Abstract

This study examined the relation of micronutrient intake and cognitive function in elderly men. The analytic sample included 5625 community dwelling men age 65–100 (mean(sd) age 73(6) years) free of cognitive impairment (Modified Mini Mental (3MS)≥80). The Block food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), 3MS, Trail Making Test part B (TB), and medical history were completed. Micronutrients associated with cognitive function in prior literature were evaluated [vitamins: B, C, D, E; and minerals: calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc]. The nutrients B3, B12, iron and zinc were each associated with both outcomes (3MS and TB) in univariate analysis. Recommended Daily Allowances (RDA) were used to dichotomize these 4 nutrients (0/1), and then they were combined to form a Micronutrient Index (MNI) to study the collective association with cognitive function (MNI of 4 = adequate intake of all nutrients). Results [OR(95% CI)] from multivariable logistic regression demonstrate that higher MNI is associated with superior cognitive function (highest 25th% of score) on the 3MS [1.14(1.06–1.22)] and TB [1.15(1.07–1.23)], independent of age, race, education, activity, depression, diabetes, calories, and supplement use. The MNI associations were stronger than those observed for any individual nutrient. Results suggest that dietary intake above the RDA for B3, B12, iron & zinc combined, may promote cognitive function in elderly men.

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