A new study conducted by researchers from University College London (UCL) reveals that older socially isolated adults in the UK are significantly more prone to experiencing deficiencies in essential micronutrients, including vitamin C and vitamin B6, which could elevate their risk of health complications. The research, detailed in the journal Age and Ageing, analysed data from 3,713 UK residents aged 50 and above who had provided comprehensive dietary information through a questionnaire on two distinct days.
The findings highlighted a concerning trend among the more socially isolated: they were generally consuming below the recommended levels of five critical micronutrients — magnesium, potassium, vitamin C, folate, and vitamin B6. These nutrients, typically found in fruits, vegetables, legumes (such as peas, beans, and lentils), and fish, suggest a dietary pattern lacking in these vital food groups.
Professor Andrew Steptoe, from UCL’s Behavioural Science & Health department and the study’s lead author, explained the significance of these findings by pointing out that individuals who are more socially isolated are at a higher risk of not obtaining sufficient micronutrients in their diet. This nutritional deficiency is particularly critical as it increases susceptibility to health issues as people age. He proposed that social isolation might limit access to varied dietary choices since isolated individuals may not receive as much information about healthy eating or encouragement to diversify their diet, often sticking to familiar but limited nutritional patterns.
Dr Camille Lassale, co-author and researcher at ISGlobal in Barcelona, emphasised the importance of a varied diet that includes ample plant-based foods and fish to maintain physical and mental health. Dr Lassale also called for enhanced accessibility to these nutritious foods and advocated for promoting their consumption, especially among older adults living alone or isolated.
Utilising data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA), which collects a broad range of information from a representative sample of the English population every two years, the study assessed participants’ levels of social isolation. This was determined based on factors such as living alone, frequency of contact with friends and relatives outside the household, and participation in clubs or organisations.
The research demonstrated a direct correlation between the degree of social isolation and the likelihood of insufficient intake of five out of nine essential micronutrients two years later. This intake estimation was derived from the dietary information provided in the questionnaire. Despite adjusting for various influencing factors like age, gender, education, marital status, food insecurity, and impaired daily living, the correlation persisted.
Remarkably, a substantial portion of the study’s participants were found to have nutrient intakes below recommended levels. For instance, half of the respondents were deficient in potassium, a third lacked sufficient magnesium, a quarter were not consuming enough calcium, and a sixth had inadequate iron intake. The roles of these nutrients are vital, with magnesium and potassium supporting bone health and deficiencies in folate and vitamin B6 being linked to increased risks of cardiovascular diseases and cognitive decline. Vitamin C, known for its multiple health benefits, is crucial for maintaining healthy bones, cells, and skin.
Interestingly, the study also noted that while social isolation was associated with poor micronutrient intake, loneliness (the emotional state of feeling alone) did not have the same impact. This suggests that the adverse effects on dietary habits may be more closely related to the practical aspects of isolation, such as limited social interactions that could offer information about maintaining a varied and healthy diet rather than the emotional experience of loneliness. Notably, the researchers found no significant link between social isolation and the likelihood of inadequate calcium, iron, and vitamin B12 intake primarily sourced from meat, eggs, and dairy. This finding underscores the complex relationship between social habits, dietary practices, and nutritional health among older adults.
More information: Andrew Steptoe et al, Social isolation, loneliness, and low dietary micronutrient intake among older people in England, Age and Ageing. DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afae223
Journal information: Age and Ageing Provided by University College London
