Qualitative Nutritional Intake Analysis of Older Adults with Sjogren's Syndrome

Previous studies support certain nutritional inadequacies in the diets of older adults. Studies also identify xerostomia as a contributor to inadequate lubrication, mastication, taste and swallowing. Prior to this study a relationship between xerostomia and inadequate nutritional intake has not been documented. This study qualitatively analyzed the diets of older adults with Sjogren's Syndrome (SS); (n= 28; mean age = 69.1), A control group of age‐sex‐physical status matched seniors; (n= 24; mean age = 68.2) was also analyzed. The presence of xerostomia was confirmed by both clinical and sialometric techniques for alt subjects. Subjects were interviewed, completed a five‐day diet record, and were interviewed again for quantitative analysis. The diets were then analyzed by computer for specific nutrient composition. The results indicated significant inadequacies at the p < 0.001 level for all the nutrients assessed in SS subject group as compared to both the controls and the RDAs. The significant differences were for: kilocalories, protein, fiber, potassium, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B‐6, thiamin, riboflavin, iron, calcium and zinc. The most striking inadequacies (> 75% of all subjects) were for: fiber, vitamin B‐6, potassium, calcium and zinc. These results support an association between geriatric malnutrition and xerostomia. This study provides an important foundation for future research in the area of xerostomia in the aged.