Dietary Reference Value

Dietary Reference Value

The Dietary Reference Value (DRV) is a term used to describe the recommended intake levels of nutrients for healthy individuals. These values are established by various organizations and are used as a guide to help individuals meet their nutritional needs.

Types of Dietary Reference Values

There are several types of Dietary Reference Values that are commonly used:

1. Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA): This value represents the average daily intake level of a nutrient that is sufficient to meet the requirements of nearly all healthy individuals.

2. Adequate Intake (AI): This value is used when there is insufficient scientific evidence to establish an RDA. It is an approximation of the nutrient intake that is assumed to be adequate for most individuals.

3. Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL): This value represents the highest level of daily nutrient intake that is unlikely to pose any risk of adverse health effects in almost all individuals.

4. Estimated Average Requirement (EAR): This value is used to assess the nutrient intake of populations and is the average daily intake level that is estimated to meet the requirements of half of the healthy individuals in a particular life stage and gender group.

Importance of Dietary Reference Values

Dietary Reference Values play a crucial role in promoting optimal health and preventing nutrient deficiencies or excesses. They provide a framework for individuals to plan their diets and ensure they are obtaining the necessary nutrients for their overall well-being.

By following the DRV guidelines, individuals can make informed choices about their food intake and maintain a balanced diet. These values also serve as a basis for the development of food labeling regulations and dietary guidelines by health authorities.

Examples of Dietary Reference Values

Here are some examples of Dietary Reference Values for commonly consumed nutrients:

- Calcium: RDA for adults aged 19-50 years is 1000 mg/day, AI for adults aged 51 years and older is 1200 mg/day.

- Vitamin C: RDA for adult men is 90 mg/day, RDA for adult women is 75 mg/day.

- Iron: RDA for adult men is 8 mg/day, RDA for adult women aged 19-50 years is 18 mg/day.

- Vitamin D: AI for adults aged 19-70 years is 600 IU/day, AI for adults aged 71 years and older is 800 IU/day.

References

1. World Health Organization. (2004). Vitamin and mineral requirements in human nutrition: report of a joint FAO/WHO expert consultation. Geneva: World Health Organization.

2. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. (2006). Dietary Reference Intakes: The Essential Guide to Nutrient Requirements. Washington, DC: National Academies Press.

See Also

- Nutrition - Healthy Eating - Food Labeling