Malnourishment increases the risk of frailty and can be very detrimental. It has been estimated that the greater use of healthcare because of malnutrition results in:
- 65% more GP visits
- 82% more hospital admissions
- 30% longer hospital stay
(Isabel T. D. Correia, 2003)(Public Health England, 2017)
Food intake declines as our age advances. Date suggests this is more so in men than women. On average a decline of 1000-1200kcal/day in men and around 600-800 kcal/day in men. This results in a decline of most important nutrients(Looker, 1997). Body weight and lean body mass also decreases in advancing age (Kirkland, 2002).
The older athlete should monitor consumption of nutrients to to insure good health especially regarding the intake of macronutrients such as carbohydrates to assist in the promotion of glucose storage and use of this as an energy source during exercise. Good levels of protein intake should also be monitored to promote strength training induced hypertrophy of the muscles(Campbell & Geik, 2004)
A large emphasis on micronutrient intake should also be considered, micronutrients such as vitamin D and E and minerals especially iron and calcium (very essential in muscle contraction, the maintenance of strong teeth and bones and regulating a normal heart beat (Campbell & Geik, 2004).
“The first wealth is health.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Physiology and Nutrition 