1. Introduction
Population aging is a worldwide phenomenon. By 2050, more than 20% of the global population will be aged 65years or older. With advancing age, physiological changes, chronic disease, medication use, and social factors increase the risk of malnutrition. Poor nutritional status in older adults is linked to greater disability, loss of independence, higher rates of hospitalization, and mortality. Consequently, ensuring adequate nutrition is a cornerstone of healthy aging.
This page reviews current evidence on how targeted nutrient supplementation can improve the nutritional status and functional performance of older adults.
2. Why Older Adults Are at Risk of Nutrient Deficiencies
2.1 Physiological Changes
- Reduced appetite and taste perception: Diminished gustatory and olfactory function may lower food intake.
- Altered digestion and absorption: Decreased gastric acid and pancreatic enzyme secretion affect the bioavailability of protein, vitamin B12, iron, and calcium.
- Sarcopenia: Agerelated loss of muscle mass heightens protein requirements.
2.2 Chronic Diseases & Medications
Conditions such as heart failure, COPD, diabetes, and gastrointestinal disorders can increase metabolic demands or interfere with nutrient absorption. Polypharmacy, especially diuretics, protonpump inhibitors, and metformin, may cause losses of potassium, magnesium, vitamin B12, and other micronutrients.
2.3 Social & Economic Factors
Limited income, social isolation, and reduced mobility often lead to reliance on lowquality, inexpensive foods and skipped meals.
3. Key Nutrients Frequently Targeted for Supplementation
3.1 Protein & Essential Amino Acids
Older adults need 1.01.2g/kg body weight per day, higher than the 0.8g/kg recommendation for younger adults. Supplementation with whey protein (2030g per serving) or leucinerich formulations improves muscle protein synthesis, especially when combined with resistance training.
3.2 Vitamin D
Vitamin D deficiency (<20ng/mL) is common in the elderly due to reduced skin synthesis and limited sun exposure. Supplement doses of 8001000IU/day have been shown to reduce falls, improve bone density, and may modestly enhance muscle strength.
3.3 Calcium
Calcium intake of 1,200mg/day, ideally from dairy or fortified sources, supports skeletal health. Calcium citrate is better tolerated in older adults with reduced gastric acidity.
3.4 BVitamins (B12, Folate, B6)
Vitamin B12 absorption declines after age 60; oral cyanocobalamin 500g/day or intramuscular injections correct anemia and neurocognitive deficits. Folate (400g/day) and B6 (1.7mg/day) help maintain homocysteine levels and cognitive function.
**3.5 Omega3 Fatty Acids** EPA/DHA (1g/day) reduce systemic inflammation, support cardiovascular health, and may preserve muscle mass.
