Adequate protein in the diet, walking and healthy sleep reduce the risk of colds in the elderly. In this respect “Moscow 24” said Nadezhda Runikhina, chief geriatrician of the Moscow Ministry of Health.
The geriatrician explained that the elderly should avoid any acute infection as much as possible as it can worsen their health and lead to senile asthenia (weakness).
“It is recommended to use personal protective equipment and avoid contact with sick people. Regarding acute respiratory infections, it is recommended that the elderly be vaccinated in time against influenza, pneumococcal infection and others,” said Runikhina.
As we age, the effectiveness of the immune system naturally decreases. This is also typical for people whose blood tests are normal. Lymphocyte and neutrophil levels may be normal, but their activities are impaired. This causes increased inflammation. These effects can be reduced with good nutrition, adequate sleep, stress management and regular physical activity.
Important components of the diet are protein, fiber and complex carbohydrates. It is important to eat meat to avoid iron deficiency anemia, which is common in the elderly.
“It’s better to focus on protein from dairy and plant-based foods. You can eat legumes such as beans or soybeans. Fish and chicken are suitable as animal proteins, but in no case fatty meat. Eating fiber-rich fruits and vegetables every day supports intestinal health. Its microflora plays a role not only in digestion, but also in maintaining the immune status of an elderly person,” explained Runikhina.
previous doctors named Symptoms of a dangerous VEXAS disease that affects people over 50 years of age.