A study published in The Lancet Global Health journal says that people in India are not consuming enough essential micronutrients like iron, calcium and folate. This study estimated the intake of 15 micronutrients in 185 countries, based on a diet without supplements. This research was led by researchers from Harvard University.
Micronutrients
- About Micronutrients: Micronutrients include vitamins and minerals required by the body in very small amounts. E.g., Iron, Vitamin A, Iodine etc.
- They are crucial for producing enzymes, hormones, and other substances necessary for normal growth and development.
Impact of Micronutrient Deficiencies
- Severe Conditions: Deficiencies in micronutrients can lead to serious health issues, particularly in children and pregnant women. E.g., Anaemia.
- General Health: Lack of micronutrients can cause less visible but significant health problems such as reduced energy levels, mental clarity, and overall capacity.
- Long-Term Effects: These deficiencies can impact educational outcomes, work productivity, and increase susceptibility to other diseases and health conditions.
Types
Undernutrition
- Wasting: Low weight-for-height is known as wasting. It occurs when a person has not had enough food to eat and/or they have had an infectious disease.
- Stunting: Low height-for-age is known as stunting. It often occurs due to insufficient calorie intake, leading to a low weight for a given height.
- Underweight: Children with low weight-for-age are known as underweight. A child who is underweight may be stunted, wasted, or both.
Micronutrient-related Malnutrition
- Vitamin A Deficiency: Insufficient intake of vitamin A can lead to vision impairment, weakened immunity, and other health issues.
- Iron Deficiency: Causes anaemia, impacting the body’s ability to transport oxygen, leading to fatigue and weakness.
- Iodine Deficiency: Results in thyroid-related disorders, affecting growth and cognitive development.
- Obesity: Excessive calorie intake, often coupled with a sedentary lifestyle, can lead to obesity. It is characterised by an accumulation of excess body fat, posing health risks like cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.In adults, overweight is defined as a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 25 or more, whereas obesity is a BMI of 30 or more.
- Diet-related Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs): It encompasses cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes, often associated with high blood pressure, primarily stemming from unhealthy diets and inadequate nutrition.