Variation in Micronutrient Intake and Adequacy by Race, Ethnicity, and Poverty-to-Income Ratio in United States Children and Adults: A Descriptive Analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

BACKGROUND

Identifying disparities in micronutrient intake and adequacy by race, ethnicity, and income is essential for promoting health equity, as it reveals gaps in dietary patterns that disproportionately affect marginalized groups.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to describe micronutrient adequacy in a representative sample of United States children and adults stratified by race and ethnicity, poverty-to-income ratio (PIR), age, and gender. We hypothesized that micronutrient adequacy would differ by race and ethnicity and PIR within the same age and gender group.

METHODS

This was a descriptive analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2011‒2020). Participants were stratified by gender and age (2‒18, 19‒64, and 65+ y). Five racial and ethnic groups were included (Mexican American/Hispanics, non-Hispanic Whites, non-Hispanic Blacks, non-Hispanic Asians, and other race/multiracial). PIR was classified as <1.3 (low income), 1.3‒1.85 (middle income), and >1.85 (high income). The percentage of the population below the Estimated Average Requirement or above the Adequate Intake was calculated.

RESULTS

Across all age groups and within each race and ethnicity, those with low and middle income used fewer dietary supplements and had lower micronutrient adequacy than those with high income. Income-based differences in micronutrient adequacy were more prevalent within non-Hispanic Whites and non-Hispanic Asians than other races and ethnicities. Race and ethnicity differences in micronutrient adequacy were more prevalent in those with high income. Non-Hispanic Blacks had the most micronutrient inadequacies across all incomes, and the lowest dietary supplement use among those in the low-income group.

CONCLUSIONS

Disparities in micronutrient adequacy exist across race and ethnicity and incomes of all ages, including children. These findings suggest that targeted interventions based on demographic factors could reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve long-term health outcomes.