Which group is most likely to need certain dietary supplements?

Question

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

Age-related declines in nutrient absorption (especially vitamin B12, vitamin D, and calcium) make elderly individuals the group most likely to need certain dietary supplements.

1) Relevant knowledge points and concepts
- Gastrointestinal changes with aging (atrophic gastritis, reduced gastric acid) impair absorption of vitamin B12 and some minerals. Reduced intrinsic factor production leads to B12 malabsorption.
- Decreased skin synthesis of cholecalciferol (vitamin D) and reduced renal conversion to active vitamin D lower vitamin D status in older adults, increasing need for supplementation.
- Lower dietary intake (poor appetite, dental problems), medication interactions (PPIs, metformin), and chronic disease increase risk of deficiencies.
- Consequences include anemia (B12/folate/iron), osteopenia/osteoporosis (calcium + vitamin D deficiency), and sarcopenia (insufficient protein and vitamin D).

2) Step-by-step reasoning
- Identify group at higher physiological risk of deficiency: elderly have documented declines in absorption and synthesis pathways.
- Match common supplement needs: B12 (due to low intrinsic factor/acid), vitamin D and calcium (due to reduced synthesis/absorption), sometimes zinc, folate, or protein supplements.
- Consider modifiers: medications and chronic conditions common in older adults further increase need.

3) (No numerical calculations required.)

4) Why the correct answer is correct
Elderly individuals often cannot obtain or absorb adequate amounts of specific micronutrients even with normal intake; clinical guidelines frequently recommend screening and supplementing B12, vitamin D, and calcium in older adults. The physiological and clinical evidence directly supports their higher likelihood of needing supplements.

5) Why the other options are incorrect
- a. Athletes with high caloric intake may need targeted supplements (iron, electrolytes), but high caloric/varied diets often meet micronutrient needs; supplementation is situational, not generally required.
- c. Teenagers with high metabolism typically obtain needed nutrients from normal diets and growth-related appetite; deficiencies are less common.
- d. Individuals with balanced diets and active lifestyles generally meet nutrient requirements through food and don’t usually need supplements.

Conclusion: The best choice is b. Elderly individuals with limited nutrient absorption, which matches the provided correct answer.

Which group is most likely to need certain dietary supplements?Single choice

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