Nutrient intakes and iron status of elderly men and women.

Nutrient intake including iron and iron status indicators were investigated in 96 elderly subjects. Subjects were divided into 6 groups based on the sex and age. Each subject completed a 24-h diet recall and semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Iron status indicators were measured. Body iron stores were calculated. The mean iron intake was higher than the current Taiwan Recommended Daily Nutrient Allowance of 10 mg in all groups. However, iron intake did not correlate with iron status indicators in any groups. Body iron stores significantly positively correlated with plasma ferritin (p < 0.05). One man in 65-69 y group, 2 men in 70-74 y group, 3 women in 65-69 y group, and 2 women in 70-74 y group were identified iron deficiency anemia. Elderly subjects had sufficient iron intakes, but iron deficiency still occurred in the elderly.