What does the acronym RDA stand for in nutritional context?

The acronym RDA stands for Recommended Dietary Allowance. This term is used in the context of nutrition to refer to the daily dietary intake level that is considered sufficient to meet the nutrient requirements of nearly all (97-98%) healthy individuals in a specific life stage and gender group. The RDA is established by health agencies and aims to serve as a guideline for nutritional intake to ensure optimal health and prevent deficiencies in the general population.

The RDA is determined based on scientific research and is updated periodically to reflect new findings in nutrition science. It provides a target for daily intake that can help individuals plan their diets to meet their health needs effectively.