Micronutrient status in affluent societies

Abstract

Hidden hunger, referring to micronutrient deficiencies often not apparent through distinct clinical symptoms, is known to be highly prevalent in many developing countries: The prevalence of such inadequacies in developed countries has been less discussed, even though it is worryingly high for some micronutrients even in affluent countries such as the U.S. Therefore the aim of this chapter is to review and discuss the available data on micronutrient intakes and status in affluent societies in general and in sub populations that are particularly at risk. As discussing all nutrients systematically would exceed the scope of this article, this chapter concentrates on nutrients of particular concern for the general population or during specific periods in the life cycle. It concludes that in affluent countries, micronutrient inadequacies are widespread, and that intakes of vitamins E, D and A and folate are particularly critical, pointing out that improving nutrition could help alleviate the social and financial burden of nutrition deficiency diseases. Better knowledge concerning their nutritional status might encourage people to improve their diet and consequently their long-term health.