The ICMR-NIN (2020) revised Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) for a sedentary adult Indian man includes protein at 0.83 g/kg/day. This figure represents which specific concept?
- A Minimum protein needed to prevent nitrogen equilibrium
- B Safe level of protein intake covering 97.5% of the population's needs ✓
- C Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) for protein
- D Upper tolerable intake level of protein
Correct answer: B. Safe level of protein intake covering 97.5% of the population's needs
Explanation
The RDA is defined as the EAR + 2SD, covering the needs of 97.5% of the population — it is the 'safe level of intake.' For protein, the ICMR-NIN 2020 report sets EAR at ~0.62 g/kg/day and RDA at 0.83 g/kg/day for sedentary adults, representing the safe level. The upper tolerable level is a separate concept related to adverse effects of excess intake.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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