New reference intake standards for zinc and vitamin B6 published

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The German Nutrition Society has published new reference intake standards for zinc and vitamin B6. The rules take into account how much of these nutrients children and adults should receive daily.

The innovation in the values ​​is that the recommended intake of Zn in adults is indicated depending on the level of phytate. High intake of the substance, especially in legumes and whole grains, can reduce the bioavailability of zinc by up to 45%. In particular, a complete diet with rules has an average intake of phytic acid, and the daily norm of the element for women is 8 mg, and for men – 14 mg.

The recommended norm of vitamin B6 now depends on pyridoxal-5-phosphate. Until now, scientists believed that the need for the active substance in a normal mixed diet depends on protein intake. Current observations show that this biomarker is the main form of vitamin B6 storage in the muscles. In connection with which the updated value is 1.4 mg per day for women and 1.6 mg for men.

It is noted that the use of reference values ​​ensures vital physical and mental functions, prevents diseases associated with a deficiency of these substances. This also includes the prevention of chronic diseases associated with nutrition. The new standards contribute to the development and improvement of working capacity, and to maintaining human health throughout life, according to a statement from the German Nutrition Society.