Nutritional habits of the aging Polish society—causes of irregularities and the need to introduce changes

Appropriate eating habits are formed from the early childhood but can be modified at different stages of life and into the old age. They depend on economic, social and psychological factors. Eating habits are formed mainly in the family environment and their correct formation is crucial for healthy human development and disease prevention. In the elderly, poor nutrition can be caused by many factors, including: health problems, lack of access to adequate food, physiological changes and socio-economic factors. The aim of the article is to present the need of improving the eating habits of the aging Polish society. The research section presents an up-to-date review of Polish literature using Google Scholar, PubMed and statistical data of the Statistics Poland (GUS). Optimal development, maturation and aging of the body depend on proper nutrition and promotion of proper eating habits during childhood and adolescence. The level of affluence significantly affects eating irregularities, which may result in a preference for unhealthy eating behaviors. A balanced diet during adolescence can prevent many diseases later in life. A properly balanced diet leads to the prevention of many diseases in old age. Building proper eating habits is key to maintaining proper physical condition. Appropriate health education and the use of modern technologies play an important role in creating and maintaining appropriate nutritional behaviors and improving health. It is essential to implement actions aimed at improving dietary habits among the elderly.