Are You over age 60?
If you are, a simple do-it-yourself test can give you insight about your
nutrition level. It is called the Mid-Arm Circumference (MAC) test. It's done
by measuring your arm at the widest point between your elbow and your shoulder.
If it is less than about ten inches (the study based in Canada used 26
centimeters) you’re one of the people who were at greatest risk of improper
nutrition. This was according to a report in the January Journal of the
American Geriatrics Society based on a study that took over nineteen months. It
involved almost 500 people over age 60 and was done by the University Health
Network in Toronto.
The test is not 100% accurate , but taking an occasional measurement can be
a good indicator of changes taking place—and a signal to check to see if
nutritional needs are being met.
SOURCE: The American Geriatrics Society
www.americangeriatrics.org/news/tools4mortality.shtml