toitevajadus

Toitevajadus is a term used in Estonian nutrition literature to describe the nutritional requirements of an individual—the minimal amounts of energy and nutrients necessary to maintain health, support growth and activity, and prevent deficiencies. It encompasses both energy needs and micronutrient needs and is expressed through dietary reference values used to plan diets and inform nutrition policy.

The concept varies with age, sex, body size, activity level, climate, health status, and life stage. Children, adolescents, adults, and older people have different requirements, and specific periods such as pregnancy, lactation, illness, or recovery can alter needs substantially. The goal of identifying toitevajadus is to ensure adequate intake without excess.

Estimating toitevajadus relies on models of energy expenditure and nutrient requirements. Authorities publish dietary reference values or guidelines that translate biological needs into practical targets, such as recommended daily allowances or adequate intakes. These values are used to calculate energy budgets, assess diet quality, and guide food fortification and labeling. Actual intake can differ from recommended levels due to food availability, personal choices, and metabolism.

Applications of the concept include planning balanced individual diets, evaluating population nutrition, informing public health strategies, and supporting clinical nutrition decisions. While the term is commonly used in Estonian nutrition discourse, it aligns with international concepts of dietary reference values and energy and nutrient requirements used worldwide.