Longevity with Michale DelGiorno

This week I had my regularly schedule phone-in with syndicated radio host Michael DelGiorno. We discussed nutritional strategies for health as we age.LONGEVITY AND NUTRITION: 7-NUTRIENTS TO PAY ATTENTION TO AS YOU AGE. DR. JOE GALATI EXPLAINS…1. CalciumWhy it’s needed: Keeps bones and teeth strong, helps muscles contract, and assists neurotransmitter release. As you age, the body leaches calcium from bones if you don't consume enough.Best Sources: Dairy (yogurt, cheese, milk), canned salmon/sardines with bones, kale, chia seeds, and fortified plant milks.2. Vitamin DWhy it’s needed: Promotes calcium absorption and supports immune and brain health. Seniors often spend more time indoors and their skin becomes less efficient at producing Vitamin D from sunlight.Best Sources: Fatty fish (salmon, trout), egg yolks, and fortified foods like orange juice and cereals.3. Vitamin B6Why it’s needed: Vital for metabolism and brain health. Older bodies break down B6 more quickly and absorb it less efficiently.Best Sources: Chickpeas (one cup provides over half the daily goal), chicken breast, bananas, and potatoes.4. Vitamin B12Why it’s needed: Essential for the nervous system and red blood cell production. Roughly 10-30% of seniors have trouble absorbing B12 from food, often due to lower stomach acid or medications (like Metformin).Best Sources: Beef, seafood, and eggs. Experts recommend seniors get at least half their B12 from fortified foods (like nutritional yeast or cereals) because they are easier to absorb.5. ProteinWhy it’s needed: To blunt sarcopenia(the gradual loss of muscle mass and strength). Nearly one-third of seniors do not eat enough protein.Requirements: Aim for 0.45 to 0.54 grams per pound of body weight (approx. 68–81g for a 150lb person).Best Sources: Greek yogurt, eggs, beans, tofu, and lean meats.6. FiberWhy it’s needed: To prevent constipation and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. Most seniors fall well short of the recommended intake.Requirements: Men (51+) need 30g; Women (51+) need 21g daily.Best Sources: Lentils, whole grains, berries, and leafy greens.7. Total Calories (Energy Intake)Why it’s needed: Appetite often declines with age, leading to unintended weight loss and weakness.The Approach: If appetite is low, focus on nutrient-dense, high-calorie foods rather than large volumes of food.Best Strategy: Use healthy fats like olive oil, avocados, peanut butter, and full-fat dairy, or drink smoothies with protein powder to ensure energy needs are met.How To Reach Dr. Joe Galati and his Team:For an on-line consultation or press inquiries, contact Teresa Reyes at 713-794-0700Dr. Galati's Newsletter Sign-UpLiver Specialists of TexasGet a Copy of Dr. Galati's BookDr. Galati on FacebookMessage Dr. Galati and his team Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.