Nutrition and aging in Africa: transitional changes

Authors

Alexander RP Walker, South African Institute For Medical Research
Karen E. Charlton, University of Cape TownFollow

RIS ID

78481

Publication Details

Walker, A. RP. & Charlton, K. E. 2001, 'Nutrition and aging in Africa: transitional changes', Nutrition Today, vol. 36, no. 1, pp. 37-42.

Abstract

Although the proportion of elderly blacks is much smaller than that of white populations in Africa, it is increasing. Since the vast majority of blacks in Africa are in poor economic circumstances, questions arise as to how well they manage, particularly regarding their eating habits and nutritional state. On the one hand, the limited information available indicates major shortfalls compared to international dietary allowances of nutrients. Yet, outwardly, elderly Africans appear to cope better than would be expected. Unfortunately, no cross-sectional nor prospective studies have been undertaken on representative groups of African elderly. In view of the increasing poverty of the populations of most African countries, it would be of value to learn from nutritional and clinical studies what are minimum food intakes that are still consistent with everyday good health.