As we grow older and our bodies and lifestyles change, our
nutritional needs change, as well. We need about 20 percent
fewer calories at age 80 than at age 30. About two-thirds of
this decrease can be blamed on a more sedentary lifestyle that
often comes with getting older, and the rest on a lower
metabolic rate. Although healthy older adults who eat a balanced
diet don't need a dietary supplement, several aspects of aging
may increase the likelihood of a deficiency in key vitamins and
minerals, according to the National Institute on Aging. These
include having a reduced sense of taste and smell; spending more
time indoors; difficulty chewing; following a restricted diet
because of a health condition; eating alone; experiencing loss
of appetite; and taking medications that may prevent absorption
of vitamins and minerals. Older adults also are at higher risk
for dehydration because they may not notice when they are
thirsty. As we age, our bodies do not process and absorb certain
important nutrients, such as vi