Nonsupplemented Children of Latino Immigrants Have Low Vitamin E Intakes and Plasma Concentrations and Normal Vitamin C, Selenium, and Carotenoid Intakes and Plasma Concentrations

ObjectiveThis study sought to determine and evaluate the intakes and plasma concentrations of vitamin E (α-tocopherol), γ-tocopherol, vitamin C, selenium, and carotenoids (α-carotene, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lutein/zeaxanthin, and lycopene) of nonsupplemented boys and girls, 4 to 8 years old, of Latino immigrants living in rural Nebraska.DesignDietary intakes of the Latino children were estimated. Their plasma samples (fasting) were analyzed for vitamin E, vitamin C, selenium, and carotenoid concentrations. Data were evaluated by sex.SubjectsThe subjects were a convenience sample of 4- to 8-year-old (n=29), apparently healthy, nonsupplemented children of Latino immigrants living in rural Nebraska.Statistical AnalysisSex differences in parameter values were determined using general linear models; Pearson r was used for determining correlations.ResultsNo significant differences in parameter values were observed by sex, with the exception of plasma lutein/zeaxanthin concentration. The majority (69%) had plasma vitamin E (α-tocopherol) concentrations <0.516 mg/dL (12 μmol/L), which is indicative of vitamin E inadequacy, and over half (59%) reported consuming less than the Estimated Average Requirement for vitamin E. All subjects had plasma vitamin C and selenium concentrations indicative of adequacy (>0.41 mg/dL or >23 μmol/L, and >6.32 μg/dL or >0.8 μmol/L, respectively), and consumed at least the Recommended Dietary Allowances for these nutrients. The plasma carotenoid concentrations of the children may be useful as norms.ConclusionsThese children of Latino immigrants who did not take supplements had low plasma vitamin E (α-tocopherol) concentrations but normal plasma vitamin C and selenium concentrations.ImplicationsDietetics professionals and others involved in health care need to work with Latino immigrant parents so that their children consume adequate amounts of vitamin E.