Analysis of the Dietary Intakes of Canadian Adults

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess intakes of energy, macronutrients and vitamin and minerals in a nationally representative sample of Canadian adults in comparison with Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs). The DRI cut‐point method and the probability approach (specifically for iron in women) were used to determine the adequacy of dietary intakes. Responses were obtained from 1,833 individuals (aged 18 and older) who completed a web‐based Canadian Diet History Questionnaire in the spring of 2012, a validated food frequency questionnaire estimating dietary intakes over the past month. The average energy intake was 1644 + 3126Kcal/day, with 49% of total energy from carbohydrates, 33% from total fat and 16% from protein. Energy intakes were lower in females (1386kcal/day) compared to males (1879kcal/day) (p<0.05). Compared to the DRIs, a large proportion of respondents had inadequate intakes of folate (62%), magnesium (58%), potassium (91%), calcium (78%) and dietary fibre (89%). In contrast, most had adequate intakes of phosphorus, zinc, vitamin C, vitamin A, riboflavin and vitamin B12. Males generally had adequate intakes of thiamin (72%), vitamin B6 (65%) and niacin (93%). In comparison, the proportion of females with adequate intake of these nutrients was lower. As well, females aged 50 years and younger had a lower intake of iron compared with those aged older than 50 years (87% vs. 34%). Although, Canadians in general have intakes within acceptable ranges based on DRI recommendations, strategies are required to optimize the adequacy of Canadian's dietary intakes and to communicate information on a balanced diet.Funding Sources: UofT McHenry Chair research fund (ML); Dairy Farmers of Canada (ML); CIHR Public Health Policy Fellowship (MA).