Micronutrient deficiencies. Hohenheim Consensus Conference

H.K. Biesalski*, R.J.M. Brummer, J. Konig, M.A. O'Connell, L. Ovesen, G. Rechkemmer, K. Stos, D.I. Thurnham

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

Micronutrient deficiencies. Hohenheim Consensus Conference.

Biesalski HK, Brummer RJ, Konig J, O'Connell MA, Ovesen L, Rechkemmer G, Stos K, Thurnham DI.

Dept. of Biological Chemistry and Nutrition, University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstr. 12, 70593, Stuttgart, Germany.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to consider the risk of micronutrient deficiencies and approaches for intervention, and to summarize existing knowledge and identify areas of ignorance. DESIGN: Experts from a range of relevant disciplines received and considered a series of questions related to aspects of the topic. INTERVENTION: The experts met and discussed the questions and arrived at a consensus. CONCLUSION: Though healthy balanced diet is available for the general European population, a few defined groups are at risk of micronutrient deficiencies. In addition, the intake of specific micronutrients such as iron, folic acid, vitamin D and vitamin B12 are often marginal. To overcome these deficiencies, either selected micronutrients or a mixture of different micronutrients might be recommended. However, to define and detect micronutrient deficiencies, specific biomarkers are only available for a few micronutrients (e. g. vitamin D, folic acid, vitamin C, iron). The definition of a risk group, based on scientific data, might be an appropriate way to justify intervention with supplements
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)353-363
Number of pages10
JournalEuropean Journal of Nutrition
Volume42
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2003

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