Editing Human nutrition (section)

==== Elderly Nutrition: Iron ====
[[Iron deficiency]] is prevalent among the elderly and is a significant contributor to [[anemia]] in this population. As people age, the body's ability to balance iron storage and supply diminishes, leading to this condition. Multiple factors contribute to iron deficiency in older adults, including reduced food intake, frequent medication use, gastrointestinal malabsorption, and occult bleeding. [[Malabsorption]] can also result in excessive iron accumulation, further complicating the issue. Age-related anemia may also be linked to increased levels of [[hepcidin]], a hormone that reduces iron absorption in the intestine, leading to low iron levels.<ref name=":2">{{Cite journal | last1=Fairweather-Tait | first1=Susan J. | last2=Wawer | first2=Anna A. | last3=Gillings | first3=Rachel | last4=Jennings | first4=Amy | last5=Myint | first5=Phyo K. | date=March 2014 | title=Iron status in the elderly | journal=Mechanisms of Ageing and Development | language=en | volume=136-137 | pages=22–28 | doi=10.1016/j.mad.2013.11.005 | pmc=4157323 | pmid=24275120}}</ref>

The [[recommended daily intake]] of iron for both men and women is 8&nbsp;mg, with an upper limit of 45&nbsp;mg/day. According to the [[World Health Organization]], [[hemoglobin]] levels below 12&nbsp;g/dl in women and 13&nbsp;mg/dl in men indicate anemia.<ref name=":2" /> The [[NHANES]] III survey found that anemia affects 10.2% of women and 11% of men over 65, with prevalence increasing with age. Low iron levels not only decrease quality of life but are also associated with [[Depression (mood)|depression]], [[fatigue]], [[cognitive impairment]], and [[muscle wasting]].

Dietary components significantly influence iron absorption; tannins and [[polyphenol]]s in tea and coffee inhibit it, while [[Vitamin C]] enhances it. However, the interaction between iron and vitamin C can generate [[free radicals]], particularly in cases of [[iron overload]]. In iron deficiency, vitamin C aids absorption. [[Aspirin]] use in the elderly, often for cardiovascular disease, is linked to lower serum [[ferritin]] levels. Iron deficiency can be managed through an iron-rich diet or supplementation. Severe iron deficiency anemia may require oral iron therapy, typically with 300&nbsp;mg of [[ferrous sulfate]] containing 60&nbsp;mg of elemental iron. For those who do not respond to oral treatment, [[intravenous iron infusion]] or [[iron chelation]] for iron overload may be necessary.<ref name=":0" />