WASHINGTONComments are now open for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. On Feb. 3, dietary supplement trade organization the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) submitted responses to the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee (DGAC) regarding multivitamins, calcium and vitamin D. In its comments, CRN asked DGAC to consider three questions with peer-reviewed research.
- Can a multivitamin/mineral (MVM) supplement provide a no calorie, low cost way to fill nutrient gaps when nutrient recommended intakes are not first met through the consumption of food?
- Is taking a calcium and vitamin D supplement an effective way to achieve nutrient adequacy within calorie limits when nutrient intake is not first met through food?
- Does a calcium and vitamin D supplement help support bone health in certain populations?
According to CRN, "Evidence supports the use of a MVM as an effective way to achieve nutrient adequacy when recommended nutrient intakes are not first met through food."
The comments also reminded DGAC of its previous assertion that calcium and vitamin D are a public health concern because of inadequate intake. "Government research demonstrates that many Americans continue to fall short of their nutrient requirements for calcium and vitamin D when consumed from food and beverages, including fortified foods," CRN wrote in its submission. Consequently, the organization emphasized calcium and vitamin D supplementation's role in proper bone health for Americans.
To read or submit comments regarding the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, visit the Department's website.