Low micronutrient intake in nursing home residents, a cross-sectional study

Low intake of micronutrients is associated with health-related problems in nursing home residents. As their food intake is generally low, it is expected that their micronutrient intake will be low as well. The nutrient intake of 189 residents (mean age 85.0 years (SD: 7.4)) in five different Dutch nursing homes was measured based on 3-day direct observations of intake. Micronutrient intake, without supplementation, was calculated using the Dutch food composition table, and SPADE software was used to model habitual intake. Intake was compared to the estimated average requirement (EAR) or adequate intake (AI) as described in the Dutch dietary reference values. A low intake was defined as >10% not meeting the EAR or when the P50 (median) intake was below the AI. Vitamin A, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, B6, folate, B12, C, D, E, copper, iron, zinc, calcium, iodine, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and selenium were investigated. Our data showed that vitamin and mineral intake was low for most assessed nutrients. An AI was only seen for vitamin B12 (men only), iodine (men only), and phosphorus. A total of 50% of the population had an intake below the EAR for riboflavin, vit B6, folate, and vitamin D. For reference values expressed in AI, P50 intake of vitamin E, calcium, iodine, magnesium, potassium, and selenium was below the AI. To conclude: micronutrient intake in nursing home residents is far too low in most of the nursing home population. A "food-first" approach could increase dietary intake, but supplements could be considered if the "food-first" approach is not successful.