Micronutrients and ageing: intakes and requirements

Ageing (and related diseases) may be described as a process which results f rom impaired immunological, genetic, neurological or endocrinological funct ions. Oxidative mechanisms may play an important role in the ageing process . It is important, therefore, to emphasize the relationship between health and nutrition in the elderly, particularly with regard to antioxidant micro nutrient requirements. Indeed, accelerated ageing may be related to a defic it in the intakes of antioxidant Vitamins (tocopherols, carotenoids and vit amin C) and trace elements (Zn and Se), as well as to an impaired adaptativ e mechanism against oxidative stress. Physiological modifications occurring during the lifetime and environmental influences are significant factors c ontributing to the impairment of micronutrient status, and these factors ha ve to be considered when defining the specific requirements of the elderly. For Fe there is no evidence of benefit of supplementation in healthy subje cts, but in the present state of knowledge combined supplementation, includ ing Zn, Se, vitamins C and E and carotenoids, could be the best way to prev ent accelerated ageing and reduce the risk of several common age-related di seases.