In 2017, 25 per cent of the world’s population was over 50 – a record number. As you age, you may notice that your body goes through changes. Many of these changes are random, although they are likely to be strongly influenced by your environment and lifestyle. The good news is that there are things you can do to ease the effects of ageing on your body, such as eating well and keeping active, both of which will keep you fit and healthy for as long as possible.

 “To promote and maintain good health, adults need moderate intensity exercise for about half-an-hour multiple times a week,” explained Italian-registered Nestlé Malta dietician, Mirko Cirolli.

“The balance between exercise and nutrition plays a pivotal role in the regulation of skeletal and muscle mass. Muscle and bone mass tends to decrease with advancing age and may represent a huge threat to loss of mobility and independence in later life. Oxidative stress and damage to molecules is the main cause of cellular damage, this process is progressive and it ultimately leads to disease.”

Most population-based observational studies suggest that greater dietary protein intake is associated with higher bone mineral density values in middle-aged and older adults. Dietary protein affects bone and muscle mass in several ways and there is evidence to demonstrate that increased protein availability can enhance muscle preservation as well as improve bone regeneration in older subjects.

 “It is also very important to note that the diet not only responds to nutritional needs, but it also gratifies and satisfies by helping people to rediscover the pleasure of food. Mealtimes can represent some of the most pleasant moments in daily life,” Mr Cirolli continued.

The new Meritene range of products, which was recently launched locally by Nestle Malta Ltd through their distributor Alfred Gera & Sons, actually represents a connection between food and healthy ageing nutrition. Eating a variety of whole foods is recommended but it isn’t always easy to have a balanced diet, and studies show that older people can have inadequate intakes of various nutrients in their diet.

Nestlé Health Science has developed food supplements available in the form of a tasty milk shake, a refreshing orange drink and even a chocolate treat. Meritene is an innovative brand with a range of products that helps to promote healthy ageing nutrition and improve people’s nutritional intake.

Meritene Mobilis contains protein, collagen, calcium and vitamin D in addition to hyaluronic acid. By just adding water to it, Meritene Mobilis creates a gluten-free vanilla milkshake that helps to support joint, bone and muscle health.

Meritene Vitachoco is a vitamin supplement available as a Swiss chocolate treat rather than the traditional capsule or in tablet form. It contains a special blend of 12 vitamins and five minerals: vitamins A, C, B6, B12 iron and zinc, all of which work together to help maintain normal immune system function. Another product in the range is Meritene Regenervis.

In addition to the potassium and magnesium recommended to reduce tiredness and fatigue, this product provides coenzyme Q10, lutein and resveratrol that helps to boost overall health and reduce oxidative stress. Added to water, it makes a refreshing orange drink. All three products are available locally.

Meritene products are imported by Nestlé Malta Ltd and are distributed by Alfred Gera & Sons. These product are  exclusively sold in pharmacies.

(Content provided by Nestle Malta Ltd)