A global study reveals that over half of the world’s population lacks adequate levels of essential micronutrients, such as calcium, iron, and vitamins C and E. This research, led by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, UC Santa Barbara (UCSB), and the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), is the first to estimate global deficiencies in 15 key vitamins and minerals.
Published in The Lancet Global Health on 29 August, the study highlights the severe health impacts of these deficiencies. They contribute to weakened immunity, developmental delays, blindness, and complications during pregnancy.
Why Are Micronutrient Deficiencies a Global Concern?
Micronutrients are essential for maintaining health, yet deficiencies are among the most common forms of malnutrition globally. Unlike macronutrients (such as proteins, fats, and carbohydrates), micronutrients are needed in small amounts but play vital roles in functions like immunity, energy production, and bone health.
This study evaluated dietary intakes across 185 countries, using data from the Global Dietary Database, the World Bank, and dietary recall surveys. Researchers assessed 15 key vitamins and minerals, including calcium, iodine, iron, zinc, magnesium, selenium, riboflavin, folate, and vitamins A, B6, B12, C, and E.
The findings reveal significant inadequacies for nearly all the micronutrients studied, with iodine, vitamin E, calcium, and iron showing the highest global deficiencies:
- Iodine (required to produce thyroid hormones): Inadequate for 68% of the global population.
- Vitamin E: 67% of people do not meet the recommended intake.
- Calcium: Insufficient for 66%.
- Iron: 65% consume inadequate levels.
Other key nutrients, such as riboflavin, folate, and vitamins C and B6, were also consumed inadequately by more than half of the population.
Gender and Age Disparities in Micronutrient Intake
The study highlights significant differences in nutrient intake between men and women, as well as across age groups:
- Women are more likely to lack iodine, vitamin B12, iron, and selenium.
- Men are more likely to have deficiencies in calcium, zinc, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, and B6.
- Young adults aged 10–30 are particularly vulnerable, especially to calcium deficiencies. Low intakes were observed in South and East Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and even in higher-income regions like North America and Europe.
The Global Impact of Micronutrient Deficiencies
Micronutrient deficiencies pose a silent but significant risk to public health. They weaken immune systems, hinder cognitive development, and increase infection susceptibility. “These gaps in micronutrient intake, affecting populations across all income levels, limit global human potential and health outcomes," says Chris Free, co-lead author and research professor at UCSB. While the study provides valuable insights, researchers note some limitations. Gaps in global dietary data may have affected the findings. The actual extent of deficiencies could be even larger.
Addressing the Micronutrient Challenge
The researchers have made their data and analysis methods publicly available to policymakers, healthcare professionals, and public health experts to help address these deficiencies. Addressing these gaps requires both awareness and actionable solutions, such as fortification programmes, dietary diversification, and education about nutrient-rich diets.
Explore More for Health Solutions
Micronutrient deficiencies can be addressed with the right choices. If you’re looking for high-quality supplements to support your health, visit our All Products Page to find the right solution for you. Or, if you’d like to read more about health and wellness, check out our Health News & Info Page.
References:
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. "Billions worldwide consume inadequate levels of micronutrients critical to human health. ScienceDaily. 29 August 2024.