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Population dietary habits and physical activity modification with age
H Schröder1, J Marrugat, M Covas
1Lipids and Cardiovascular Epidemiology Unit, Institut Municipal d'Investigació Mèdica, IMIM, Barcelona, Spain. hschroeder@imim.es
European Journal of Clinical Nutrition
|January 30, 2004
Summary
Older adults in Gerona, Spain, show healthier dietary habits and increased physical activity with age. However, some experience nutrient inadequacy, requiring targeted health interventions for this growing population segment.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Nutritional Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Understanding the relationship between aging, lifestyle, and nutritional status is crucial for public health initiatives.
- Dietary habits and physical activity levels significantly impact the health and well-being of older adults.
- Identifying nutrient inadequacies in aging populations is essential for preventative healthcare strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the association between age, dietary habits, and leisure-time physical activity in a Spanish population.
- To determine the prevalence of nutrient inadequacy among different age groups.
- To inform public health programs for the elderly.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted on a random sample of 1748 individuals (838 men, 910 women) aged 25-74 years in Gerona, Spain.
- Dietary habits, including alcohol consumption, and leisure-time physical activity were assessed.
- Nutrient intake and a composite dietary score were evaluated.
Main Results:
- Nutrient densities of carbohydrates, vitamins (B1, B12, C, E, folate), minerals (potassium, iron, magnesium, copper), and dietary fiber increased with age.
- Conversely, intake of total fat, saturated fatty acids, cholesterol, and sodium decreased with age.
- A healthy dietary pattern, indicated by a composite score, was directly associated with age in both genders. Leisure-time physical activity increased with age in men but not in women. Nutrient inadequacy was reported in 29% of men and 10% of women aged 65-74 years.
Conclusions:
- The study suggests that older adults in Gerona exhibit healthier lifestyle behaviors, including improved dietary habits and increased physical activity, compared to younger individuals.
- Despite positive lifestyle trends, a significant proportion of older adults experience nutrient inadequacy, necessitating targeted health interventions.
- These findings highlight the need for healthcare programs to address the specific nutritional needs of the growing elderly population.