How does age affect your diet?

Answer 1

Growing children need slightly more protein and calories per pound than adults.

As people age, the number of calories recommended is reduced. By age 50, it's reduced by about 500 calories relative to younger adults. This is largely due to lost muscle mass.

After age 45, the amount of sodium recommended is reduced by 900 milligrams.

After age 50, the amount of iron and copper recommended is reduced greatly, so much so that experts recommend the replacement of any copper Plumbing or use of filters to remove the copper and iron found in water. However, many older people can develop the opposite problem of poor iron retention, and will need increased iron supplements. For older folks, certain nutritional needs can vary widely.

Vitamin supplements are recommended for people over age 50, as their bodies don't absorb many nutrients as efficiently as younger people, and other organs such as the liver don't store as many nutrients as well. Absorption of vitamins B6 and B12 can be particular problems, and sub-lingual supplements are very helpful.

Vitamin D and calcium are particular concerns, and supplements are encouraged.

Protein requirements are higher for people suffering illness. Generally, protein needs increase for women over age 50.