In the National Nutrition Survey II (NVS II, 2008), the dietary behavior of the population was investigated for Germany
and showed how this affects the average daily nutrient intake of macronutrients and micronutrients (vital substances).
The intake recommendations (D-A-CH reference values) of the German Nutrition Society (DGE) are used as the basis for assessing nutrient supply. A comparison of the nutrient intake determined in the NVS II with the recommendations of the DGE shows for which micronutrients (vital substances) there is a frequent undersupply in Germany.
Regarding the supply situation, it can be stated:
- 79% of men and 86% of women do not reach the recommended daily intake of folic acid.
- Both older people aged 65 and over, the proportions are the highest. Here, 89% of men and 91% of women do not take the recommended intake.
- The worst supplied men lack 261 µg folic acid. This corresponds to a daily shortfall of 65% of the recommended intake.
- The worst supplied women lack 277 µg folic acid. This corresponds to a daily shortfall of 69% of the recommended intake.
- Schwangerehaben a daily excess requirement of 200 µg folic acid compared to non-pregnant women. Accordingly, the worst supplied pregnant women have a shortfall of 477 µg folic acid per day.
- Breastfeeding women have a daily excess requirement of 200 µg folic acid compared to non-breastfeeding women. Accordingly, the worst supplied breastfeeding women have a shortfall of 477 µg folic acid per day.
Since the intake recommendations of the DGE are based on the needs of healthy and normal-weight people, an individual additional requirement (eg due todiet, stimulant consumption, long-term medication, etc.) may be above the intake recommendations of the DGE.
