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- Title
Vitamin D Intake in Slovenian Adolescents, Adults, and the Elderly Population.
- Authors
Hribar, Maša; Hristov, Hristo; Lavriša, Živa; Koroušić Seljak, Barbara; Gregorič, Matej; Blaznik, Urška; Žmitek, Katja; Pravst, Igor
- Abstract
Vitamin D is involved in calcium and phosphorus metabolism, and is vital for numerous bodily functions. In the absence of sufficient UV-B light-induced skin biosynthesis, dietary intake becomes the most important source of vitamin D. In the absence of biosynthesis, the recommended dietary vitamin D intake is 10–20 µg/day. Major contributors to dietary vitamin D intake are the few foods naturally containing vitamin D (i.e., fish), enriched foods, and supplements. The present study aimed to estimate the vitamin D intake in Slovenia, to identify food groups that notably contribute to vitamin D intake, and to predict the effects of hypothetical mandatory milk fortification. This study was conducted using data collected by the national cross-sectional food consumption survey (SI.Menu) in adolescents (n = 468; 10–17 years), adults (n = 364; 18–64 years), and the elderly (n = 416; 65–74 years). Data collection was carried out between March 2017 and April 2018 using the EU Menu Methodology, which included two 24-h recalls, and a food propensity questionnaire. Very low vitamin D intakes were found; many did not even meet the threshold for very low vitamin D intake (2.5 µg/day). Mean daily vitamin D intake was 2.7, 2.9, and 2.5 µg in adolescents, adults, and the elderly, respectively. Daily energy intake was found to be a significant predictor of vitamin D intake in all population groups. In adolescents and adults, sex was also found to be a significant predictor, with higher vitamin D intake in males. The study results explained the previously reported high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in Slovenia. An efficient policy approach is required to address the risk of vitamin D deficiency, particularly in vulnerable populations.
- Subjects
SLOVENIA; FOOD consumption; SLOVENES; CROSS-sectional method; VITAMIN D; SURVEYS; QUESTIONNAIRES; VITAMIN D deficiency
- Publication
Nutrients, 2021, Vol 13, Issue 10, p3528
- ISSN
2072-6643
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.3390/nu13103528