The Effect of Instant Pumpkin-base Soups on the Nutritional Status, Blood Pressure, and Constipation Status of Elderly #

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of two types of instant pumpkin soup on nutritional status, blood pressure, and constipation in elderly. A total of 21 healthy elderly participated in this quasi-experimental study, divided into two groups: group receiving original instant pumpkin soup (IPS) and group receiving IPS with chicken breast (IPS+CB) (n=9). The soup (15g) was provided for 4 weeks with a frequency of 6 days/week. The results showed a significant decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure in IPS+CB group, while shorter duration of defecation, and an increase in Bristol score found in both groups.