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Factors associated with low reported energy intake in the elderly
1The S. Daniel Abraham International Center for Health and Nutrition, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, POB 653, Beer-Sheva 84105 Israel. Dshahar@bgumail.bgu.ac.il
The Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging
|October 14, 2005
Summary
In elderly individuals, a low energy ratio (ER) may indicate underreporting of dietary intake or genuinely low caloric intake due to health status. Factors like higher activity levels and medication use are linked to lower ER.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Nutritional Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Dietary intake underreporting is often assessed using the Energy Ratio (ER).
- In older adults, low ER may stem from factors beyond underreporting, such as compromised health.
- Understanding these nuances is crucial for accurate nutritional assessment in the elderly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize "underreporting" of dietary intake and identify low energy reporters (LER) in an elderly population.
- To explore factors associated with energy misreporting in individuals aged 65 and older.
Main Methods:
- Population-based random sampling of individuals aged 65+ in the Negev region.
- Dietary intake assessed via 24-hour recall; Energy Expenditure (TEE) calculated using Schofield equations.
- Low Energy Reporters (LER) defined as reported energy intake < 0.8 times calculated Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR).
Main Results:
- Lower ER was associated with lower BMI (<22), poorer health status, and increased medication use (over four medications).
- Weight loss (>5 kg) correlated with low ER.
- LERs reported consuming fewer food items and had poorer appetite.
Conclusions:
- While low ER in the elderly can indicate underreporting, it may also reflect true caloric deprivation.
- Health status variables are significantly associated with decreased ER, suggesting genuine low intake.
- Distinguishing between underreporting and caloric deprivation is essential for elderly nutritional management.