Comparison of vitamin A, C, B6, B12 and Folic Acid intakes in two areas of Rasht and Qazvin

Abstract

Background: An adequate vitamin intake is necessary for proper body function. Objective: To determine vitamin (A, C, B6, B12 and folic acid) intakes among people from two areas of Rasht and Qazvin. Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on 1100 cases over 30 years in Rasht and Qazvin in 2003. Dietary assessment was performed using questionnaire. Statistical analysis was carried out using Chi-square test. Findings: Over 70% of people in Rasht and more than 60% in Qazvin received less than 1000 IU vitamin A. Two percent of cases in Rasht and less than 10% in Qazvin didn’t receive adequate vitamin C. However, three quarter of subjects in Rasht received vitamin C intake at level higher than recommended intake. Regarding vitamins B6 and B12, no deficiency was observed. In these two cities, only 20% of men and less than 10% of the women received adequate folic acid. Conclusion: Most people particularly women received lower levels of both vitamin A and folic acid compared to recommended intakes.