Micronutrients & recovery
In older adults (65+), low daily energy intake (<21 kcal/kg) and deficiencies in specific nutrients (protein, vitamins D, E, C, folate) are significantly associated with the presence of frailty, independent of confounders.
For older adults, maintaining adequate energy intake (at least 21 kcal/kg/day) and ensuring sufficient intake of protein, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and folate is crucial for preventing frailty. Relying solely on weight loss as an indicator of nutritional health is insufficient; direct assessment of dietary quality is recommended for early identification and intervention.
This study provides evidence that low intakes of energy and selected nutrients are independently associated with frailty.
Why this rating
Observational cross-sectional study with a large sample size (N=802) and rigorous adjustment for confounders, but causality cannot be established.
Source
Low Nutrient Intake Is an Essential Component of Frailty in Older Persons
Benedetta Bartali et al. · The Journals of Gerontology Series A · 2006
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