to impact the gut by diet.
