Brief communication: The prevalence of high intake of vitamin E from the use of supplements among US adults

Background: People who consume at least 400 IU of vitamin E per day from supplements may be at slightly increased risk for premature mortality. Objective: To estimate the percentage of U.S. adults age 20 years or older who consume at least 400 IU of vitamin E per day through the use of vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. Design: Cross-sectional analysis. Setting: The 1999-2000 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Patients: Representative sample of the civilian, noninstitutionalized U.S. population. Measurements: Participants answered questions about the use of vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. Results: Among 4609 adults, 11.3% (95% CI, 9.7% to 13.1%) consumed at least 400 IU of vitamin E per day from supplements. Such intake increased with age, was about equal for men and women, and was more common among white persons (14.1%; CI, 11.9% to 16.7%) than African-American (3.7% [CI, 2.6% to 5.2%]) or Mexican-American persons (3.9% [CI, 2.8% to 5.4%]). The median dietary intake of vitamin E was 8.8 IU per day. Limitations: information about vitamin E intake was self-reported. Conclusions: The use of vitamin E supplements in dosages of at least 400 IU per day is common among U.S. adults.