Estimating Average Vitamin A Requirements in Indonesian and American Women

Development of 13C-Retinol Isotope Dilution Techniques

Women of reproductive age had their vitamin A stores estimated by retinol isotope dilution and then were given vitamin A supplements near the US vitamin A RDA or placebo for 42(USA) or 60 (Indonesia) days, after which retinol isotope dilution was repeated and the change in vitamin A stores was determined in each group to estimate how much vitamin A is needed to maintain nutrient balance in these women.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Normal nutritional status (BMI 18.5-25)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Significant clinical illness