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Mapping low intake of micronutrients across Europe
G B M Mensink1, R Fletcher, M Gurinovic
1Department of Epidemiology and Health Monitoring, Robert Koch Institute, General-Pape-Strasse 64, DE-12101 Berlin, Germany.
The British Journal of Nutrition
|January 15, 2013
Summary
Micronutrient adequacy varies across Europe. While most European populations have sufficient vitamin intake, specific age groups may face risks of low mineral intake, highlighting the need for targeted nutritional strategies.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Public Health
- Dietary Assessment
Background:
- Assessing micronutrient adequacy across diverse European populations presents significant challenges.
- Understanding national dietary patterns is crucial for public health initiatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the prevalence of inadequate micronutrient intakes across eight European countries.
- To compare recent, nationally representative dietary survey data to identify at-risk populations.
Main Methods:
- Dietary intake data for 17 micronutrients (minerals and vitamins) were analyzed.
- Intake distributions were estimated for sex and age-specific groups, comparing against established reference values.
- The influence of dietary supplements and energy intake reporting was assessed.
Main Results:
- Most European populations show a low risk of inadequate vitamin intake from food, with the exception of vitamin D.
- Certain age groups exhibit a higher risk of low mineral intake (e.g., Calcium, Iron, Zinc).
- Country-specific variations in micronutrient adequacy were observed.
Conclusions:
- Current food-based vitamin intake appears adequate for most European populations, but vitamin D requires attention.
- Mineral intake inadequacy is a concern for specific demographic groups across Europe.
- This study provides essential data on European micronutrient status, informing public health nutrition policies.
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