Relationship between cigarette smoking and nutrient intakes and blood status indices of older people living in the UK: further analysis of data from the National Diet and Nutrition Survey of people aged 65 years and over, 1994/95

Abstract

Compared with abstinence and heavy drinking, light to moderate alcohol consumption in older people is associated with higher intakes of certain nutrients, and higher blood concentrations (independent of intake) of some micronutrient status indices, including antioxidants. The explanation for the latter associations remains unclear and further investigation is recommended. Heavier alcohol consumption is associated with both beneficial and adverse effects with respect to nutrient intakes and health status.