Distribution of the serum concentration of beta-carotene, retinol and alpha-tocopherol in a representative sample of the adult population of Catalonia (Spain)

Some vitamins (beta-carotene, retinol and alpha-tocopherol) have been used in the prevention of neurovegetative diseases, immunodeficiencies and cancer because of the possible relation with the etiology and physiopathology of these disorders. Nevertheless, the serum values of such micronutrients in the population have not been described. The purpose of this study was to determine the serum concentrations of beta-carotene, retinol and alpha-tocopherol in the Catalan population and to examine the prevalence of deficits. We studied 343 individuals from a representative sample of individuals aged 18 to 75 years who had participated in the Nutritional Status of the Catalan Population (Spain) 1992-1993 study. Serum concentrations of beta-carotene, retinol and alpha-tocopherol were analysed. The serum concentration of beta-carotene was 0.39 and 0.49 micromol/l in men and women, respectively, and the prevalence of deficits was 62% in men and 54% in women. The serum concentration of retinol was lower in women (1.68 mol/l) than in men (1.98 mol/l) but no deficit was detected for this vitamin. 12% of women aged 18 to 34 years showed a marginal deficit of alpha-tocopherol. Our study reveals good nutritional status of retinol and alpha-tocopherol in the sample studied. However, a high prevalence of suboptimal concentrations of beta-carotene was detected, which should be corrected increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables.