Rationale: Vitamins are essential for adequate growth and development throughout life. However, limited information exists on the vitamin status in the European population of children and adolescents (CA). Furthermore, Swiss-specific reference values to determine vitamin status in CA are undefined.
Objectives: The VITAKIDS project aims to:
- systematically review existing literature on reference values for blood vitamin levels in European CA;
- define the vitamin intake and status of Swiss CA;
- study CA at higher risk of deficiencies or insufficiencies due to overweight, obesity, or plant-based diets, examining their vitamin intake and status, use of vitamin supplements, and cardiometabolic profile.
Data and methods: We will analyze published literature on the topic in Europe and use the existing menuCH-Kids data (www.menuchkids.ch). This survey measured in 2024-2025 socio-demographics, dietary intake, anthropometry, and markers of cardiometabolic health of a large population-based sample of CA aged between 6 and 17 years. Additionally, we will measure plasma levels of vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, and E of 800 CA (vitamins B9, B12, and 25(OH)D3 already measured) in 848 CA. We will then calculate the usual vitamin intake from two 24-hour dietary recalls and food supplements, define the Swiss population reference values for vitamin blood levels, and assess the prevalence of vitamin deficiencies, insufficiencies, and excesses, by sex, age group, weight status, and types of diets. Finally, we will disseminate our results using a participatory approach.
Relevance and impact: Our project will provide critical insights into the vitamin status of CA for health authorities, clinicians, and the public. It will deliver unprecedented scientific data to:
- guide targeted nutritional interventions (e.g. food fortification and supplementation);
- mitigate vitamin imbalances;
- promote optimal growth and development of Swiss CA.