General News
20 October, 2022
Health service highlights malnutrition challenges
The Maryborough District Health Service (MDHS) is calling on local residents to tackle malnutrition head-on. After celebrating Malnutrition Week from October 10 to 14, dietitians at the service are now encouraging people to keep a check on their...
The Maryborough District Health Service (MDHS) is calling on local residents to tackle malnutrition head-on.
After celebrating Malnutrition Week from October 10 to 14, dietitians at the service are now encouraging people to keep a check on their nutrition and seek help if required.
A significant public health concern, malnutrition occurs over time when dietary needs are not met, according to MDHS dietitian Emajun Patten.
“Malnutrition can really affect quality of life,” she said.
Studies have shown that 50 percent of older Australians in aged care and 40 percent in the community are at risk of being malnourished.
“This can be due to a variety of reasons, including some dental problems, medications, social isolation, psychological distress, dementia and financial difficulties,” Ms Patten said.
“Other people at risk include people with gastrointestinal symptoms, eating disorders, or illnesses like cancer or kidney failure, where an increase in nutrients is needed.”
Unexpected weight loss, lack of appetite and fatigue are some common signs of the condition.
MDHS is urging people with these signs to make an appointment with a dietitian — as early intervention can prevent the need for major treatments.
“MDHS employs dietitians to help combat malnutrition and run education programs in the community,” Ms Patten said.
“We can offer personalised, practical, and easy-to-follow dietary advice to help people improve their health through improved eating.
“We also help patients and out-patients at Maryborough Hospital, and at our residential aged care facilities in Maryborough, Avoca and Dunolly.”
While malnutrition can lead to poor medical outcomes, you can get ahead of it by eating small and frequent meals through the day; adding oil, cream, margarine and grated cheese to recipes; and eating snacks such as cheese and crackers, yoghurt, peanut butter or cheese-based dips on toast, nuts and dried fruit.
For more information visit the MDHS website at mdhs.vic.gov.au.