Iron and folic acid intake in children of under 5 years of age in Uruguay: an analysis of the 2018 ENDIS cohort

Abstract

Objectives: estimate the intake of iron and folic acid and their adequacy to nutritional requirements in children aged 6 to 59 months in Uruguay.

Methodology: we recorded the food intake of a sample of 555 children. We used the PC-Side and Evindi software to obtain the energy and nutrient intake.

Results: 16% of children under 5 years old and 30% of children under 2 years old do not consume the necessary amount of iron. Consumption was lower in households with lower income levels and in those at risk of malnutrition or malnutrition.

5% of children under 5 years old do not meet their folic acid requirements, rising to 13.2% in children under 2 years of age, 11% in households with lower income levels, and 15% in children at risk of malnutrition or suffering from malnutrition.

It was estimated that the fortification of wheat flour with iron and folic acid (Law 18.071) covers 39% of the iron requirement and the entire folic acid requirement in children aged 6 to 59 months.

Conclusions: iron and folic acid deficiency primarily affects children under 2 years of age, those with poor nutritional status, and those from lower socioeconomic strata. Although the food typess included in Law 18.071 contribute to meeting iron and folic acid needs, their contribution is not sufficient, making it important to strengthen other public health measures.