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In the early morning, a glass of warm milk steames hot on the table, giving off an enticing aroma.
This is the standard for a nutritious breakfast in many people's minds, but who would have thought that this seemingly healthy habit could hide a hidden danger?
A statement that the elderly should drink less milk and soy milk has sparked heated discussions on the Internet, leaving many people confused.
Could it be that these drinks, which are hailed as "complete foods", are really bad for the elderly?
As we age, our metabolism slows down and our digestive system declines.
This means that older people may not be as well absorbed and metabolized certain foods as they were when they were younger.
In the case of milk, it is indeed rich in many nutrients such as protein and calcium, which play an important role in maintaining bone health.
However, some older people may have lactose intolerance.
According to the Dietary Guidelines for Chinese Residents (2022) released by the Chinese Nutrition Society, about 30% of Chinese adults are lactose intolerant.
For this group of people, excessive consumption of milk may lead to bloating, diarrhea and other uncomfortable symptoms.
On the other hand, soy milk, as a traditional plant-based protein drink, is also rich in a variety of nutrients.
Soy milk contains a certain amount of purine.
The Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Hyperuricemia and Gout in China (2019) remind that high-purine foods may increase the risk of attacks in patients with gout.
Considering that the elderly are more susceptible to metabolic diseases such as gout, it is also necessary to be extra cautious when drinking soy milk.
Should older people give up these drinks altogether?
The answer is no. The key is to mix it properly and drink it in moderation.
Research from the Institute of Nutrition and Health of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention has shown that drinking 300-500 ml of milk and its products in moderation every day can effectively supplement calcium and prevent osteoporosis.
For older people who are lactose intolerant, low-lactose or lactose-free milk can be chosen, or fermented dairy products such as yogurt can be used as an alternative.
As for soy milk, the Dietary Guidelines for Chinese Residents (2022) suggest that it can be included as part of the diet, but it should not be excessive.
Drink 2-300ml 2-3 times a week. At the same time, choosing sugar-free or low-sugar soy milk can better control calorie intake.
In addition to milk and soy milk, there are some foods that the elderly need to pay extra attention to when consuming them.
Foods high in salt may worsen high blood pressure;
Sugar-sweetened beverages may increase the risk of diabetes.
The Medium- and Long-Term Plan for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases in China (2017-2025) emphasizes that a reasonable diet is one of the important measures to prevent chronic diseases.
A scientific concept of food should be based on rigorous research.
According to the Report on Nutrition and Chronic Diseases in China (2020), scientific nutrition literacy is essential to improve national health.
It requires us to make reasonable choices based on the actual situation of the individual from the perspective of overall nutritional balance.
Only in this way can we truly realize the beautiful vision of "eating healthy and living a long life".
A healthy lifestyle is not only reflected on the dinner table, but also needs to be consistent in our daily lives.
Work together to protect the health of the elderly and create a vibrant silver era.