"Deficiency of Calcium and Iron Among Indians"
UV INDIA NEWS: More than half of the world's population, including India, is not consuming sufficient essential nutrients like vitamins, calcium, and iron. A recent study by The Lancet Global Health found that almost 70% of the world's population does not get enough vitamin E and calcium from their diet. The study also highlighted that Indians, like many others worldwide, suffer from deficiencies in iron, calcium, folate, and other essential nutrients.
Key Findings:
- Iron Deficiency: This is a leading cause of anaemia, particularly affecting pregnant women, which can have a lasting impact on the child's health.
- Calcium Deficiency: This severely affects children, impacting bone health and overall growth.
- Vitamin A and Zinc play crucial roles in immune function, and deficiencies can lead to weakened immunity.
- Iodine Deficiency: Essential for brain development, iodine is essential for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
The study found that 185 countries, including India, showed insufficient intake of 15 essential micronutrients. In India, iron and calcium deficiencies are significantly higher among women than men. This alarming nutritional gap affects 70% of the world's population, highlighting a global need for improved dietary intake.
The study suggests that addressing these deficiencies requires urgent attention, especially in vulnerable groups like children, pregnant women, and those with limited access to nutrient-rich foods. Enhanced dietary guidelines and public health initiatives are needed to ensure that populations receive the essential nutrients for overall health and well-being.