Do our energy needs change as we get older?
As we age, our calorie needs change.
Generally they decrease due to
Less muscle mass
Reduced metabolic rate
Hormonal fluctuations
Lower activity
Why do our calorie needs change as we age?
Our metabolism slows with age, mostly due to a natural decrease in muscle mass. This is because muscle mass is more metabolically active than fat. So when it reduces, our metabolism slows, and our calorie needs along with it
As we age, many people are less physical active. This also means we need fewer calories to maintain weight compared to when we were younger
Hormonal changes, like decreases in oestrogen and testosterone, can affect metabolism and body composition, often also influencing calorie needs. This is particularly so for women in menopause, while men may see changes with a decline in testosterone
Although calorie needs may decrease with age, meeting nutrient needs is more important than ever for health and well-being.
Prioritising nutrient-dense whole foods (as nature intended) helps ensure we get essential macro- (proteins, fat, carbs) and micro-nutrients (vitamins, minerals) while we manage our calorie intake