Which age group is most likely to have lower dietary intake of essential vitamins?

Older adults are often the age group most likely to experience lower dietary intake of essential vitamins due to several interrelated factors. As people age, physiological changes can affect their body's ability to absorb nutrients, leading to deficiencies in vitamins and minerals critical for maintaining health. Additionally, older adults may face challenges such as diminished appetite, fixed incomes limiting food variety, and health conditions that affect dietary choices or the ability to prepare nutritious meals.

The reliance on medication may also impact nutrient absorption or increase the need for certain vitamins, further complicating their dietary intake. Consequently, important vitamins such as B12, D, and others may be consumed in insufficient amounts, making this demographic particularly vulnerable to deficiencies. Therefore, it is critical for those working with older adults to consider nutritional needs and encourage dietary modifications or supplementation when necessary to ensure adequate vitamin intake.