Abstract
Suboptimal intake of nutrients is associated with adverse health outcomes. The current study investigated the risk of suboptimal macro and micronutrient intake and their potential determinants in a cross-sectional study of community-dwelling older Danish adults (65–81 years). Nutrient intake was obtained through a 3-day weighted dietary record and information on personal characteristics and attitudes towards specific foods and dietary habits and nutrition through questionnaires. Dietary Reference Values (DRV) from the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations were used for the assessment. Among 157 participants, 68% and 66% had risk of suboptimal intake of dietary fiber and saturated fatty acids (SFA). For mono-unsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and poly-unsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), the numbers were 47% and 62%, respectively. Increased risk of suboptimal protein intake was estimated in 3 to 45% of the participants, depending on the criteria used for the DRV and of the mode of expressing protein intake. Fifty percent had intakes of alcohol above the maximum recommended intake. Risk of micronutrient inadequacy was particularly high for vitamin D and thiamine (80 and 45%, respectively). Total energy intake and attitude regarding healthy eating were associated with lower nutrient intake. The current study illustrates that there is room for improvements in the dietary quality of community dwelling older Danish adults.
Highlights
Within the two to three decades, older adults, defined as ≥65 years of age are projected to increase with up to 100%, globally [1]
As the risk assessment further varied depending on the reference values being calculated as E% or as g/kg BW, future studies reporting on or comparing protein intake in older study populations should be highly aware of the methodology and criteria applied
In a group of apparently healthy community-dwelling older Danes we found that intakes of saturated fats and alcohol were too high compared to official dietary reference values
Summary
Within the two to three decades, older adults, defined as ≥65 years of age are projected to increase with up to 100%, globally [1]. These demographic changes give rise to increasing concerns regarding both the individual as well as societal challenges that may follow. Maintaining proper nutritional status throughout old age can be challenging for several reasons. These include, for instance, social deprivation, loss of appetite, decreased absorptive capacity, and deteriorating oral health [5,6]. The nutritional status of the older population is a growing public health concern
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