NUTRITION IN AGING: THE ROLE OF VITAMIN D

Keeping in mind that adequate vitamin D in late fall and winter in most parts of America is challenging for all people, with the exception of individuals who live in the most southern areas of the country, the elderly are particularly at a high risk of vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency for several additional reasons, which will be summarized in this lecture. Inadequate intake of vitamin D is especially true for institutionalized elderly and those with disabilities. Recent studies identified specific vitamin D receptors in many organs in the body suggesting the role of this vitamin for proper functioning of these organs. Although not yet confirmed, it is reasonable to assume that due to age-related physiological changes, elderly individuals may have lower number of such receptors and that these receptors may be less efficient in absorbing this vitamin. Thus, even with adequate vitamin D status, some elderly may have a high risk of health problems related to insufficient vitamin D activity. This assumption is confirmed in studies that compared parathyroid hormone level in older versus younger individuals. Insufficiency and deficiency of vitamin D lead to a variety of health complications, many of which will be summarized.

There are conflicting recommendations regarding what constitutes adequate vitamin D concentration and what doses of vitamin D should be ingested to treat both insufficiency and deficiency. Also, conflicting information exists on the efficacy of using vitamin D2 and D3 on treating individuals with insufficient and efficient status. Evidence-based recommendations will be suggested for elderly individuals.

Upon successful completion of this one-hour course, the participant should be able to:

• Understand age-related physiological and anatomical changes that impact vitamin D status.



• Grasp guidelines for vitamin D status.



• Gain insight on research findings on vitamin D status and risk of adverse health conditions.



• Provide recommendations regarding maintenance of vitamin D status and treatment of insufficiency and deficiency.

Live Event Date: Nov 17, 2022

Expiration Date: May 31, 2024

Performance Indicators/Learning Objectives: 4.2.6, 8.3.6

Target Audience: RDs, DTRs, Health Professionals

Number of Credits: 1.0

Level(s): 1, 2

Total Cost: 1 Site Credit