Food patterns that correlate to health and nutrition status in elderly Taiwanese

The objective of this study was to assess food intake patterns and their correlates in men and women in Taiwan 53 years of age or older. The study analyzed data generated in a cross-sectional population-based survey conducted in 1999. An in-home questionnaire interview elicited respondents' sociodemographic status, physical activity, and the consumption frequency of major food categories. Results showed that fish was the most frequently consumed protein-rich food, followed by meat and poultry. More than 50% of older adults consumed milk less than twice per week, whereas more than 40% consumed soy food more than 3 times per week. More than 90% of elderly Taiwanese consumed vegetables everyday or almost everyday, but only 60% consumed fruits everyday or almost everyday. Elderly Taiwanese men consumed meat, fish, seafood, eggs, and tea more often than did elderly women, whereas the opposite was true for dairy, fruits, and vegetables. Advanced aging was associated with a decline in the consumption frequency of most major food categories, a decrease in appetite status and an increase in digestive problems. Higher education and frequent daily physical exercise were associated with an increase in the consumption frequency of most food categories. Results suggest that age, sex, education, and physical activity impact food intake patterns and that risk of malnutrition does exist in some elderly in Taiwan.