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Nutritional status in Europe: methods and results
Ibrahim Elmadfa1, Heinz Freisling
1Institute of Nutritional Sciences, University of Vienna, Austria. ibrahim.elmadfa@univie.ac.at
Nutrition Reviews
|May 21, 2009
Summary
European diets show widespread nutritional inadequacies, including high fat intake and low fiber and vitamin D levels. Obesity prevalence varies significantly across 14 countries, highlighting the need for dietary interventions.
Area of Science:
- Public Health Nutrition
- Nutritional Epidemiology
Background:
- Nutritional status is a key determinant of public health in Europe.
- Understanding dietary patterns and nutritional inadequacies is crucial for developing effective health strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze and document the nutritional situation across 14 European countries.
- To identify common nutritional status indicators and their prevalence.
Main Methods:
- Data collection on nutritional status assessment indicators.
- Analysis of dietary intake and prevalence of obesity in adult populations.
Main Results:
- Significant variation in adult obesity prevalence (6%–31%) across the 14 countries.
- Mean adult fat intake exceeded recommendations (<30% of energy) in nearly all countries.
- Inadequate intake of dietary fiber, folate, and vitamin D, alongside excessive sodium intake, was prevalent.
Conclusions:
- European diets exhibit widespread nutritional deficiencies and excesses.
- Urgent need for targeted strategies to improve nutritional quality and public health outcomes in Europe.
