What effect does aging have on digestion?

As individuals age, various physiological changes occur that can impact the digestive system, leading to decreased efficiency in digestion. The muscles in the gastrointestinal tract may lose strength and tone, which can slow down the movement of food through the digestive system. Additionally, the production of digestive enzymes and stomach acid often decreases with age, which can impair the breakdown and absorption of nutrients.

Furthermore, older adults may experience changes in their appetite, oral health issues such as missing teeth or ill-fitting dentures, and conditions that affect their ability to chew and swallow, all of which can further contribute to less efficient digestion. Therefore, the assertion that digestion becomes less efficient with aging accurately reflects these physiological changes that can lead to potential digestive issues.