Half the world suffers from nutritional deficiencies
Vitamins, minerals and trace elements: half of the world’s population does not have enough
To function at its best, our body needs a number of specific “ingredients”, the micronutrients. And, according to a recent study, half of the world’s population does not have enough.
What are micronutrients?
Micronutrients are substances present in small amounts in food, but essential for our body. Vitamins, minerals and trace elements such as iron, calcium, iodine, vitamin C and vitamin E are just a few examples. Each plays a crucial role in different body functions: from strengthening bones to producing energy, maintaining the immune system and regulating metabolism.
Why are they so important?
Micronutrient deficiencies can have very serious health consequences. In children, they can cause growth delays, while in adults they can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and some types of cancer. In addition, people with nutritional deficiencies are more susceptible to infection.
Who is at risk?
Not everyone is at equal risk of nutritional deficiencies. Some population groups are particularly vulnerable, such as:
- Women of childbearing age: Because of the blood loss during the menstrual cycle, women have a higher iron requirement
- Growing children: Children need a large amount of nutrients to support their growth and development
- Elderly: As we age, nutrient absorption may decrease
- People with medical conditions: Some diseases, such as chronic inflammatory bowel disease, can interfere with nutrient absorption
- Vegans and vegetarians: If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, you should pay special attention to meeting your requirements for certain micronutrients, such as vitamin B12 and iron
What causes nutritional deficiencies?
The causes of nutritional deficiencies are manifold and can vary from country to country. Among the main ones are:
- Poverty: People living in poverty often have limited access to healthy and varied food
- Malnutrition: Not only hunger, but also overeating can lead to deficiencies
- Poor soils: If the soil is nutrient-poor, even the plants growing on it will have less
- Climate change: Extreme weather events and droughts can reduce food production and increase prices
- Absorption problems: Some diseases can prevent the body from properly absorbing nutrients
How to solve the problem?
Tackling nutritional deficiencies requires a multidisciplinary approach involving governments, international organisations, farmers and consumers. Some of the possible solutions include:
• Diversify your diet: Consume a variety of foods, with a focus on fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains.
• Fortify foods: Add micronutrients to basic foods such as salt and flour.
• Dietary supplements: In some cases, supplements may be needed, but it is always best to consult a doctor.
• Food education: Teaching people to eat healthily is crucial to preventing nutritional deficiencies.
• Support sustainable agriculture: Promote agricultural practices that preserve soil fertility and ensure healthier and more sustainable food production