From the Guidelines
For an adolescent male in Tanner stage 4, a multivitamin should contain approximately 900 mcg vitamin A, 75 mg vitamin C, 15 mg vitamin E, 75 mcg vitamin K, 1.2 mg thiamin, 1.3 mg riboflavin, 16 mg niacin, 1.3 mg vitamin B6, 2.4 mcg vitamin B12, 400 mcg folate, 5 mg pantothenic acid, 25 mcg biotin, 890 mcg copper, 55 mcg selenium, and 11 mg zinc. These doses are based on the Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) recommendations for adolescents aged 14-18 years, as outlined in the study by 1. The recommended doses are tailored to support the rapid growth and development occurring during this pubertal stage, which is characterized by significant muscle mass development, continued bone growth, and advancing sexual maturation. Key considerations include:
- Vitamin A for vision, immune function, and skin health
- Vitamin C for immune function, collagen synthesis, and iron absorption
- Vitamin E for antioxidant functions and protection of cell membranes
- Vitamin K for blood clotting and bone health
- B vitamins (thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12) for energy metabolism, nervous system function, and red blood cell production
- Folate for red blood cell production and prevention of birth defects
- Pantothenic acid and biotin for energy metabolism and various metabolic processes
- Copper, selenium, and zinc for immune function, connective tissue health, and protein synthesis. It is essential to note that these recommendations may need adjustment based on individual factors such as activity level, specific health conditions, or dietary patterns, and to exercise caution not to exceed the Upper Limit (UL) for any nutrient when combining dietary intake and supplementation, as advised in the study by 1.
From the Research
Recommended Doses of Ingredients in a Multivitamin for an Adolescent Male in Tanner Stage 4
There are no specific studies that provide recommended doses of ingredients in a multivitamin for an adolescent male in Tanner stage 4. However, some studies provide information on the nutritional needs of adolescents and the composition of multivitamin/mineral products.
- The study 2 discusses the importance of dietary supplements in preventing micronutrient deficiencies, but does not provide specific recommendations for adolescent males in Tanner stage 4.
- The study 3 analyzes the composition of adult multivitamin/mineral products and compares them to Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs), but does not provide information on the nutritional needs of adolescent males in Tanner stage 4.
- The study 4 assesses pubertal maturity in boys using height and grip strength, but does not provide information on the nutritional needs of adolescent males in Tanner stage 4.
- The study 5 discusses testosterone replacement therapy in adolescent males, but does not provide information on the recommended doses of ingredients in a multivitamin.
- The study 6 assesses the nutritional value of daily food rations of children aged 1-4 years, but does not provide information on the nutritional needs of adolescent males in Tanner stage 4.
Nutritional Needs of Adolescent Males
Some studies suggest that adolescent males have different nutritional needs than adults, including:
- Higher requirements for energy, protein, and certain micronutrients such as calcium and vitamin D 5
- Different requirements for vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12 and iron 6
However, there is limited information available on the specific nutritional needs of adolescent males in Tanner stage 4, and more research is needed to determine the recommended doses of ingredients in a multivitamin for this population.