Marginal vitamin and mineral intakes of young adults: the Bogalusa Heart Study
Zive, M.M.; Nicklas, T.A.; Busch, E.C.; Myers, L.; Berenson, G.S.
Journal of Adolescent Health Official Publication of the Society for Adolescent Medicine 19(1): 39-47
1996
ISSN/ISBN: 1054-139X PMID: 8842859 DOI: 10.1016/1054-139x(96)00022-5Document Number: 313963
To determine reported vitamin and mineral intakes, vitamin supplement use, and food consumption patterns of young adults. Twenty-four-hour dietary recalls were collected from 1988-1991 on a cross-sectional sample of 504 young adults in Bogalusa, Louisiana, between the ages of 19 and 28 years (58% female; 70% white). Reported vitamin and mineral intake data were analyzed for race and gender differences. Descriptive and inferential statistics were calculated where appropriate. Food sources of selected vitamins and minerals were also examined. Reported intakes of vitamins A, B6, E, D, and C, folacin, magnesium, iron, zinc, and calcium were most likely to be inadequate compared with the Recommended dietary Allowances (RDA); with more females than males reported nutrient intakes less than two thirds of the RDA. Approximately 10% of the population reported taking a vitamin/mineral supplement over the 24-h survey period. Food source data indicated that breads and grains, milk, vegetables and soups, fruits, and beef were the primary contributors of the selected vitamins and minerals. Public health organizations and dietitians need to educate young adults on practical strategies for making wise food choices rich in nutrient content relative to energy value to ensure intakes that approach the RDAs.