Nutrient intakes of a group of independently-living elderly individuals in Toronto

A cross-sectional survey of an age-stratified random sample of 619 independently-living adults (307 males, 312 females) aged 60 years and over, living in Toronto was conducted. Detailed dietary data was collected from three sets of 3-day food records. The mean energy and nutrient intakes appeared to be adequate. However the energy intake of many participants was low, while their fat intake was high. The nutrients of concern for inadequate intakes were calcium, vitamin D and vitamin A. Intakes of zinc, vitamin C and protein were low for a smaller group. Nutrition education is recommended to provide guidance for choosing healthy diets.