How Climate-Caused Nutrient Loss Threatens Malnutrition

Across the globe, climate change is altering growing conditions for the crops that humans rely on for sustenance.

These changes are already having an impact on the nutrient levels in our food, and as a result, people are increasingly at risk of developing deficiencies in essential minerals and proteins.

According to health organizations, deficiencies in iodine, iron, folate, vitamin A, and zinc can have devastating consequences for billions of people.

Iodine deficiency, for instance, is the leading cause of preventable intellectual disability, and iron deficiency anemia contributes to around 20% of all maternal deaths.

What’s more, these deficiencies are often most prevalent in regions that are already food-insecure – meaning that as climate change continues to disrupt growing patterns, the problem is only likely to get worse.

There are a number of reasons why climate change could lead to reduced nutrient levels in crops. In this article, we will explore some of the main mechanisms by which this can happen, as well as the potential consequences for human health.

The Impact of Climate on Soil Nutrients

One way in which climate change can reduce crop nutrient levels is by affecting the nutrient content of the soil itself.

This is because different nutrients are required for plant growth at different temperatures, meaning that as the climate changes, the ideal ratio of nutrients in the soil will also change.

For example, higher temperatures tend to increase the rate of evaporation, which can lead to soil becoming more acidic and depleted of essential minerals.

On the other hand, floods can also leach nutrients out of the soil, leaving it unable to support plant growth.

In addition, as the climate changes, the types of plants that can grow in a particular area may also change. This is likely to have an impact on the nutrient composition of the soil, as different plants require different nutrients for growth.

For example, legumes are known to “fix” nitrogen in the soil – meaning they take nitrogen from the air and convert it into a form that other plants can use. If legumes are no longer able to grow in a particular area due to changes in the climate, this could lead to a decline in the soil’s nitrogen levels.

The Impact of Nutrient Reduction on Populations

As the nutrient content of food crops declines, so too does the nutritional value of the foods we eat. This can lead to deficiencies in essential minerals and nutrients, which can have a range of negative health effects.

For instance, iron deficiency anemia is thought to contribute to around 20% of all maternal deaths. In other instances, deficiencies can lead to cognitive impairments and intellectual disabilities.

What’s more, these deficiencies are often most prevalent in regions that are already food-insecure – meaning that as climate change continues to disrupt growing patterns, the problem is only likely to get worse.

In order to prevent the further spread of malnutrition, it is important to consider the potential impacts of climate change on crop nutrient levels and to take steps to mitigate the risks.

A Functional Medicine Approach to Nutrient Deficiencies

As populations continue to come under threat from climate-related nutrient loss, it is important to consider how best to protect the health of those most at risk.

A Functional Medicine approach would take into account the individual’s unique genetic makeup and biochemistry, as well as their exposure to environmental factors such as toxins, stress, and dietary patterns.

This comprehensive approach would then be used to develop a personalized treatment plan, which may include targeted nutritional supplementation, detoxification protocols, and stress-reduction strategies.

At Internal Healing and Wellness, Dr. Khan and his team work to identify and treat the underlying causes of disease, rather than simply masking symptoms with medication.

If you are concerned about the impact of climate change on your health or would like to learn more about how Functional Medicine can help, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Our team is ready to help you enjoy optimum health and wellness, whatever the future may hold. Contact us today to learn more.