Evaluation of the Dietary Reference Intakes for Japanese (2010 Edition): Recommended Protein, Pantothenic acid, Vitamin D, and Iron Intakes for Breast-Fed Infants Aged 6 - 11 Months

Objective: With regard to the 2010 edition of Dietary Reference Intakes for Japanese (DRIs-2010), we investigated whether the DRIs for two age groups, breast-fed infants aged 6 8 and 9 11 months, can be fulfilled for every nutrient in actual dietary practice. Design: We evaluated 1) whether the DRIs for all nutrients can be fulfilled in a formula with energy and protein exceeding their DRIs, 2) whether the DRIs for all nutrients can be fulfilled in a formula prepared in accordance with Japanese government-recommended weaning guidelines, and 3) what kinds of formulas can be prepared if the DRIs for all nutrients are fulfilled without referring to the weaning guidelines. Setting: Simulation of diet menu on the basis of published data in our university and survey of diet menu in a university hospital attached to a national medical school. Subjects: The three types of formulas were planned for ten days. Results: It was impossible to simultaneously fulfil the DRIs for 6 8-month-old infants concerning pantothenic acid, vitamin D, and iron and those for 9 11-month-old infants concerning these nutrients plus protein. Conclusion: According to the DRIs-2010, the DRI for all nutrients could not be fulfilled in an ingestible formula.