Reference Daily Intake

About: Reference Daily Intake is a research topic. Over the lifetime, 1564 publications have been published within this topic receiving 52794 citations.

The vitamin epidemic: what is the evidence for harm or value?

Abstract: Complementary medicines are a multibillion-dollar industry of which vitamin supplements are an important component. Most of the claims of benefit are not evidenced-based, and vitamin supplements may be associated with severe adverse reactions that are uncommon but can occur with high doses of some vitamins. There is no case for vitamin supplementation in normal, healthy, non-pregnant or lactating adults who are receiving the recommended daily intake of nutrients.

Current issues in the nutritional management of children with cystic fibrosis.

Abstract: Recent evidence suggests that malnutrition has a negative impact on pulmonary function in children with cystic fibrosis. In the past, dietary management has aimed at high energy low fat intake, but this has recently been shown to fall far short of the 120-150% of the recommended daily allowance for energy cystic fibrosis patients require. This paper outlines the current principles of nutritional management for children with cystic fibrosis. These include a high energy, high fat containing diet (within limits of individual tolerance); high carbohydrate intake; high salt intake; replacement of fat-soluble vitamins; appropriate use of pancreatic enzyme preparations; and supplemental feeding when indicated. It is vital that a nutrition education programme be established for each child and his or her family so that the emphasis shifts from treatment of malnutrition to prevention. The long-term aim must be to promote an independent, healthy lifestyle which incorporates good nutrition and other healthy pursuits such as exercise.

Long-term safety and efficacy of low-fat diets in children and adolescents.

Abstract: The safety and efficacy of low-fat diets in children and adolescents were evaluated through a systematic review of the current literature. Eight major studies were reviewed. The safety of the diets was judged by measures of growth and development and by meeting nutritional requirements. The efficacy of the diets was evaluated by their effect on the plasma levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. All studies except 1 showed that children and adolescents exhibited normal growth and development while on a low-fat diet. In 3 of the studies, nutritional requirements for calcium, zinc, phosphorous and vitamin E were below the recommended daily intake. In each of the 5 studies in which efficacy was determined, a significant decrease in the levels of total or LDL cholesterol was observed. Low-fat diets are generally safe and efficacious when performed under medical supervision.