Researchers in a recent U.S. study concluded that 76% of hospitalized patients over the age of 65 were at risk for pressure ulcers because they were malnourished because they were not eating and drinking the right things. It is essential to help the skin be stronger and to do that, we have to focus on what we eat and drink, especially those foods and drinks that contain “protein”. Protein is essential for healing and preventing pressure ulcers. One study showed that oral nutritional supplements with high level of protein and calories were associated with a significant reduction in pressure ulcer development compared to routine meals.
It is also important to keep your skin moisturized on the outside as well as the inside. How often do you think about hydration working from the inside out? Probably not very often. So what can you do to keep your skin moist from the inside out? Here are a few steps you can do:
- The first one is obvious . . . drink plenty of water. Water hydrates the skin. Teas, coffees and other type of drinks can have a diuretic effect and take fluids out of the body thus dehydrating the skin.
- Second, remember protein is a critical building block for healthy skin. Eat foods that are high in protein such as fish, chicken, lean beef, pork loin, yogurt, soymilk, beans, eggs, nuts, etc. It is so important that you take in protein on a daily basis.
- Third, look at taking supplements to assure that you are taking adequate protein. Less is more so try to find ones that are easy to swallow. However, consult with your physician before starting a protein supplement product.
In conclusion, eating and drinking really can save your skin. It just has to be the right types of eating and drinking.
Contact us today to learn how South Coast Post Acute can help!