Nutrition in older adults

Older adults and health care providers are confronted with an array of developments in the area of geriatric nutrition. The nutraceutical industry is expanding and new categories like functional foods, prebiotics and probiotics have emerged. The role of diets in prevention of cancer, cardiovascular disease and cognitive disorders is being recognized. Severe calorie restriction to enhance longevity may be difficult in humans since associated protein, vitamin and trace element deficiencies may occur. Homocysteine has assumed significance in the area of vascular disease and dementia. The health care provider must be aware of nutritional advances and spend sufficient time on dietary counseling during the patient encounter.