Micronutrient Intake : Study
A study published in Lancet Global Health highlighted the global inadequacy of micronutrient intake, particularly for iodine, vitamin E (tocopherol), calcium, iron, riboflavin (vitamin B2), and folate (vitamin B9) across different regions and age groups.
- As the first global estimate based on dietary intake data, it underscores the need for nutritional interventions such as dietary modifications, biofortification, fortification, and supplementation.
Key Findings of the Study:
Global Findings :
- Iodine, Vitamin E, Calcium Over 5 billion people worldwide have inadequate intakes.
- Iron, Riboflavin, Folate, Vitamin C More than 4 billion people have insufficient intakes.
- Iodine, Vitamin B12, Iron, Selenium, Calcium, Riboflavin, Folate Women have higher inadequacies.
- Magnesium, Vitamin B6, Zinc, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Thiamin, Niacin Men have higher inadequacies.
India-Specific Findings:
- Riboflavin, Folate, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12 India experiences high levels of inadequacies in these nutrients
Micronutrients:
- Micronutrients include vitamins and minerals required by the body in very small amounts. E.g., Iron, Vitamin A, Iodine etc.
- They are crucial for producing enzymes, hormones, and other substances necessary for normal growth and development.
