Nutrition transition

Nutrition transition refers to the shift in dietary consumption and energy expenditure that coincides with economic, demographic, and epidemiological changes. Specifically, the term is often used to denote the transition from traditional diets high in cereal and fiber to more Western pattern diets high in sugars, fat, and animal-source food.

Overview

The nutrition transition is characterized by the global shift in diet towards an increased intake of foods high in energy-dense fats and sugars but low in complex carbohydrates. This shift, coupled with a sedentary lifestyle, has led to a global increase in obesity and diet-related non-communicable diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and certain types of cancer.

Stages of Nutrition Transition

The nutrition transition can be divided into five stages:

1. Hunting and Gathering - This stage is characterized by a diet high in fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and fish. Physical activity is high and obesity is rare.
2. Famine - This stage is characterized by a lack of food availability, leading to malnutrition and starvation.
3. Receding Famine - In this stage, food becomes more readily available, but diet quality is often poor. This stage is often associated with an increase in infectious diseases.
4. Nutrition-Related Non-Communicable Diseases (NR-NCDs) - This stage is characterized by an increase in diet-related non-communicable diseases such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.
5. Behavioral Change - This final stage is characterized by a shift towards healthier dietary and lifestyle choices, often in response to the health issues experienced in the previous stage.

Factors Influencing Nutrition Transition

Several factors influence the nutrition transition, including:

1. Urbanization - Urban living often leads to decreased physical activity and increased access to processed foods.
2. Globalization - Global trade and marketing influence dietary choices and food availability.
3. Income - Higher income levels often lead to increased consumption of processed foods and animal products.
4. Education - Education can influence dietary choices, with higher levels of education often associated with healthier dietary choices.

Health Implications

The nutrition transition has significant health implications, including an increase in obesity and diet-related non-communicable diseases. These health issues place a significant burden on healthcare systems and can have a negative impact on economic development.

See Also

• Dietary transition
• Epidemiological transition
• Demographic transition
• Globalization and disease

References

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