GLOSSARY

Daily Fat Intake Reference Table

US/Canadian AMDR for healthy adults, expressed as a percentage of total energy; athlete carbohydrate targets also require grams relative to body mass.

Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range (AMDR) A range of energy proportions from macronutrients associated with nutrient adequacy and reduced chronic-disease risk within the relevant reference system.

Dietary reference systems distinguish average requirements, recommended intakes, adequate intakes and upper limits. Their meaning depends on the authority, population, life stage and nutrient. An average requirement is intended to meet the needs of about half of a specified healthy group, whereas a recommended allowance covers nearly all. These are not interchangeable with food-label values. For an athlete, identify the reference system first, then consider whether training or clinical circumstances require an individualized assessment beyond that population framework.

An adequate intake is used when evidence is insufficient to establish an average requirement and a recommended allowance. Intake at or above that value can support a judgment of adequacy, but intake below it does not establish the probability of inadequacy. An upper intake level concerns risk of adverse effects, not an intake goal. Its scope may include all sources or only specified forms. Check the nutrient-specific definition before combining food, fortified products and supplements in an athlete's intake review.

For example, compare a supplement review with the nutrient-specific reference for the athlete's age and life stage. Identify whether the number is an average requirement, recommended intake or upper limit before calculating a gap. An intake below a recommended allowance is a reason to assess the pattern, not an automatic diagnosis of deficiency.