Nutrient deficiency | Agriculture Optional Notes for UPSC PDF Download

Nutrient deficiency

Nutrition serves as the energy source necessary for carrying out all bodily processes. A well-balanced diet comprises both macro- and micronutrients. "Nutritional inadequacy" refers to an intake of nutrients below the estimated average requirement, while "nutritional deficiency" involves significantly reduced levels of one or more nutrients, impairing normal bodily functions and increasing the risk of diseases like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Malnutrition can stem from environmental factors such as food scarcity or health conditions like anorexia nervosa, fasting, swallowing difficulties, persistent vomiting, impaired digestion, intestinal malabsorption, or chronic diseases.

Nutritional biomarkers, such as serum or plasma levels of nutrients like folate, vitamin C, B vitamins, vitamin D, selenium, copper, and zinc, serve as tools for evaluating nutrient intake and dietary exposure. Deficiencies in macronutrients can lead to conditions like kwashiorkor, marasmus, ketosis, growth retardation, compromised wound healing, and increased susceptibility to infections. On the other hand, deficiencies in micronutrients such as iron, folate, zinc, iodine, and vitamin A can result in intellectual impairment, poor growth, perinatal complications, degenerative diseases associated with aging, and higher morbidity and mortality.

Preventing both macro- and micronutrient deficiencies is crucial, and this can be achieved through supplementation and food-based approaches.