NOTE: The table is reprinted with permission from the website of the Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences. The table is adapted from the DRI reports (see www.nap.edu). It represents recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) in bold type, adequate intakes (AIs) in ordinary type followed by an asterisk (*), and upper limits (ULs)^a. RDAs and AIs may both be used as goals for individual intake. RDAs are set to meet the needs of almost all 97% to 98% individuals in a group. For healthy breastfed infants, the AI is the mean intake. The AI for other life stage and gender groups is believed to cover the needs of all individuals in the group, but lack of data prevent being able to specify with confidence the percentage of individuals covered by this intake.

^aUL, The maximum level of daily nutrient intake that is likely to pose no risk of adverse effects. Unless otherwise specified, the UL represents total intake from food, water, and supplements. Due to lack of suitable data, ULs could not be established for vitamin K, thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin B₁₂, pantothenic acid, biotin, or carotenoids. In the absence of ULs, extra caution may be warranted in consuming levels above recommended intakes.

^bND, Not determinable due to lack of data of adverse effects in this age group and concern with regard to lack of ability to handle excess amounts. Source of intake should be from food only to prevent high levels of intake.