Overview

Dr. Viteri’s research focuses on the use of different iron compounds used as food fortificants or as supplements, as well as on the evaluation of the characteristics of specific foods selected because of their composition (contents of phytates and iron and other minerals), that makes them promising for the prevention of iron deficiency in populations at risk. The studies in this area include evaluations of iron bioavailability, metabolism and functional repercusions including its interactions with other minerals. The impact of iron deficiency and intake-induced excess on levels of oxidative stress and their detection is of special interest. He and his group have found that chelated iron compounds whose absorption is biologically well regulated offer special promise as food fortificants, and that intermittent iron supplement-ation, in synchrony with small intestinal mucosal cell turnover is efficacious, effective and safe. Currently, the use of preventive intermittent folic acid supplementation is being studied.

The studies being conducted by the group includes collaborations with other colleagues at CHORI as well as with other national and international research groups. Current studies include the utilization of chemical, biochemical, cell-culture techniques, in vivo animal interventions, and national and international human clinical and population research.

The group has developed new methods applicable for population studies that allow the detection of whole body oxidative stress and blood volume changes under different conditions; has improved the use of radioisotopes for studying absorption of iron and zinc in populations, and has provided the scientific basis for the effective and safe use of food fortification with chelated iron compounds as well as targeted intermittent iron supplementation for the control of iron deficiency of populations.