What are the main nutritional deficiencies of the elderly?

As we age, the human body undergoes many changes, some of which directly affect nutritional needs and nutrient absorption . In older adults, these changes can lead to various nutritional deficiencies , significantly impacting their health and quality of life. This article aims to explore these deficiencies , highlighting the nutrients that are often deficient in this age group and proposing strategies to prevent and manage these deficiencies effectively on a daily basis.

Physiological and nutritional changes in the elderly

Aging brings about a series of notable physiological changes that directly influence eating habits, digestive capacity, and the assimilation of nutrients necessary for maintaining health.

Decreased thirst and risk of dehydration

Among these changes, a decrease in the sensation of thirst is often observed, which can lead to dehydration . In addition, kidney function in seniors can be impaired, thus affecting waste elimination and water balance .

Decreased digestive efficiency

Additionally, decreased digestive efficiency is common, caused by factors such as reduced digestive enzyme production and slowed intestinal motility. These changes can lead to difficulties in breaking down and absorbing key nutrients.

Impact on nutrient assimilation

Difficulties in assimilating food affect the absorption of proteins, vitamins, and minerals, making assimilation less efficient.

As we age, our metabolism also undergoes changes, often characterized by a reduction in basal metabolic rate. This change can affect how the body uses and stores energy, directly impacting weight and body composition.

Challenges related to chronic pathologies and medications

Seniors often face various chronic diseases , which can be influenced by diet. Taking medications for these diseases can also impact appetite and nutrient absorption.

These combined factors increase the risk of malnutrition in older adults. It is therefore crucial to carefully monitor their diet and adapt it to meet their specific needs. This includes paying close attention to essential nutrient intake, managing hydration , and considering dietary restrictions and drug interactions.

The most common deficiencies in the elderly and their consequences

Older people are particularly susceptible to developing certain nutritional deficiencies .

Vitamin D deficiency

Vitamin D is crucial for bone health, calcium absorption, and immune function. In older adults, this deficiency is often exacerbated by reduced exposure to sunlight, which is a natural source of vitamin D. Additionally, with age, the skin becomes less efficient at synthesizing this vitamin. This deficiency can lead to weaker bones, increasing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.

Calcium deficiency

Calcium is essential for maintaining strong bones and normal muscle and nerve function. With age, calcium absorption can decrease, and diets can often lack calcium-rich foods. This deficiency can accelerate bone loss and also increase the risk of developing osteoporosis.

Iron deficiency

Iron is a key component of hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen in the blood. In older adults, iron deficiency can be due to inadequate diet, reduced absorption, or chronic blood loss. This deficiency can lead to anemia, which can lead to fatigue and general weakness.

Vitamin B deficiency

B vitamins , especially B12, are essential for many functions, including nerve and metabolic function. Vitamin B12 is particularly important, and its deficiency is common in older people, often due to reduced absorption due to changes in gastric acid secretion.

Other nutrients may also be deficient, such as vitamin B6, vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc. These deficiencies can affect various aspects of health , ranging from immune function to skin health and mental well-being.

Strategies to prevent deficiencies

Food

To prevent nutrient deficiencies in seniors, it's important to eat a rich and varied diet. It's essential to include nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in every meal.

It's also crucial to adapt their diet to provide the right amount of protein, which is essential for maintaining muscle mass and strength. They'll need to eat lean proteins that contain a low amount of fat, such as poultry, fish, eggs, lentils, etc. However, the quality of the protein is also important because it must be easily digestible. This will help prevent muscle loss and strengthen muscle tone.

Particular attention should be paid to having sufficient calcium, vitamin D and vitamin B intake. Therefore, it is important to eat foods rich in calcium (such as low-fat dairy products, almonds, green leafy vegetables) and ensure sun exposure with sunscreen. It is also important to consider favoring a diet that is easy to chew and digest in the event that the person has physical or dental limitations.

Supplementation

In some cases, supplements may be necessary to address nutritional deficiencies, particularly for vitamin D, calcium, and vitamin B12. However, supplementation should be considered for what it is—a complement to a balanced diet, not a substitute. It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional to establish a suitable supplementation plan.

Hydration

Daily hydration is also essential for seniors, as it directly influences nutrient absorption and health maintenance. With age, the sensation of thirst decreases, increasing the risk of dehydration. Therefore, it is important to ensure regular consumption of water and fluids. Furthermore, water helps facilitate digestion, transport nutrients, and eliminate waste. Proper hydration can also improve skin condition, contributing to overall well-being.

Hydratis will help to have a better assimilation of liquids and an additional intake of mineral salts and trace elements . This will provide energy. Our solution is enriched with magnesium , potassium , sodium and zinc , crucial minerals for this age group. Magnesium , for example, reduces fatigue and maintains electrolyte balance, thus promoting normal energy metabolism and optimal functioning of the nervous and muscular systems. Manganese supports healthy energy metabolism, protects against oxidative stress and promotes healthy connective tissues. Potassium is crucial for the nervous system, muscle function and blood pressure regulation. Zinc , meanwhile, is a major asset for the immune system.

 

Older adults face different nutritional needs , particularly regarding their appetite and their ability to eat enough. However, by adopting a rich and varied diet , enriched with key nutrients, supplemented with adequate hydration , it is possible to mitigate these deficiencies. In short, careful nutrition and appropriate hydration are essential to maintain the health and well-being of older adults.

Enjoy your meal and stay hydrated !

Bibliography

PubMed. December 1981. “Age related physiological changes and their clinical significance” - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1273316/

PubMed. January 4, 2023. “Physiology Aging” - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556106/

PubMed. 2019. “Nutritional Interventions for Elderly and Considerations for the Development of Geriatric Foods” - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6971894/

ScienceDirect. September 2015. “Changes during aging and their association with malnutrition” -https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2210833515000672

PubMed. 2021. “Nutrition and Healthy Aging: Prevention and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Diseases” - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8706789/

Cambridge University. January 30, 2019. “Nutritional challenges for older adults in Europe: current status and future directions” - https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/proceedingsof-the-nutrition-society/article/nutritional-challenges-for-older-adults-in-europe-current-status-andfuture-directions/75EAA0A3525BD70078D1F5D9A8123974