The recent study titled ‘Inadequate zinc intake in India: Past, Present and Future’ from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health has indicated a growing public health concern. According to the study, escalating levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere are resulting in a decline in zinc content present in a range of essential food crops. This includes staples such as wheat, rice, barley, soya, and field peas, which billions globally depend on for their dietary zinc intake. Under open field conditions, these crops have demonstrated lower concentrations of zinc, among other vital nutrients.
Increasing Inadequacy of Zinc Intake in India
Corroborating decades-long observations, the study presents that inadequate zinc intake is a rising trend in India, causing tens of millions of individuals to develop zinc deficiency. The most alarming rates of insufficient zinc intake have been documented primarily in the southern and northeastern Indian states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Manipur, and Meghalaya, where the diet is dominated by rice. Between 1983 and 2012, the national level of inadequate zinc intake escalated from 17% to 25%.
The forthcoming rise in carbon dioxide levels could further exacerbate this situation. Alongside, changing dietary habits and an aging population also contribute towards the increasing zinc insufficiency.
Zinc Deficiency’s Impact on Urban Populations
Urban populations, especially affluent groups, are exhibiting higher instances of inadequate zinc intake. This is attributed to their consumption of higher proportions of nutrient-poor fats and sugars.
Zinc’s Importance in Human Health
Zinc is an indispensable mineral for human health. Estimated to aid around 100 enzymes in performing their functions, zinc boosts immune function, aids cell division, maintains our sense of smell and taste, promotes wound healing, and supports growth and development. This makes it essential for pregnant women and growing children.
Since the human body doesn’t store zinc, consistent intake through food is crucial to prevent deficiency. Inadequate zinc levels can have severe health repercussions, especially for young children who are more vulnerable to diseases like malaria, diarrhoeal diseases, and pneumonia if they are deficient in zinc.
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Zinc’s Role | Supports 100 enzymes, boosts immune function, aids cell division, maintains senses of smell and taste, promotes wound healing, supports growth and development |
| Zinc Deficiency Risk | Increase in diseases like malaria, diarrheal diseases, and pneumonia. |
| Rising Trend | National inadequate zinc intake increased from 17% to 25% between 1983 and 2012 |
Countering Zinc Deficiency: National Grain Fortification Programmes
National grain fortification programmes, augmentation of dietary diversity, bio-fortified crops, and reduced carbon dioxide emissions can help slow or reverse the rising trend of zinc insufficiency.
Role of Food Fortification
Food fortification refers to the practice of adding essential micronutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, to staple foods to enhance their nutritional value. It is an effective strategy to cater to the nutritional needs of various segments of society, including the poor, underprivileged, and vulnerable groups like pregnant women and young children.
Vanaspati fortification with Vitamins A and D has been mandatory in India since 1953. The success of the salt iodization programme underlines the potential of food fortification. India introduced salt iodization through the National Goiter Control Programme in 1962, it gained momentum in the 1980s, and mandated the distribution of iodized salt in 1997. Voluntary wheat flour fortification was notified in the 1970s.