Medical Nutrition Market Size

Medical Nutrition Market Growth Projections and Opportunities

According to data from the United Nations in 2017, an estimated 962 million people aged 60 or above accounted for 13% of the global population. This population is growing at a rate of about 3% per year. In 2015, the Population Division of the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN-DESA) reported that almost 841 million individuals were aged 60 years or more. The projection is that the aged population will surpass 2 billion by 2050. As the population of older individuals continues to grow, there is an expected increase in spending on clinical nutrition.

The aging process brings about changes in the body's ability to absorb nutrients effectively. It becomes more challenging for older individuals to derive all the necessary nutrients from their regular diet. This difficulty is compounded by a common issue among the elderly – a decrease in appetite. As a result, seniors may not be getting adequate nutrition from their meals alone. To address this nutritional gap, many elderly individuals turn to supplementary nutrition to ensure they are receiving the essential nutrients their bodies need.

The elderly often face specific health challenges, including weakened bones, poor digestion, limited mobility, and chronic diseases. These conditions can contribute to a decline in overall health and well-being. To counteract these challenges and maintain optimal health, many seniors are increasingly relying on clinical nutrition support. This support may come in the form of specialized nutritional products designed to meet the unique needs of the aging population.

The United Nations reported in 2017 that there were approximately 962 million people aged 60 or above globally, constituting 13% of the total population. This demographic is growing at a rate of about 3% per year. In 2015, the UN-DESA reported that nearly 841 million individuals were aged 60 years or older. Projections indicate that the elderly population will surpass 2 billion by 2050. With the continual growth of the elderly population, there is an expected rise in the expenditure on clinical nutrition. As more people enter old age, the demand for nutritional support tailored to their specific needs is likely to increase, driving the clinical nutrition market.