The Role of Nutrients in Reducing the Risk for Noncommunicable Diseases during Aging

Abstract

An increasing aging population worldwide accounts for a growing share of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) of the overall social and economic burden. Dietary and nutritional approaches are of paramount importance in the management of NCDs. As a result, nutrition programs are increasingly integrated into public health policies. At present, programs aimed at reducing the burden of NCDs have focused mostly on the excess of unhealthy nutrient intakes whereas the importance of optimizing adequate essential and semi-essential nutrient intakes and nutrient-rich diets has received less attention. Surveys indicate that nutrient intakes of the aging population are insufficient to optimally support healthy aging. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies in older adults are related to increased risk of NCDs including fatigue, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive and neuromuscular function impairments. Reviewed literature demonstrates that improving intake for certain nutrients may be important in reducing progress of NCDs such as musculoskeletal disorders, dementia, loss of vision, and cardiometabolic diseases during aging. Current knowledge concerning improving individual nutrient intakes to reduce progression of chronic disease is still emerging with varying effect sizes and levels of evidence. Most pronounced benefits of nutrients were found in participants who had low nutrient intake or status at baseline or who had increased genetic and metabolic needs for that nutrient. Authorities should implement ways to optimize essential nutrient intake as an integral part of their strategies to address NCDs.

Wine Intake in the Framework of a Mediterranean Diet and Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases: A Short Literature Review of the Last 5 Years

“…Lifestyle, including dietary habits, is a determining factor of the high incidence and prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as cardiovascular disease (CVD), diabetes and dementia [1]. Several studies have shown that non-smokers, the practice of physical activity, having an adequate body mass index (BMI) and a healthy diet pattern (rich in vegetables, fruits, legumes and fish, and limited in red meat), with moderate alcohol consumption, are factors associated with a lower risk of mortality by all causes and CVD (≥65%) compared to subjects who have an unhealthy lifestyle [2][3][4].…”

The Effect of Multi-Vitamin/Multi-Mineral Supplementation on Nutritional Status in Older Adults Receiving Drug Therapies: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

“…Among older adults, micronutrient inadequacy and deficiency elicit a variety of consequences, including a reduced ability to resist infection, impaired cognitive function, and increased risk for chronic disease, thereby reducing the health span (Bruins et al 2019). For example, nutrient deficiency in patients with heart failure is a significant determinant of heart failure outcomes (Lennie et al 2018).…”

Condições de saúde e mudança de peso de idosos em dez anos do Estudo SABE

“…19 In order to reduce risks associated with chronic diseases, changes in diet, such as reducing fat and simple carbohydrates, are encouraged and can result in weight loss. 20,21 In the case of arthropathies, for instance, intentional weight loss of >10% provides important clinical benefits. 21 On the other hand, physiological changes that promote catabolic and inflammatory stress and greater energy expenditure, 22 as in the case of pulmonary diseases, can result in unintentional weight loss and cause the health condition of the more elderly to worsen.…”