The purpose of the Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) standards is to provide a set of guidelines and reference values for nutrient intake that can be used to promote and maintain optimal health in different population groups. The DRIs were developed by the Food and Nutrition Board of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine in the United States.
The DRI standards encompass a range of nutrient reference values, including:
1. Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA): The RDA represents the average daily intake level of a nutrient that is sufficient to meet the nutrient requirements of nearly all (97-98%) healthy individuals in a specific life stage and gender group. It is the most widely recognized DRI value and is used to set nutrient intake goals for individuals.
2. Adequate Intake (AI): The AI is used when there is insufficient scientific evidence to establish an RDA. It represents an estimate of nutrient intake that is likely to be adequate for most individuals in a specific population group.
3. Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL): The UL represents the highest level of daily nutrient intake that is unlikely to pose risks of adverse health effects in almost all individuals. It helps establish an upper limit to prevent potential nutrient toxicities.
4. Estimated Average Requirement (EAR): The EAR represents the average daily intake level of a nutrient that is estimated to meet the nutrient requirements of 50% of healthy individuals in a specific life stage and gender group. It serves as a reference value for determining nutrient adequacy in populations.
The DRIs provide a comprehensive framework for assessing and planning nutrient intake for individuals and population groups. They take into account various factors such as age, sex, life stage, and physiological conditions. The DRI standards serve as a valuable tool for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and individuals to promote and maintain optimal nutrition and overall health.