Compromised intestinal integrity in older adults during daily activities: a pilot study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Gastroenterology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Malnutrition is a significant health issue in the elderly population.
• Aging gastrointestinal tracts may experience compromised intestinal integrity due to reduced blood flow (hypoperfusion) from mesenteric artery atherosclerosis, potentially impairing nutrient uptake.
• The prevalence of compromised intestinal integrity in older adults is currently unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide proof-of-concept that intestinal integrity is compromised in older adults during daily activities.
• To investigate the relationship between daily activities, mesenteric blood flow challenges, and intestinal integrity markers in the elderly.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-four independent older adults (≥75 years) without prior GI issues underwent a standardized walking test followed by a meal.
• Plasma levels of intestinal fatty acid-binding protein (I-FABP), a marker of intestinal integrity, were measured pre- and post-activity/meal.
• A ≥50% increase in I-FABP from baseline was used to indicate compromised intestinal integrity.

Main Results:

• 18% of participants were malnourished and 32% were at risk, based on PG-SGA scores.
• A significant increase (≥50%) in I-FABP was observed in 35% of participants, indicating compromised intestinal integrity.
• No significant differences in baseline characteristics, walking performance, or dietary intake were found between participants with and without compromised intestinal integrity.

Conclusions:

• This study provides the first evidence that intestinal integrity is compromised during daily activities in a substantial proportion of independently living older adults.
• These findings suggest a potential mechanism contributing to malnutrition in the elderly population.
• Further research is warranted to explore interventions to improve intestinal integrity in this demographic.