In non-malnourished older adults with and without sarcopenia, we observed that sarcopenia substantially impacted self-reported quality of life and physical activity levels. Differences in nutrient concentrations and dietary intakes were identified, which might be related to the differences in muscle mass, strength and function between the two groups. This study provides information to help strengthen the characterization of this geriatric syndrome sarcopenia and indicates potential target areas for nutritional interventions.
Micronutrient deficiencies and low dietary intakes among community-dwelling older adults
are associated with functional decline, frailty and difficulties with independent living.
As such, studies that seek to understand the types and magnitude of potential dietary
inadequacies might be beneficial for guiding future interventions. We carried out a
systematic review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and
Meta-Analyses statement. Observational cohort and longitudinal studies presenting the
habitual dietary intakes of older adults ( ≥ 65 years) were included. Sex-specific mean
(and standard deviation) habitual micronutrient intakes were extracted from each article
to calculate the percentage of older people who were at risk for inadequate micronutrient
intakes using the estimated average requirement (EAR) cut-point method. The percentage at
risk for inadequate micronutrient intakes from habitual dietary intakes was calculated for
twenty micronutrients. A total of thirty-seven articles were included in the pooled
systematic analysis. Of the twenty nutrients analysed, six were considered a possible
public health concern: vitamin D, thiamin, riboflavin, Ca, Mg and Se. The extent to which
these apparent inadequacies are relevant depends on dynamic factors, including absorption
and utilisation, vitamin and mineral supplement use, dietary assessment methods and the
selection of the reference value. In light of these considerations, the present review
provides insight into the type and magnitude of vitamin and mineral inadequacies.
Sarcopenic older adults differed in certain nutritional intakes and biochemical nutrient status compared with nonsarcopenic older adults. Dietary supplement intake reduced the gap for some of these nutrients. Targeted nutritional intervention may therefore improve the nutritional intake and biochemical status of sarcopenic older adults.
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