what is the term for the maximum daily intake amounts of nutrients that are not likely to cause adverse health effects in almost all individuals in a life-stage group?

what is the term for the maximum daily intake amounts of nutrients that are not likely to cause adverse health effects in almost all individuals in a life-stage group?

2 hours ago 2
Nature

The term for the maximum daily intake amounts of nutrients that are not likely to cause adverse health effects in almost all individuals in a life-stage group is the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL). The UL represents the highest level of total chronic intake of a nutrient from all sources that is judged to be unlikely to pose a risk of adverse health effects in humans

. It is a science-based reference value used to manage the risks of excessive nutrient intake and is specific to different life-stage groups, including considerations of age, sex, and pregnancy status

. Importantly, the UL is not a recommended intake level but rather a threshold to help prevent potential toxicity or harm from excessive consumption. Intakes above the UL increase the risk of adverse effects, while intakes below the UL are considered safe for nearly all individuals in the specified group

. This concept has been developed and refined by organizations such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the Institute of Medicine (IOM), and it applies to vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients

. In summary:

  • Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) = Maximum daily intake unlikely to cause harm in almost all individuals of a life-stage group.
  • Applies to total intake from food, supplements, and other sources.
  • Not a recommended intake, but a safety threshold.
  • Risk of adverse effects increases above the UL.
  • Varies by nutrient, age, sex, and physiological status (e.g., pregnancy).

This definition and usage are consistent across major health authorities and dietary reference frameworks

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