Effects of age on nutrient requirements

The effects of age on nutrient requirements are difficult to quantify for older adults because there is great variability in aging. There are trends in changes that have been identified through longitudinal studies that indicate that, although there is a decrease in energy requirement with advancing age, there is not a parallel decrease in the need for most other nutrients. In fact, protein requirements per kilogram of body weight may increase; increases for certain vitamins may be due to their unique absorptive and metabolic processes that may be affected by chronic conditions. There is little evidence to support changes in mineral needs unless there is an association with the management of a chronic condition. Fluid requirements to prevent dehydration must be addressed in elderly people.