The difference in food and nutrient intake between smokers and non-smokers in an elderly Chinese population in Beijing, China

This study examined variations in dietary intake, which were associated with differences in education, lifestyle and health behaviours of elderly men and women (n=305) in Beijing Twenty-four-hour dietary recalls were obtained through in-home interview. Nutrient analyses of the reported diets were carried out using the Chinese nutrient database. It was found that more men than women smoked and that alcohol consumption was associated with smoking. Smokers had a lower intake of vitamin C (P<0.01), carotenoids (P<0.05) and calcium (P<0.05) than non-smokers in both genders. Female smokers also showed a lower intake of fruits, vegetables and milk compared with female non-smokers.