More than half of the world’s population does not get enough of essential nutrients such as calcium, iron and vitamins C and E. The revelation comes from a recent study by researchers at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, the University of California, Santa Barbara and the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN). investigation is the first to provide global estimates of deficiencies in 15 key micronutrients.
Micronutrient deficiencies, a common form of malnutrition, can lead to serious health problems, such as complications during pregnancy. pregnancyblindness and an increased risk of infections.
The study focuses on whether people around the world are getting enough of these nutrients, examining men and women of different age groups.
The research used data from a variety of sources, including the World Dietary Database and the World Bank, to assess populations in 185 countries. Seventeen age groups were analyzed, from newborns to people over 80 years of age, and intake of nutrients such as calcium, iodine, iron and vitamins was assessed.
Among the most important findings are high levels of deficiency in iodine (68% of the world’s population), vitamin E (67%), calcium (66%) and iron (65%). More than half of the world’s population also lacks sufficient riboflavin, folate and vitamins C and B6.
Women Women were more likely to have low levels of iodine, iron, and vitamin B12, while men were deficient in nutrients such as calcium, vitamin A, and zinc. Deficiencies can lead to a variety of diseases, including weak bones, anemia, skin disorders, a weakened immune system, and even depression. If you get sick often, it may indicate a weakened immune system.
The study authors highlighted the urgent need for public health interventions to improve global nutrition, especially among younger people aged 10 to 30 years, who are at particular risk of calcium deficiency in Asia and Africa. The researchers also acknowledged that more data at the individual level are needed to improve future findings.
Common food sources
Let’s examine the common food sources that can provide this critical element and point out any deficiencies that may arise.
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