Why nutrition is a central component in health promotion.
Discuss why nutrition is a central component in health promotion. What are some of the nutritional challenges for emerging populations? What roles do nutritional deficiency and nutritional excess play in disease?
Sample Answer
Nutrition is a central component in health promotion because it provides the body with the essential nutrients it needs to function properly. A healthy diet can help to prevent a wide range of diseases, including heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes. It can also help to improve mental health, boost energy levels, and promote healthy growth and development.
Emerging populations face a number of nutritional challenges, including:
- Food insecurity: Food insecurity is the lack of reliable access to affordable, nutritious food. It is a major problem in many developing countries, but it is also on the rise in developed countries.
- Poverty: Poverty is a key risk factor for food insecurity and poor nutrition. People living in poverty may have difficulty affording nutritious food or may not have access to healthy food options.
- Cultural factors: Cultural factors can also influence nutrition. For example, some cultures may have a preference for processed foods or sugary drinks.
- Lack of education: People who lack access to nutrition education may not know how to make healthy food choices.