| Abstract: | As part of a long-term study of the effects of a dietary fibre supplementation programme on bowel function in a group of institutionalised elderly, various aspects of nutritional status were assessed before, and three, six and twelve months after introducing a fibre supplementation programme. Mean dietary intakes were satisfactory throughout the programme, although some individuals had intakes well below recommended levels for certain nutrients. The fibre supplementation programme not only improved bowel function, but also improved the nutrient density of the diet. Despite a slight increase in total energy intake, supplementation did not increase mean body weights in the group. Trace element status was not adversely affected by the supplementation programme. |
