Nutrition Assessment

Question 1

what guidelines are used when assessing nutrition intake of individuals?

Answer 1

EAR (Estimated Average Requirement), RDA (Recommended Dietary Allowance), and AI (Adequate Intake).

Question 2

what guidelines are used when planning intakes of healthy individuals?

Answer 2

RDA and AI.

EAR should not be used as an intake goal.

Question 3

What are the four main lab tests to test for Vitamin B12 deficiency?

Answer 3

· Holo-transcobalamin (Holo-TC or Holo-TCII)
· Methylmalonic Acid (MMA)
· Serum or plasma B12: often used to asses B12 status.
· MCV (mean corpuscular volume)

Question 4

What is the normal serum level for Vitamin D?

Answer 4

The IOM says over 20 ng/mL (50 nmol/L) but many experts suggest 30-40 ng/mL is optimal.

Question 5

What is the form of vitamin D circulating in the blood that is measured in a blood test?

Answer 5

25-hydroxyvitamin D

Question 6

Who is at risk of suboptimal Vitamin E intake?

Answer 6

People on a low fat diet are at increased risk for suboptimal intakes.

Question 7

What are symptoms of Riboflavin deficiency?

Answer 7

sores or cracks radiating from the corners of the mouth and inflammation and redness of the tongue.

Question 8

What is niacin deficiency called and what are the symptoms?

Answer 8

Pellegra- causes worsening progression of the four “Ds” – dermatitis, diarrhea, dementia, death.

Question 9

What is the lab test for folate status?

Answer 9

Homocysteine: High blood levels of homocysteine may indicate either deficiencies of folate (less like in vegans) or of vitamin B12 (likely in vegans if not supplementing).

· Folic acid can mask a B12 deficiency, particularly when large amounts of folic acid are taken.