Most of the world is falling short when it comes to ingesting vital nutrients. A recent study reveals that over half of the global population is not consuming enough micronutrients that are essential, including calcium, iron, and vitamins C and E. The consequences of these deficiencies might be severe and have a strong impact on our overall health.
“Most people —even more than previously thought, across all regions and countries of all incomes— are not consuming enough of multiple essential micronutrients”, said Ty Beal, a senior technical specialist at the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition. This research was conducted in collaboration with the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and UC Santa Barbara. Let’s review its main points.
Key findings: The nutrients we’re missing
The study analyzed the global consumption of 15 essential micronutrients, uncovering significant gaps. Here’s what they found:
- Iodine: A staggering 68% of the world’s population isn’t getting enough iodine, critical for thyroid function. Some of the main sources of this nutrient include seafood, eggs, and milk.
- Vitamin E: Nearly 67% of people have insufficient intake of this antioxidant, found in nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils.
- Calcium: About 66% of the population doesn’t meet their calcium needs, vital for strong bones and teeth. Dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods are key sources.
- Iron: Essential for red blood cell production, iron is lacking in 65% of diets globally. Red meat, beans, and fortified cereals can help to add this nutrient to our diets.
Other deficiencies include riboflavin, folate, and vitamins C and B6, with over half of the population not consuming enough of these. On the brighter side, niacin and thiamin deficiencies were less common, affecting 22% and 30% of people, respectively.
The study also revealed disparities across regions and genders. For example, calcium intake was especially low in North America, Europe, and Central Asia. Women had worse deficiencies in iodine, vitamin B12, iron, and selenium, while men struggled more with calcium, niacin, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and B6.
Micronutrients play a critical role in immune function, energy production, and overall well-being. Ignoring these gaps could lead to serious health issues, such as weakened immunity, fatigue, and even chronic diseases. However, we can make a difference by adding nutrient-dense foods like leafy greens, nuts, seafood, and fortified products to our meals. Supplements may also be an option, but it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional first.
The findings of this study should be taken as a wake-up call. Nutritional gaps aren’t just a problem for low-income countries; they affect us all. By being mindful of what we eat and making smarter food choices, we can take action toward better nutrition. Evaluate your diet, identify deficiencies, and start improving your health one step at a time.