The relationship between nutrition and systematic and oral well-being in older people

Background. Diet plays a key role in disease prevention in older age. The aims of this report were to review the causes and consequences of a poor diet in later life and its interrelationship with oral health. Conclusions. Energy requirements decrease with age; however, many factors, including poor oral health, loss of appetite and illness, may compromise energy intake. Absorptive capacity may reduce with age; therefore to prevent deficiencies of micronutrients, a nutrient-dense diet is essential. Clinical Implications. The first signs of micronutrient deficiencies often are manifested in the oral tissues. Consequently, the dentist has an important role in the early diagnosis of malnutrition. Furthermore, optimizing oral health is important in maximising older patients' functional capacity to consume a healthful and varied diet.