Do older adults require more calories than younger adults?
It's a common misconception that all older adults require fewer calories, but factors like metabolism and physical activity make it a nuanced topic. For example, after age 50, you typically need about 200 fewer calories per day than you did in your younger years to maintain the same weight. The truth is that while total calorie needs decrease, older adults still need the same—or even more—of many essential nutrients. Therefore, the focus must shift to nutrient-dense foods rather than simply cutting calories. This article explores why **do older adults require more calories than younger adults** is the wrong question to ask and how to manage changing nutritional needs effectively.