The nutrient and anthropometric status of physically active and inactive older adults.
OBJECTIVE
To assess nutrient intake, anthropometrics, and biochemical indicators in physically active and inactive older adults.


METHODS
A cross-sectional sample of older adults who participated in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1988-94, was divided into two groups based on activity level.


METHODS
A national sample of men (n = 1876) and women (n = 2009) 65 years of age and older who reported diet and exercise information and were medically examined.


METHODS
Association of activity level with nutrients, anthropometrics, and biochemistries.


METHODS
Means were calculated for each of the variables observed by activity category. T tests were used to determine if the differences in the means were statistically significant at P <.05.


RESULTS
Older adults reported intakes of food energy, calcium, magnesium, and zinc below recommendation. Nutrient intakes and anthropometrics for active and inactive women were similar; those for active and inactive men differed significantly for many nutrients and for anthropometrics associated with activity. CONCLUSIONS ANS IMPLICATIONS: Inadequate intakes of food energy and micronutrients are of concern because of the metabolic stresses associated with activity. Future research is needed to determine the impact of increased physical activity on nutrient needs and body composition in the elderly.
Gerrior
Shirley A
SA
US Department of Agriculture, Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, Alexandria, Virginia 22302-1594, USA. shirley.gerrior@cnpp.usda.gov
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000368:Aged; D000886:Anthropometry; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D002149:Energy Intake / Q000502:physiology*; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009749:Nutrition Surveys; D009751:Nutritional Requirements; D009752:Nutritional Status; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires