Published Tuesday, March 4, 2008

NEW HAVEN, Conn.- The potential harmful effect of poor nutrition on physical function in older persons is not well understood. Scientists’ at Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Conn., conducted a study to determine whether low concentrations of specific micronutrients is associated with the decline in physical function (JAMA 2008; 299(3): 308-15).

The study included 698 participants, 65 years or older. Participants completed a baseline examination and 3-year follow-up assessments. Micronutrients measured included serum folate and vitamins B6, B12, D and E. Decline in physical function was defined as a loss of at least one point in the Short Physical Performance Battery during the follow-up. Results showed a low concentration of vitamin E was significantly associated with a decline in physical function, emphasized in participants 81 years and older.