Older people have a tendency to become dehydrated, but any older adult who has heart issues, diabetes, kidney disease, or obesity would benefit from drinking water or broth. An occasional bottle of Gatorade is fine, but it contains salt and sugar, both of which can be unhealthy for the cardiovascular system.
Pedialyte. One of the best drinks for the elderly, Pedialyte is an advanced, medical-grade hydration formula. It contains electrolytes, namely potassium, sodium, and chloride to restore the electrolyte balance and prevent dehydration.
Preventing dehydration and overhydration in the elderly is essential, as both can cause serious health issues. The magic formula to avoiding both entails drinking to thirst and consuming adequate electrolytes through healthy foods and electrolyte drinks.
Low-fat milk, almond milk and soymilk offer substantial amounts of calcium, protein and other nutrients good for bone and muscle health, which is extremely important for older adults. If you're looking for a lower-calorie drink, unsweetened almond milk can have as few as 30 calories in eight ounces.
To prevent dehydration, you should drink water throughout the day. Water is best, but other drinks can also be helpful like milk, flavored sparkling water, and low-sugar fruit juices. Even frequent small sips are helpful if you cannot drink a full glass at a time.
Is Gatorade OK for Seniors? Gatorade and other sports drinks shouldn't be your constant choice since they are high in sugar. However, they also possess electrolytes to replenish your body. Taking a few sips of Gatorade or a commercial rehydration solution can help restore those critical electrolytes more swiftly.
How to prevent dehydration in older adults? Experts generally recommend that older adults consume at least 1.7 liters of fluid per 24 hours. This corresponds to 57.5 fluid ounces, or 7.1 cups.
Sports drinks can be dangerous, however, for seniors with certain types of medical conditions, such as diabetes. Check with the doctor for guidance. In most cases, plain water is the best source of hydration. Myth: Everyone needs eight cups of water each day.
You should aim for 6 to 8 glasses of fluid a day. Here are some simple tips for making sure you reach your goal and get enough water. Sip on drinks throughout the day. Get a reusable water bottle with a straw and fill it with plain water.
To prevent and relieve dehydration, seniors may consume an oral rehydration solution (Hydralyte). Hydralyte is scientifically formulated to contain the correct balance of glucose and electrolytes for rapid rehydration.
The main difference between Pedialyte and Gatorade is their nutritional content. Broadly speaking: Pedialyte contains more electrolytes, which is beneficial when vomiting or diarrhea causes the rapid depletion of these minerals.
Replenish and Rehydrate
They found that milk may be more effective than water or sports drinks at restoring and maintaining normal hydration status after exercise, likely due to milk's electrolyte content and energy density.
Risks of drinking too much Gatorade
Typically, serious athletes and people involved in long, strenuous activities can handle the added sugar, as they will burn it off, during their normal routines. Extra sugar is more likely to cause health complications in people who exercise less often or only for an hour or less.
The actual amount of added sugars in each drink are comparable, though Gatorade contains slightly more calories and sodium. Powerade boasts more micronutrients than Gatorade, with magnesium, niacin, and vitamins in each serving.
Eat Foods High in Protein
Instead, go on a high-protein diet, with plenty of lean meats or quinoa. Many vegetables also are high in protein! Boost your energy and protein levels with boiled eggs, which also give you Vitamin D. A diet low in fat and high in protein does wonders for seniors!
Causes of refusal to eat and drink may include physiologic changes associated with aging, mental disorders including dementia and depression, medical, social, and environmental factors.
If the person you are caring for is showing early signs of dehydration, offer them a bottle of water, Gatorade, Powerade or coconut water to replenish their electrolytes quickly. Know their medications. Some medications (like diuretics) can cause an elderly person to become dehydrated even faster than normal.
The answer is yes, coffee does count toward your daily water intake. However, drinking huge amounts of caffeine can be dehydrating. That's because it may increase urination that can result in a higher risk of dehydration. While coffee is hydrating, it lacks electrolytes our body needs for complete hydration.
Dehydration is a potentially serious condition that can occur when you don't consume enough fluids for your body's needs. This can lead to health complications ranging from mild to life-threatening, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), heat stroke, heart problems, kidney failure, and blood clot complications.