| The influence of iron intakes and intestinal parasitic infections on iron status was investigated in 50 beninese adolescents boarding at the school, and 50 adolescents living at home. While 73% of adolescents met the recommendations for dietary iron intake, only 27% had estimated absorbable iron intake above the average requirement for absorbed iron. Also, 43% of subjects were anemic, 13% suffered from iron deficiency anemia, and 14% had iron deficiency. The girls boarding at the school had a higher intake for energy and for the majority of nutrients compared with girls living with their family. They also had a better iron nutritional status. No significant association was observed between intestinal parasitic infections and indicators of iron status. On the contrary, significant associations were observed between biochemical indicators of iron status and total iron intake (including iron supplements). Finally, the majority of the subjects had dietary intakes below recommendations and a low absorbable iron. |
