Comparisons of Adherence to National Dietary Guidelines among Younger and Older Adults. the Framingham Nutrition Studies, 1991–1995

Abstract

LEARNING OUTCOME:To identify key nutrients to target in nutrition interventions designed specifically for younger or older adults. Although the nutritional status of the U.S. population has been extensively investigated through ongoing national food and nutrition surveys, relatively little is known about the nutrient intake of free-living older Americans, or the manner in which their dietary patterns may differ from younger adults. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of macro- and micronutrient intake estimated from 3-day food records among 1145 men and 1375 women participating in the Framingham Offspring-Spouse study between 1991–1995. Nutrient intakes of younger (26–59 years) and older (60–82 years) adults were compared with published guidelines to determine rates of adherence to recommendations for preventive nutrition. While current estimates of mean population intake appear to be approaching the dietary guidelines, more than half of the Framingham population fall short of the guidelines for a number of key nutrients, including carbohydrate, total fat, saturated fat, fiber, beta-carotene, vitamins E and B 6, and calcium. Differences in rates of adherence exist, such that women of all ages and older men are more likely than younger men to achieve intakes that meet the recommendations. Excess consumption of fat, cholesterol and sodium is problematic among younger adults, especially men. Energy intake in relationship to maintaining ideal body weight and the adequacy of micronutrient intakes are particular concerns for older adults. Age-related and gender differences in rates of adherence to dietary guidelines provide insight for nutrition policy development and public health practice. There appears to be a considerable need for ongoing population-based nutrition education with intervention strategies that appropriately target the specific needs of population subgroups.