GLOSSARY

Suboptimal Intake Intake judged less suitable than a defined goal; the term requires an explicit criterion rather than an assumed universal optimum.

Assess adequacy using usual intake, an appropriate requirement distribution and the purpose of the assessment. A single day below a recommended allowance does not diagnose deficiency. Population estimates and decisions about an individual require different reasoning; some methods also rely on assumptions that do not hold for every nutrient. Intake ratios summarize a comparison, not absorption or clinical status. An apparently favorable average across nutrients can hide a serious shortfall in one, so retain the individual nutrient findings and relevant clinical context.

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.