New RDAs Posted

WASHINGTON--The Dietary Reference Intakes for Dietary Antioxidants and Related Compounds, released on April 11, offers new recommendations for vitamins E, C and selenium. The Institute of Medicine's Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) and the Standing Committee on the Scientific Evaluation of Dietary Reference Intakes began conducting the research for this report in Oct. 1997.

It was found that the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for vitamin E for men and women is the same, at 15 mg. The RDA for vitamin C was different between the sexes due to women's smaller lean body mass (75 mg for women, 90 mg for men and an additional 35 mg for smokers). Selenium levels were set at 55 mcg per day for both sexes.

In addition, Tolerable Upper Intake Levels for vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium were established. To remain at safe levels, a maximum of 2,000 mg of vitamin C is recommended; more than that may cause diarrhea. The report sets the limit of vitamin E at 1,000 mg (1,500 IU), and people consuming more may have a greater risk of stroke and uncontrolled bleeding. Selenium's upper intake level is set at 400 mcg, and adverse effects of larger doses could cause selenosis--a toxic reaction marked by hair loss and brittle nails.

"Although a large number of population studies reveal a link between a diet rich in foods containing antioxidants such as fruits and vegetables and a lower incidence of certain chronic diseases," said Norman Krinsky, chair of the Institute of Medicine, "we cannot conclude at this time that the antioxidants are the reason." For more information, visit www.nationalacademies.com.