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Exercise training and nutrient intake in elderly women
D E Butterworth1, D C Nieman, R Perkins
1Department of Home Economics, State University, Boone, NC 28608.
Journal of the American Dietetic Association
|June 1, 1993
Summary
Moderate exercise in elderly women did not improve nutrient intake. Highly conditioned older adults consume more, but dietary quality remains unchanged, suggesting exercise alone doesn't boost nutrition.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Nutritional Science
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Elderly women often have suboptimal nutrient intake.
- The impact of exercise on nutrient intake in older adults requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of a 12-week moderate exercise program on nutrient intake in sedentary elderly women.
- To compare nutrient intake between sedentary and highly conditioned elderly women.
Main Methods:
- 30 sedentary elderly women (67-85 years) participated in a 12-week walking or calisthenics program.
- Dietary intake assessed via 7-day food records at baseline, 5, and 12 weeks.
- Cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) and body composition measured.
Main Results:
- Walking improved VO2max by 12.6% but did not alter body weight or skinfolds.
- No significant changes in nutrient intake were observed in the exercise groups.
- Highly conditioned women showed higher energy and nutrient intake (weight-adjusted) but similar dietary quality.
Conclusions:
- Moderate exercise programs do not spontaneously improve nutrient intake quantity or quality in elderly women.
- While highly conditioned individuals consume more, achieving this level of fitness may be challenging for many older adults.