More than half of the world’s population is not consuming sufficient amounts of essential micronutrients, including calcium, iron, and vitamins C and E, according to new research. The study, conducted by the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition in collaboration with Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and UC Santa Barbara, highlights the widespread issue of inadequate nutrient intake.
“These findings are deeply concerning,” stated Ty Beal, senior technical specialist at the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition. “The data shows that across all regions, and across all income levels, the majority of people are not getting enough of multiple essential micronutrients. This deficiency is not just a health issue, but a barrier to human potential worldwide.”
The study analyzed global dietary data to assess the intake of 15 critical micronutrients: calcium, iodine, iron, riboflavin, folate, zinc, magnesium, selenium, thiamin, niacin, and vitamins A, B6, B12, C, and E. The results revealed significant gaps in nutrient consumption across the globe.
A staggering 68% of the world’s population is not consuming enough iodine, an element vital for thyroid hormone production, commonly found in seafood, eggs, and milk. Additionally, 67% of people have insufficient vitamin E intake, 66% lack adequate calcium, and 65% are deficient in iron.
The study found particularly low calcium consumption in North America, Europe, and Central Asia. Furthermore, more than half of the global population is not getting enough riboflavin, folate, and vitamins C and B6.
Among the 15 micronutrients studied, niacin was the closest to sufficient, with 22% of the population falling short. Thiamin and selenium deficiencies were also relatively lower, at 30% and 37% respectively.
Gender differences were also evident in the study. Women were more likely to be deficient in iodine, vitamin B12, iron, and selenium, while men showed lower intake of calcium, niacin, thiamin, zinc, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, and B6.
The research, published in The Lancet Global Health on Thursday, marks a significant advancement in understanding global micronutrient deficiencies. Co-lead author Chris Free, a research professor at UC Santa Barbara, noted, “This study is a major step forward, not only because it provides the first estimates of inadequate micronutrient intakes for 34 age and sex groups across nearly every country, but also because it makes these methods and results accessible to researchers and practitioners worldwide.”
Micronutrient deficiencies can lead to a range of health issues, including fatigue, bone pain, hair loss, and weakness. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss your diet and potential supplementation.
