{"id":8493,"date":"2026-07-23T18:56:08","date_gmt":"2026-07-23T18:56:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/edenshealth.de\/behandlung-von-kranksheitsarten\/ernaehrung-im-alter\/"},"modified":"2026-09-28T10:44:57","modified_gmt":"2026-09-28T10:44:57","slug":"ernaehrung-im-alter","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/edenshealth.de\/en\/behandlung-von-krankheitsarten\/ernaehrung-im-alter\/","title":{"rendered":"Nutrition in old age: Recognizing nutrient deficiencies, reactivating organs, staying slim"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Nutrition in old age: Recognizing nutrient deficiencies, reactivating organs, staying slim<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n

The body changes with each decade of life \u2013 and so does its actual need. What's barely noticeable at 20 becomes the crucial difference between exhaustion and energy at 50 or 60. This article reveals which nutrients are most commonly lacking in old age, how to revitalize your vital organs, at what age it's worth paying attention to certain topics \u2013 and why losing weight at 50 follows different rules than at 20.<\/p>\n

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Why nutritional needs change with age<\/h2>\n

Several processes occur simultaneously: With increasing age, the skin produces significantly less vitamin D from sunlight, stomach acid production decreases, making it more difficult to absorb vitamin B12, and kidney function declines by an average of about 1 Tp3 per year from around the age of 20. At the same time, many people experience a decrease in appetite, while their actual nutritional needs remain the same or even increase. Without targeted training, muscle mass\u2014the body's largest metabolic organ\u2014gradually declines from the age of 30, further altering basal metabolic rate and nutrient utilization.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

The most common nutrient deficiencies in old age<\/h2>\n
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Vitamin D<\/h3>\n

The body's own production of vitamin D through the skin decreases noticeably with age. A deficiency often manifests as lethargy and promotes bone loss. The German Nutrition Society (DGE) recommends an additional 20 \u00b5g per day for those with limited sunlight exposure.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Vitamin B12<\/h3>\n

Reduced stomach acid makes it harder to absorb nutrients from food. Typical symptoms include difficulty concentrating and forgetfulness; a chronic deficiency is also associated with an increased risk of dementia.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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magnesium<\/h3>\n

Headaches, heart rhythm disturbances, tingling or numbness can indicate a deficiency. magnesium<\/span> is also needed as a cofactor so that Vitamin D<\/span> can be converted into its active form at all.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Calcium<\/h3>\n

Together with vitamin D, calcium is crucial for bone density. Especially in postmenopausal women, the risk of osteoporosis increases significantly, making adequate calcium intake more important than in younger years.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Omega-3 fatty acids<\/h3>\n

They have an anti-inflammatory effect and support both cardiovascular health and cognitive functions - both areas that deserve special attention in old age.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Protein<\/h3>\n

As we age, the body needs more rather than less protein - 1.0 to 1.5 g per kilogram of body weight is recommended instead of the usual 0.8 g to counteract muscle loss.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n