You Are What You Eat? Gut Health Tied to Frailty

Researchers in Ireland have made a discovery that could impact long-term care facilities' dietary departments. They found that the guts of elderly people who live on their own have more diverse intestinal flora and are healthier than those who live in long-term care facilities.

They were able to tie this disparity to the individuals' diets. The people who lived in LTC facilities ate less varied foods, such as puddings and mashed potatoes. Those who were living independently were more likely to eat a diverse diet with higher levels of fiber and protein.

The researchers anticipate that their findings could mean an increased demand for fiber-rich, fresh foods in institutional settings.

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