Vitamin C Deficiency and Depletion in the United States: The Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1988 to 1994
Jeffrey S Hampl, PhD, RD,
Christopher A. Taylor, PhD, RD and
Carol S. Johnston, PhD, RD
Jeffrey S Hampl and Carol S. Johnston are with the Department of Nutrition, Arizona State University, Mesa. Christopher A. Taylor is with the Department of Nutritional Science, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater.
Correspondence: Requests for reprints should be sent to Jeffrey S Hampl, PhD, RD, Department of Nutrition, Arizona State University, 7001 E Williams Field Rd, Mesa, AZ 85212 (e-mail: Jeff.Hampl{at}asu.edu).
Objectives. We sought to determine prevalence rates of vitaminC deficiency and depletion in the United States.
Methods. We used data from the Third National Health and NutritionExamination Survey to assess intake of dietary, supplemental,and serum vitamin C.
Results. Mean intakes and serum levels of vitamin C were normal;however, vitamin C deficiency and depletion were common (occurringamong 5%17% and 13%23% of respondents, respectively).Smokers, those who did not use supplements, and non-HispanicBlack males had elevated risks of vitamin C deficiency, whileMexican Americans had lower risks.
Conclusions. Health professionals should recommend consumptionof vegetables and fruits rich in vitamin C and should recommendsupplementation for individuals at risk of vitamin C deficiency.
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