Recommended Daily Allowances

Definition

Recommended Daily Allowances (RDA) are daily dietary intake levels of essential nutrients considered to be sufficient to meet the nutritional requirements of most healthy individuals.

Scientific / Technical Definition

The Recommended Daily Allowances (RDA) are established by the Food and Nutrition Board of the U.S. Institute of Medicine. These guidelines provide reference nutrient intake levels necessary to maintain health and prevent chronic illnesses. RDA values are based on scientific data encompassing various demographic factors such as age, gender, and life stages.

Benefits

• Helps to ensure adequate intake of essential nutrients.
• Supports overall health and well-being.
• Prevents nutrient deficiencies and associated diseases.
• Guides consumers to make informed dietary choices.

Examples

• Vitamin C: RDA of 90 mg per day for adult males, 75 mg for adult females.
• Calcium: RDA of 1,000 mg per day for adults.
• Iron: RDA of 8 mg per day for adult males, 18 mg for adult females.

Additional Information

• Importance: The RDA is important for helping individuals understand the amount of nutrients needed to support bodily functions and maintain optimal health across different stages of life.

Related Terms

• Nutritional Guidelines

References

• Dietary Reference Intakes Tables and Application: Recommended Dietary Allowances and Adequate Intakes, Elements
• Essential Nutrients: RDA and Adequate Intake