The impact of self-perceived masticatory function on nutrition and gastrointestinal complaints in the elderly.
OBJECTIVE
Impaired masticatory function is generally considered to be a contributing factor in the development of malnutrition (1, 2). Furthermore, the exclusion of essential and high-fibre foods from the subjects' diets, due to chewing problems, may induce gastrointestinal disorders (3-5).


OBJECTIVE
The impact of masticatory function on malnutrition and gastrointestinal symptoms was evaluated.


METHODS
This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in four nursing homes in Berlin, Germany. 119 residents (mean 86, ± 8.0 years, 62-102) took part in the study.


METHODS
Dental status, denture quality, prosthetic condition as well as masticatory ability and gastrointestinal symptoms were evaluated by clinical examination or interview. Nutritional state was determined according to Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA).


RESULTS
The mean Body Mass Index was 24.4, ±4.9 kg/m² (17% < 20 kg/m²). The mean MNA was 22.5, ±4.3, 51.3% below normal. 54.5% of the dentures were poorly fitting. No significant relationships were found between the MNA and dental parameters except loose fit of dentures. However, there was significantly more food avoidance among the subjects with stated chewing problems, discomfort with dentures or ill-fitting dentures and there were significantly more digestive complaints among this group.


CONCLUSIONS
Impairments of masticatory function may lead to food avoidance and to a higher incidence of digestive complaints.
Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Department for Prosthetic Dentistry, Gerodontology and CMD, Aβmannshauser Str. 4 - 6, 14197 Berlin, Germany.
A
A
Altenhoevel
K
K
Norman
C
C
Smoliner
I
I
Peroz
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D015992:Body Mass Index; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003778:Dentures / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D005767:Gastrointestinal Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology*; D015577:Geriatric Assessment; D005858:Germany / Q000453:epidemiology; D006707:Homes for the Aged; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D044342:Malnutrition / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology; D008409:Mastication / Q000502:physiology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009735:Nursing Homes; D015596:Nutrition Assessment; D009752:Nutritional Status; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012649:Self Concept; D012647:Self-Assessment