Brief communication: The prevalence of high intake of vitamin E from the use of supplements among U.S. adults.
BACKGROUND
People who consume at least 400 IU of vitamin E per day from supplements may be at slightly increased risk for premature mortality.


OBJECTIVE
To estimate the percentage of U.S. adults age 20 years or older who consume at least 400 IU of vitamin E per day through the use of vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements.


METHODS
Cross-sectional analysis.


METHODS
The 1999-2000 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.


METHODS
Representative sample of the civilian, noninstitutionalized U.S. population.


METHODS
Participants answered questions about the use of vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements.


RESULTS
Among 4609 adults, 11.3% (95% CI, 9.7% to 13.1%) consumed at least 400 IU of vitamin E per day from supplements. Such intake increased with age, was about equal for men and women, and was more common among white persons (14.1%; CI, 11.9% to 16.7%) than African-American (3.7% [CI, 2.6% to 5.2%]) or Mexican-American persons (3.9% [CI, 2.8% to 5.4%]). The median dietary intake of vitamin E was 8.8 IU per day.


CONCLUSIONS
Information about vitamin E intake was self-reported.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of vitamin E supplements in dosages of at least 400 IU per day is common among U.S. adults.
Ford
Earl S
ES
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia 30341, USA.
Ajani
Umed A
UA
Mokdad
Ali H
AH
D000328:Adult; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D019587:Dietary Supplements / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009749:Nutrition Surveys; D014481:United States; D014810:Vitamin E / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D024502:alpha-Tocopherol / Q000097:blood; D024504:gamma-Tocopherol / Q000097:blood
D014810:Vitamin E; D024504:gamma-Tocopherol; D024502:alpha-Tocopherol