What is a common cause of gastrointestinal bleeding in the elderly?

Thinning of gastric membranes is indeed a recognized common cause of gastrointestinal bleeding in the elderly. As individuals age, the gastrointestinal tract undergoes various changes, including atrophy and thinning of the gastric mucosa, which can lead to increased susceptibility to injury and inflammation. This thinning can predispose older adults to mucosal damage from common irritants like NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), which are often used for pain management in this population.

While overuse of dietary supplements, an acidic diet, and excessive fiber intake may contribute to gastrointestinal issues, they are not as direct or prevalent causes of gastrointestinal bleeding as the thinning of gastric membranes. For instance, excessive fiber can lead to bloating or discomfort but does not inherently cause bleeding. Similarly, while certain dietary supplements can interact with medications or irritate the gastrointestinal tract, they are not among the primary causes of bleeding in the elderly when compared to the physiological changes affecting gastric membranes.