Neglected micronutrients-considering a broader set of vitamins and minerals in public health nutrition programs worldwide: a narrative review

Abstract

Several essential vitamins and minerals whose deficiencies are associated with metabolic and functional disorders, including increased morbidity and mortality from both communicable and noncommunicable diseases, are not being adequately addressed by large-scale, public health nutrition programs worldwide. These neglected micronutrients include thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pyridoxine, vitamin B-12, vitamin D, vitamin K, calcium, selenium, and possibly others. In this narrative review, our objectives are to describe briefly the health implications of each of these deficiencies, summarize the limited available information on their epidemiology, and suggest possible approaches to address them. We conclude that more information, based on dietary assessments, nutritional biomarker surveys, and systematic surveillance of associated health conditions, is needed. Appropriate intervention programs, including changes in food systems to provide wider access to nutrient-rich foods, food fortification and targeted supplementation, should be implemented in settings where these deficiencies are confirmed.

Keywords: B vitamins; calcium; public health nutrition; riboflavin; selenium; thiamine; vitamin B-12; vitamin D; vitamin K; vitamin and mineral deficiency.