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Nutrition and nutritional requirements for the older adult

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Abstract

Establishing reliable nutrient requirements for individuals over the age of 65 years is a difficult task. Research on nutrient requirements in the aged is sparse and often contradictory. However, there are important clues in the literature suggesting that requirements for certain nutrients are altered with age and that preventable nutrient deficiencies exist. Energy expenditure and caloric intake typically decline with age. Unless nutrient density of the diet improves, a parallel decline in vitamin and mineral intake is inevitable. Deficiencies or suboptimal intakes of water-soluble vitamins, vitamin D, calcium, zinc, copper, chromium, and water are reported in groups of older adults. Marginal nutrient deficiencies in this population may easily go undetected and contribute to morbidity.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Connecticut, School of Allied Health Professions, U-101, 06269-2101, Storrs, CT, USA

    Jane E. Kerstetter Ph.D., R.D. & Polly A. Fitz M.A., R.D.

  2. Department of Veteran's Affairs Medical Center, Dayton, Ohio, USA

    Beth A. Holthausen M.S., R.D.

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  1. Jane E. Kerstetter Ph.D., R.D.
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  2. Beth A. Holthausen M.S., R.D.
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  3. Polly A. Fitz M.A., R.D.
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This work was performed at the University of Connecticut, School of Allied Health Professions, U-101, Storrs, CT 06269-2101

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Kerstetter, J.E., Holthausen, B.A. & Fitz, P.A. Nutrition and nutritional requirements for the older adult. Dysphagia 8, 51–58 (1993). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01351480

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