People across all age groups in India, both men and women, are consuming inadequate amounts of micronutrients critical for health, including iron, calcium and folate, reveals a study published in The Lancet Global Health journal.
The research, involving an international team including Harvard University scholars, reveals significant gaps in the intake of essential nutrients such as iron, calcium, and folate.
In India, the study found notable gender disparities in micronutrient deficiencies. The study said that more women are consuming insufficient iodine compared to men. Additionally, women are more likely to have inadequate levels of iodine, vitamin B12, and iron. Men, on the other hand, are more likely to have inadequate levels of zinc, magnesium, vitamin B6, and vitamin C.
GLOBAL MICRONUTRIENT DEFICIENCIES
The study estimates that nearly 70 percent of the global population, over five billion people, are not consuming adequate amounts of key micronutrients like iodine, vitamin E, and calcium. This research, the first of its kind to analyze 15 micronutrients across 185 countries, underscores a widespread issue in nutrient intake.
REGIONAL AND DEMOGRAPHIC INSIGHTS
Men and women aged 10-30 years are particularly prone to low calcium intake, with significant deficiencies reported in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and sub-Saharan Africa. The study highlights the urgency of addressing these deficiencies through targeted dietary interventions.
The researchers utilized publicly available data from the Global Dietary Database to estimate nutrient intake across 99.3 percent of the global population. The study did not account for the intake of fortified foods or supplements, which may lead to an overestimate of deficiencies in regions with high consumption of such products.
IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH
The findings are expected to aid health professionals in identifying and addressing populations in need of dietary improvements. With National Nutrition Week in India approaching (1-7 September), the study provides crucial insights into the nutritional challenges facing the country and emphasizes the need for enhanced awareness and intervention strategies.
The study published in The Lancet Global Health reveals significant micronutrient deficiencies in India, with notable gender and age-related disparities. As National Nutrition Week approaches, the findings call for targeted efforts to improve micronutrient intake and address the nutritional needs of the population.
