ARS | Publication request: FOLATE AND VITAMIN B-12 STATUS IN THE AMERICAS

Submitted to: Nutrition Reviews
Publication Type: Review Article
Publication Acceptance Date: June 1, 2004
Publication Date: June 1, 2004
Repository URL: http://www.idpas.org/pdf/2665FolateandVitaminB12.pdf
Citation: Allen, L.H. 2004. FOLATE AND VITAMIN B-12 STATUS IN THE AMERICAS. Nutrition Reviews. Vol. 62, No. 6.

Technical Abstract: There is growing interest in the potential for folic acid fortification in the Americas and recognition of the high prevalence of low plasma B-12 concentrations reported in various studies. This review summarized available data on plasma vitamin B-12 and folate concentrations in the Americas. At least 40% of individuals had deficient or marginal plasma vitamin B-12 concentrations in almost all locations and across age groups. Low plasma folate concentrations were less common. It is hypothesized that vitamin B-12 deficiency may result from a low intake of animal source foods, while a higher intake of refined flour may result in low plasma folate.