A liquid nutrient mixture especially rich in vitamin B1 was given for 8 weeks to 10 nursing home residents with poor nutritional status. The intake of trace minerals (zinc and copper) and water-soluble vitamins (B1 and B2) by these subjects had been much less than the RDA levels, although the energy intake was relatively adequate. Three of the 10 subjects showed hypoalbuminemia (serum albumin less than 3.5mg/dl), and six showed a low serum vitamin B1 level (less than 28ng/ml).
The administration of the supplement did not affect the intake of the diet, but provided an increased intake of various nutrients, especially the water-soluble vitamins. The serum vitamin Bi level was increased to the standard level in all the 10 subjects after 4 weeks of administration. The three subjects with hypoalbuminemia showed an increased serum albumin concentration after 8 weeks. A body weight gain was also observed up to 8 weeks which disappeared when the administration was stopped. The administration of a supplement to provide energy, protein and water-soluble vitamins may be useful for improving the condition of elderly people with poor nutritional status.
