Nutritional risks in the Spanish population: results of the eVe study.

Abstract

To determine the vitamin status of different groups within the Spanish population. Pooled analysis of cross-sectional population nutritional regional studies and meta-analysis of smaller studies in population subgroups performed in Spain between 1990 and 1999. In total, 10 208 participants in eight random population studies aged 25-60 y and participants in 76 studies included in the meta-analysis. The data from different nutritional studies performed on sample populations representative of eight regions of Spain were integrated into a single database. A meta-analysis was also performed on the results of nutritional studies on the Spanish population involving subjects of other ages and status (all published between 1990 and 1999). The mean intakes observed after the integration of the eight regional studies, and in the meta-analysis study, were similar to those recommended, although a considerable percentage of people had insufficient intakes. Further studies are required, but the vitamin status of the Spanish population clearly shows room for improvement, especially with respect to vitamins B(2), B(6), A, E, D and folates. Bearing in mind that adequate vitamin intakes are associated with protection from a range of diseases, steps should be taken to correct the imbalances recorded.