Some Key Terms In Nutrition: EAR And LRNI

Sometimes in nutrition you come across terms that sound like gobbledygook. They are however absolutely vital in defining key amounts of nutrients in research papers and in setting limits and values for intakes of vitamins, minerals and indeed any other nutrient important in the healthy functioning of our bodies. Here are two worth knowing:-

• EAR (Estimated Average Requirement)

The Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) is an estimate of the average requirement for
energy and for a nutrient. Approximately 50% of the population will need less energy or a
nutrient whilst 50% of the population will need more. It helps nutritionists set a value which is a necessary reference point.

• LRNI (Lower Reference Nutrient Intake)

The Lower Reference Nutrient Intake (LRNI) is the amount of a nutrient that is enough for
only the relatively small number of people who have low requirements (2.5%). The majority of the
population will need more of a nutrient.