Vitamin A and E intakes and plasma concentrations of retinol, beta-carotene, and alpha-tocopherol in men and women of the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging.
Antioxidants have been linked to protection against degenerative diseases associated with aging. Plasma concentrations were determined for and 7-d diet records collected from 200 women and 231 men aged 20-95 y who took part in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging. Men consumed more vitamin A from animal and less from vegetable sources than did women. These sex differences are reflected in plasma concentrations of retinol and beta-carotene. About 20% of subjects had vitamin A intakes less than recommended dietary allowances; however, no men and only two women had marginal plasma retinol (< 0.35 mumol/L) concentrations. Older people had higher plasma alpha-tocopherol, which correlated with total intake. Forty-two men and 35 women had plasma alpha-tocopherol concentrations that were considered marginal. Sex differences in sources of dietary and plasma vitamin A may have consequences in relation to aging and longevity. Apparent marginal intakes and plasma concentrations of vitamin E need to be further examined to determine effects on health status.
Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center, US Department of Agriculture, MD 20705.
J
J
Hallfrisch
D C
DC
Muller
V N
VN
Singh
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging / Q000378:metabolism; D002338:Carotenoids / Q000097:blood*; D004032:Diet; D005260:Female; D005527:Food, Fortified; D006801:Humans; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012737:Sex Factors; D012907:Smoking / Q000378:metabolism; D014801:Vitamin A / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000097:blood*; D014810:Vitamin E / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000097:blood*; D019207:beta Carotene
D019207:beta Carotene; D014801:Vitamin A; D014810:Vitamin E; D002338:Carotenoids