OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate vitamin K intake by healthy adults and elderly. METHODS: A cross-sectional study included 173 subjects of both genders. The habitual intake of each participant was determined by three non-consecutive 24-hour recalls. Intra- and interpersonal variability was determined by the software PC-SIDE. RESULTS: The mean and median vitamin K intakes of the sample were 110.7mg/day and 99mg/day, respectively. The elderly presented higher intakes, with a median intake of 104mg/day. Adult and elderly vitamin K intakes were statistically different (p=0.00) and consumption of vegetables was strongly correlated with total vitamin K intake. CONCLUSION: Regardless of age and gender, vitamin K intake was inadequate in nearly half the sample, which may cause an increased risk of dietary inadequacy, possibly leading to bone disorders and/or exacerbation of those already present in the elderly.
Adults; Food consumption; Aged; Eating; Osteoporosis; Vitamin K