Micronutrient Status in Sri Lanka: A Review.

Hansani Abeywickrama,Yu Koyama,Yuta Mitobe,Kazuki Ohashi,Mieko Uchiyama,Utako Shimizu,Yuka Iwasa,Etsuko Yamada

doi:10.3390/nu10111583

Hansani Abeywickrama, Yu Koyama + Show 6 more

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https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10111583

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Abstract

Micronutrients include vitamins, minerals and, trace elements that are required in minute quantities but play a vital role in normal human growth, development and physiological functioning. Micronutrient deficiencies, also known as hidden hunger, are a global issue, with particularly high prevalence rates in developing countries. Currently, Sri Lanka is experiencing the double burden of over- and undernutrition. This review describes the micronutrient status of Sri Lanka based on results of national surveys and related articles published from 2000. The available data suggest a higher prevalence of iron, zinc, calcium, folate, and vitamin A deficiencies. The prevalence of iodine deficiency has declined gradually following the implementation of a universal salt iodization program. Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia and low red blood cell indices. Females are more vulnerable to micronutrient deficiencies than males. The coexistence of multiple micronutrient deficiencies and concurrent macro- and micronutrient deficiencies is common. Studies have shown an association between micronutrient deficiencies and different demographic, socioeconomic, and dietary factors. Therefore, there is a need for comprehensive studies, nutritional policies, and nationwide intervention programs in Sri Lanka to improve the micronutrient status of the population.

Highlights

Vitamins (A, B, C, D, E, and K), minerals and trace elements are referred to as micronutrients because they are required in minute quantities, in contrast with macronutrients, which include energy-delivering substances such as carbohydrate, fat, and protein.Micronutrients play a vital role in normal human growth and development, physiological functioning, and maintenance of health [1]
25-hydroxyvitamin D and serum PTH, which was used as a surrogate marker of serum ionic calcium [10]. These findings suggest that serum calcium levels increase with increasing vitamin
Determining the prevalence of Micronutrient deficiencies (MND) among different population groups in Sri Lanka is hampered by the lack of nationally representative data

Summary

Introduction

Vitamins (A, B, C, D, E, and K), minerals (sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, fluoride, iron, and zinc) and trace elements (iodine, copper, selenium, manganese, chromium, and molybdenum) are referred to as micronutrients because they are required in minute quantities, in contrast with macronutrients, which include energy-delivering substances such as carbohydrate, fat, and protein. Micronutrients play a vital role in normal human growth and development, physiological functioning, and maintenance of health [1]. A diet inadequate in micronutrients can result in variety of negative health consequences, including decreased immunity, impaired cognitive performance, stunted growth, and increased morbidity and mortality. Micronutrient deficiencies (MND) are progressive, and cannot be identified clinically until they are in their late stages; MND are referred to as a “hidden hunger” [2]

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