Health Tips for November 14

Health Tip: Signs That You Might Be Malnourished

You know that it's important to eat a healthy, balanced diet with all the nutrients that your body needs. A poor diet lacking in essential vitamins and minerals can lead to serious health problems. Here are warning signs of serious malnutrition that warrant a visit with your doctor and prompt treatment: Losing consciousness or fainting. Lack of menstrual periods in pre-menopausal women. Stunted growth in children. Sudden loss of hair. Health Tip: Dietary Needs of Aging Women As women age, their dietary needs change. A healthy diet is always important, but even more so as women get older. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggests women should consume: At least 1,500 milligrams daily of calcium, which may be found in dairy products and leafy green vegetables, or dietary supplements. Eight milligrams of daily iron -- needed to help produce red blood cells. Healthy sources of iron include fortified breakfast cereals, spinach and beans. Limited intake of saturated and trans fats. Limited intake of salt (sodium) and added sugars. Plenty of fiber.