A workshop entitled "research on nutrition and ageing" organised by the European Commission, took place in Brussels on 29 and 30 November.
The event comprised presentations of three European research projects funded by the EU.
LIPIDIET examines how specific dietary lipids could prevent Alzheimer’s disease
OPTIFORD investigates whether a better supply of dietary vitamin D would reduce osteoporosis
CROWNALIFE assesses the possibilities for functional foods to fulfil the specific needs of the elderly.
The proportion of elderly people in Europe is currently around 20% and this is predicted to increase to 25% by 2020 (WHO 2002). The most dramatic demographic changes are in the oldest age group (80 years and over). In Europe, it is estimated that the number of people over 80 years will grow from 21.4 million in 2000 to 35 million in 2025. A number of factors, including nutrition, have contributed to this increase in life expectancy.
As a target group for specialised foods, the elderly have received little attention compared to other population groups. Foods designed to satisfy their nutritional needs should be nutrient-dense familiar foods, available in convenient, easy-to-open packaging and reasonably priced.
The Commission conference looked at nutrition and ageing projects funded through the 5th and 6th Framework research programmes and identified areas for future research.
Website for EU funded food research (CORDIS)
European Commission’s website on research on food and nutrition.
Commission press release:
European research shows how diet can improve health in the elderly.
Related EPHA article on the importance of good diet and exercise for older people.
