Evaluation of micronutrient intakes of older Australians: The National Nutrition Survey--1995

Elaine Bannerman, A M Magarey, L A Daniels

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

PURPOSE: To determine the proportion of Australian adults >65 years with nutrient intakes less than 70% of the current national RDIs and investigate associated differences in both diet quality and quantity.

METHOD: Intake data were collected as part of the National Nutrition Survey 1995 representing all areas of Australia. Dietary intake of 1960 (902 males) adults >65 years was assessed using a structured 24-hour diet recall. Intakes of 12 micronutrients were compared with current Australian recommended dietary intakes (RDIs) and assessed as > RDI, < RDI but > 70% RDI, and < 70% RDI.

RESULTS: Intakes of vitamin A, magnesium, potassium and calcium were < 70% RDI in 12-24% males and 14-61% females. In addition 10% and 43% females had low intakes of folate and zinc respectively. None of the participants had intakes of niacin or vitamin C < 70% RDI, and few males had low thiamin intakes. Specific nutrient density and energy intake (kJ/kg) were significantly less in those with intakes < 70% RDI for eight of the 12 nutrients studied.

CONCLUSIONS: In general the low nutrient intakes reported here can be attributed to diets of poor quality, in terms of low nutrient density, and quantity of food eaten. Age-specific targeted nutrition promotion strategies are required to improve overall health of older Australians.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)243-7
Number of pages5
JournalThe journal of nutrition, health & aging (JNHA)
Volume5
Issue number4
Publication statusPublished - 2001

Keywords / Materials (for Non-textual outputs)

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Australia
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Diet/standards
  • Energy Intake/physiology
  • Female
  • Health Promotion
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mental Recall
  • Micronutrients/administration & dosage
  • Minerals/administration & dosage
  • Nutrition Policy
  • Nutrition Surveys
  • Vitamins/administration & dosage

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