Changes in Nutrient Intake in the Adult Population of the Slovak Republic

Major changes in social and economic conditions occurred in Slovak Republic in the last decade. Since these factors influence food choice to a great extent, changes in nutrient intake of the population were expected. Epidemiological studies focused on dietary habits of the adult Slovak population were conducted in 1991–1994 and 1995–1999. Dietary data were obtained from randomly selected 4018 subjects aged 19–80 years by a single 24-h dietary recall. Calculation of nutrient content was based on Slovak food composition database. Despite a decrease protein and fat intakes still exceed recommendations. Saturated fatty acids prevail; consumption of linoleic acid also approaches the upper limit of recommended values. On the opposite, α -linolenic acid content in food is low. Dietary fibre intake increased; however, it does not meet the recommended dietary allowance. A significant increase in the consumption of calcium, vitamin C and folate, as well as that of copper and vitamin B6 in females was found, however, vitamin and mineral intake is generally lower than the recommendation except that of iron, folate, vitamin A and vitamin E in males. In recent years only slight, but generally desirable changes in food habits of the Slovak population were observed.