Effect of micronutrient status on geriatric function and clinical outcome

Due to pathophysiological changes, the risk of micronutrient deficiency in geriatric increased. Currently, dietary intake of vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin E, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, zinc and selenium was still lower than the recommended dietary reference intake in the elderly. Geriatric micronutrient deficiencies may contribute to the decrease of physiological function, immune function and cognitive function. It may also result in frailty and increase the risk of adverse clinical outcomes. The appropriate supplementation of single or multiple micronutrients can improve physiological function, cognitive function, immune function and frailty, meantime, reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and infection. Given there are still no generally accepted standards on the time and method of intervention, population-based randomized controlled studies are needed to provide the basis for promoting healthy ageing. Key words: Micronutrient; Elderly; Intervention; Function