ruokatarve

Ruokatarve is the amount of energy and nutrients a person needs to maintain health, support growth, and sustain normal metabolic functions. It covers both energy intake (calories or kilojoules) and essential macro- and micronutrients, including protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Because needs depend on context, there is no single fixed value for everyone.

The key determinants of ruokatarve include age, sex, body size, and physical activity, as well as life stage (such as pregnancy or lactation), health status, climate, and altitude. Energy requirements are influenced by activity level and basal metabolic rate, while nutrient requirements are guided by overall intake adequacy and the body's needs for maintenance, repair, and function.

Assessment and guidance typically rely on international and national frameworks such as Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs), including Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) or Adequate Intakes (AI) and Tolerable Upper Intake Levels (ULs). Practically, energy needs are estimated using formulas that approximate basal metabolic rate and activity factors, while nutrient needs are set to prevent deficiency and support health. These estimates are used to plan individual diets, hospital and school meals, nutrition labeling, and public health policies.

Ruokatarve is an estimate and can be adjusted for individual goals, health conditions, and life circumstances. It provides a framework for ensuring sufficient, balanced intake without excess.