Abstract:

There is growing interest in the potential for folic acid fortification in the Americas and recognition of the high prevalence of low plasma vitamin B₁₂ concentrations reported in various studies. This review summarized available data on plasma vi- tamin B₁₂ and folate concentrations in the Americas. At least 40% of individuals had deficient or marginal plasma vitamin B₁₂ concentrations in almost all locations and across age groups. Low plasma folate concentrations were less common. It is hypothesized that vitamin B₁₂ deficiency may result from a low intake of animal source foods, while a higher intake of refined flour may result in low plasma folate.

Keywords: FOLATE; VITAMIN B 12; LATIN AMERICA; © 2004 INTERNATIONAL LIFE SCIENCES INSTITUTE

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1301/nr.2004.jun.S29-S33

Affiliations: 1: Western Human NutritionResearch Center and Program in International Nutrition, University of California, Davis, CA 95616