folate RDIs

Question
Hi,
I would like to ask what the pupose is of a recommeded daily intake (RDI) with reference to folate in people over 70 yers age? Also how does a particular country go about setting an RDI/RDA?

I know all about folate in pregnant women but what would be the main concerns of a low folate level in people over 70, is it to do with dementia and homocysteine?

Thanks for your help,

Marco

Answer
Hello Marco!

  Thank you for your nutrition questions.  An elderly person not getting the proper RDI for folate may possibly develop symptoms of dementia and heart disease according to researchers.  The  RDI's for the US. and other countries are developed to help people get the level of intake of essential nutrients considered adequate to meet the needs of practically all healthy people.

 It has been well documented that folate deficiency can, and does lead to markedly elevated levels of homocysteine which, in turn, increases the risk potential of coronary heart disease.  This is one reason the elderly should make sure to eat foods such as dark leafy vegetables and take a folate supplement. The RDI for folate for people over 50 years of age is 400mcg.

  The possible relationship between low folate intake and mental disorders such as dementia continues to suggest that folate deficiency can be linked to mood disorders and other changes in mental function. However, this relationship is often difficult to assess due to similar effects reported for vitamin B12 deficiency, and potential masking effect each of these has upon the other. This is not to suggest that folate supplementation functions as a mood enhancer, only that certain biochemical processes required for proper neurological function are folate dependent. The direct relationship between this vitamin and normal mental function is difficult to assess at best, and a great deal more work in this area will likely be forthcoming.  

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