Micronutrient deficiencies. Hohenheim Consensus Conference.
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.


METHODS
Experts from a range of relevant disciplines received and considered a series of questions related to aspects of the topic.


METHODS
The experts met and discussed the questions and arrived at a consensus.


CONCLUSIONS
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.
Biesalski
Hans K
HK
Dept. of Biological Chemistry and Nutrition, University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstr. 12, 70593, Stuttgart, Germany.
Brummer
Robert-J
RJ
König
Jürgen
J
O'Connell
Maria A
MA
Ovesen
Lars
L
Rechkemmer
Gerhard
G
Stos
Katarzyna
K
Thurnham
David I
DI
D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology; D001361:Avitaminosis / Q000517:prevention & control*; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D018977:Micronutrients / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000172:deficiency*; D009748:Nutrition Disorders / Q000517:prevention & control*; D009751:Nutritional Requirements; D011322:Primary Prevention; D012307:Risk Factors; D014815:Vitamins / Q000008:administration & dosage
D018977:Micronutrients; D014815:Vitamins