There’s an ongoing debate over whether genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are ultimately a good thing. GMOs are living organisms that have had their genetic makeup engineered to make foods more resistant to herbicides. While that sounds positive, there are some potential risks. Here’s how GMOs could impact senior health.
Food Allergies
The Organic Consumers Association notes that the list of common genetically modified (GM) foods also includes common food allergens. Late-onset food allergies affect anywhere from 5 to 10 percent of all seniors, presenting a potential risk from added exposure to certain allergens.
It can be challenging to closely monitor a senior’s diet to ensure he or she doesn’t eat foods that can be harmful. Whether you need respite from your caregiving duties or your aging loved one needs live-in care, Portland, ME, Align Home Care can meet your family’s care needs. Our dedicated caregivers are available around the clock to provide transportation to doctor’s appointments, ensure seniors take their prescribed medications, and help with a variety of tasks in and outside the home.
Potential Toxicity
A review of nearly two dozen studies notes that animals fed GM foods may accumulate toxic levels of some nutrients, especially in the kidneys and liver. This toxicity may transfer to seniors eating significant amounts of GM foods.
If your loved one needs help planning and preparing healthy meals, a home caregiver can be a fantastic resource. Elderly home care providers can benefit aging adults in a variety of ways. From cooking nutritious meals to offering timely medication reminders, the dedicated caregivers at Align Home Care are available to help your elderly loved one 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Gluten Disorders
A report by the Institute for Responsible Technology noted enhanced recovery from gluten-related disorders when GM foods were removed from individual diets, suggesting a possible link with GMOs. Instances of gluten sensitivity in seniors often go unreported, which could lead to added dietary exposure for susceptible seniors.
What Seniors Can Do
According to a Consumer Reports National Research Center survey, more than 70 percent of Americans don’t want genetically modified organisms in the foods they eat. For seniors and their caregivers who are concerned about the potential health risks of GMOs, sticking with organic or unmodified foods will provide access to an assortment of beneficial nutrients.
A 2012 study linked genetically modified corn to cancer in lab animals, but there was some controversy over the results and the motivations behind the research. The World Health Organization says consuming foods with GMOs poses no greater risk than what’s available from traditional crop plants, although there’s a lack of research on how mixing genes from different species impacts human health over the long term.
If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Align Home Care, a trusted provider of Portland senior care. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping. Call us today to discuss how we can give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing your loved one is being cared for with professionalism and compassion.