Lecture Notes: Global Dietary Micronutrient Inadequacies

Introduction

Micronutrients: more complex to track than macronutrients (proteins, fats, carbs)
29 essential micronutrients
Deficiencies can go unnoticed until serious health issues arise

Primary cause: insufficient intake of vitamins/minerals
Different deficiencies lead to specific health issues
- Example: Iron deficiency leads to anemia, affects neurotransmitter formation and cognition
Global estimates:
- 1 in 2 children under 5 are deficient in iron, zinc, or vitamin A
- 2 in 3 women aged 15-49 are deficient in iron, zinc, or folate (vitamin B9)

Conducted by Harvard School of Public Health, UC Santa Barbara, and Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition
Over 5 billion people globally not consuming enough of at least three nutrients
68% lack iodine, 67% lack vitamin E, 66% lack calcium
More than 4 billion people lack enough iron, riboflavin (B2), folate, or vitamin C
Gender differences in deficiencies:
- Women: more affected by iodine, B12, iron, selenium
- Men: more affected by magnesium, B6, zinc, vitamin C, vitamin A

Did not account for supplements or fortified food intake
Potential overestimation of deficiencies, e.g., iodine due to iodized salt consumption
Did not consider nutrient-nutrient interactions affecting absorption

Consider individual risk factors: sex, age, socioeconomic status, and geography
Prevention tips:
- Seek professional biomarker testing if possible
- Diversify diet, include fortified foods
- Consider supplementation if necessary

Micronutrient deficiencies are a global public health concern
Awareness and individual action can help mitigate risks
Importance of personalizing nutrient intake strategies based on individual circumstances
Encourage sharing information to raise awareness